The International style was developed in the 1920s by European architects in search of a style suitable for a modern society. Many American architects learned of the style through an influential exhibit in 1932, at New York City's Museum of Modern Art. There are few pre-World War II examples in Chicago--most were built after 1950--although a handful can be found in Hyde Park, South Shore, and West Town. Common characteristics are:
- horizontal proportions
- emphasis on broad, flat walls
- lack of ornament
- windows wrapping around corners
- flat roofs
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