Last Updated on June 28, 2023
Americans are well-known for their visually impressive, highly durable structures ranging from towering skyscrapers to steel buildings that can withstand the harshest weather conditions. Architecture is to be admired across many states in the USA, so here are 5 iconic buildings built by Americans.
1. The Empire State Building
Towering 102-stories over Midtown Manhattan in New York City, the Empire State Building is one of the world’s most-loved constructions – despite being initially written off as a flop – standing at an incredible 1,454-feet tall. It was designed by Shreve, Lamb and Harmon, completed in 1931 and is the 45th tallest building on the planet.
While Richmond Harold Shreve was a Canadian administrator from Nova Scotia, William Lamb was from Brooklyn and Harmon came from Chicago, Illinois.
2. Cadet Chapel
The Cadet Chapel is not only the most recognized symbol of the U.S. Air Force Academy but also the most visited manmade attraction in Colorado. Featuring 17 spires that reach 150-feet into the sky, this iconic structure dominates the skyline and is made from materials including aluminum, glass, and steel.
Considered one of the most visually stunning examples of modern American architecture, the Cadet Chapel was designed by Walter Netsch of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP of Chicago. Construction credit goes to Robert E. McKee, Inc., of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
3. Wilshire Grand Center
A 1,100-foot skyscraper in Los Angeles’ bustling Financial District, the Wilshire Grand Center is an incredible focal point for passers-by. It’s currently the tallest building in Los Angeles as well as California and is the 11th tallest building in the United States. The building has many uses containing a hotel, shopping mall, offices, observation decks and more.
The original hotel, dating back to 1952, welcomed guests including President John F. Kennedy and Pope John Paul II. The current design of the Wilshire Grand Center was prepared by Los Angeles-based architectural firm, A.C. Martin Partners.
4. Willis Tower
A masterpiece of Fazlur Rahman, Willis Tower is a 1450-foot skyscraper looking over Chicago, Illinois. Completed in 1973, this iconic structure was once the tallest building in the world and is currently the third tallest building in the United States.
As the 23rd tallest building in the world, the Willis Tower is certainly one of America’s most popular tourist destinations – especially for The Ledge on the Skydeck – and the home of well-known tenants such as American Airlines.
5. Thorncrown Chapel
Every state in America has a building they can be proud of with the Thorncrown Chapel being one of Eureka Spring’s jewels. Located in Arkansas and built by Arkansan Jim Reed, this iconic glass and wood building was completed in 1980 and was named the 1981 American Institute of Architects Design of the Year.
Throwcrown Chapel came into the spotlight again in 2006 when it was given the Twenty-Five Year Award by the same organization.
America is not short of iconic buildings build by prolific architects making the skyline both beautiful and interesting.