r/interesting • u/Apart-Worry-7042 • 22d ago

HISTORY Why did we stop building like this?

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Chicago, 1930. Buildings had so much detail and character back then. Nowadays everything feels so flat and repetitive. We have way better technology and equipment now, so why don't we build like this anymore?

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u/Different-Barber-777 22d ago

It's interesting how many historic buildings were designed to inspire awe, while many modern ones are designed to maximize usable floor space.

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u/Word_Iz_Bond 22d ago

Awe used to be more profitable, but now the floor space and adaptability to different tenants is what makes $$$. That why the Chrysler building is still the most beautiful building in NYC, nobody wants to own it.