Root, John Wellborn (1850-1891), was one of the most important architects of the Chicago School. The school was an influential group of architects trained in Chicago during the late 1800’s. Root became a leader in the aesthetic and technical development of modern office skyscrapers.
Root gained acclaim for the skyscrapers he designed in Chicago with Daniel Hudson Burnham. The two formed a famous partnership in 1873. Their first important project was the 10-story Montauk Block office building (1881-1882). One of their most influential designs was the Rookery office building (1885-1888). Root designed the structure to resemble a hollow square. Masonry walls supported the exterior while the walls around an interior court were supported by a light iron frame. Root’s Rand McNally building (1889-1890) was the first to have an all-steel frame, a structural element that became basic to modern design. Root also designed the 22-story Masonic Temple (1890-1892), which was the world’s tallest building for a time. Root was born on Jan. 10, 1850, in Lumpkin, Georgia. He died on Jan. 15, 1891.
