Vernacular architecture is architecture that uses local materials and traditional techniques to construct buildings without the guidance of licensed architects. It is surprisingly common in the United States despite the country's young age, including in cities like Chicago. This week the boys are joined by Will Quam, the founder of walking tour company Brick of Chicago, to discuss Chicago's rich vernacular traditions and building types. Amongst other things they discuss how the Great Chicago Fire led to the proliferation of brick architecture throughout the city, how Chicago produced over a billion common bricks per year at the peak of brick production, how many of the city's two and three flats were built using "plan books,"  and how the city has a "bungalow belt" of bungalow homes that were built in the 1920s. 

Links:

Brick of Chicago website - https://www.brickofchicago.com/ 

Brick of Chicago - Instagram Page

Architecture Without Architects by Rusofsky Bernard

Vernacular Architecture by Henry Glassie

Out of the Loop: Chicago Vernacular Architecture Forum

Chicago Vernacular Architecture

The Chicago Workers Cottage Initiative

Are Two-Flats Only A Chicago Thing? Why These Uniquely Chicago Homes Have Thrived For A Century by Kelly Bauer

How bungalow-y is the Bungalow Belt? by Daniel Kay Hertz

After design competition, architect will get to build vision for new Chicago two-flat by Sara Freund

Even the Moon Has a Dark Side: A Critical Look at Vernacular Architecture by Sanjoy Mazumdar

Artwork:

Provided by Will Quam

4/28/2025