The Art Institute Show me a map! Go to the Art Institute website. Where is it located? Why was it built? What does this beautiful building look like? Who designed it? Other interesting facts               Where is it located? This famous building is located on Michigan Avenue at the intersection of Adams Street. Return to Top     Why was it built? The Art Institute was built in conjunction with the Columbian Exposition of 1893.  Return to Top     What does this beautiful building look like? It is very symmetrical and has classical decorative elements. The Art Institute also has two lions at the front of the building, which are a little bit different from each other. One of the lions represents strength, and another represents majesty. Over the past century, many additions have been constructed. There are now gardens on the south side, which are very pretty.  Return to Top     Who designed it? This great building was designed by the architectural firm of Shelpy, Rutan, and Coolidge.  Return to Top     Other interesting facts: The Art Institute was originally called the Allerton Building. There have been many expansions and changes from 1901 to 1988.   Return to Top    BUILDINGS | ARCHITECTS | BASICS | GAMES | LINKS | BIBLIOGRAPHY | ABOUT US | EMAIL | HOME