This survey focuses on architecturally significant non-residential suburban Chicago buildings dating from 1935 to 1975—a period commonly referred to as the “recent past.” Approximately 4,100 commercial, institutional, office and religious structures have been identified in more than 53 communities throughout Cook County, Illinois. The survey has been conducted annually by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s (SAIC) Graduate Program in Historic Preservation since 2006.
The Recent Past Survey of Suburban Cook County does not include residential structures due to time constraints and the fact that detailed residential surveys are more appropriately carried out by local governments. It is not conducted in association with any local governments. Consequently, inclusion in the survey does not indicate local protection or recognition. The survey was initiated by Jim Peters, AICP, adjunct professor at SAIC and a former Landmarks Illinois staff member. Subsequent surveys have been supervised by architects, planners and other professionals with survey experience.
Explore the Recent Past Survey of Suburban Cook County
