Raymond Hood

Happy Birthday Raymond Hood!! The American architect was born in 1881and contributed innovative, modern designs to American architecture during the years 1922-1935. In 1922 he and John Howells won an international design contest for the Chicago Tribune Tower. He was the principal architect for the famed Rockefeller Center in New York City. The Rockefeller family financed the group of 15 Art Deco style buildings. The project began in 1930 and was completed by 1939. Soaring towers surrounded by lower buildings as well as open spaces emphasizes the drama of the group of structures. The walls are without decorative elements but seem to be protective sheaths instead of support for the skyscrapers. It is said to be the largest collection of skyscrapers built on a common theme. The picture below gives a nice group shot from a dramatic vantage point.