The Chateauesque style became fashionable in the 1880s due to the influence of New York City's famed Vanderbilt mansion (1879, Richard Morris Hunt). The style, which was based on 16th century French chateaux, was initially used in Chicago for the mansions of the city's social elite, on such South Side streets as Prairie Avenue. It later became popular for smaller houses throughout Chicago. Common characteristics are:
- vertical proportions
- massive-looking masonry walls
- mix of "Gothic" and "Renaissance" ornament
- high-peaked hipped roofs, elaborate dormers, and tall chimneys
Chateauesque Style Landmarks
- McGill House
- Elam House
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