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¥ÒThere is no precedent for this
great contest, which has drawn upon the genius of the old world and
the new. The competitive method is
adopted in the case of public buildings with increasing
frequency, but the new Tribune Building will be the first privately owned
edifice the design for which was awarded in a prize competition open to
the world. There never has been
such a contest and it is very doubtful that there ever will be another. . . .
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¥Thus the competition has achieved in
a noteworthy way not only The TribuneÕs purpose to procure for
itself the most beautiful and distinctive building, but its secondary object to
stimulate
architectural genius and bring forth works of beauty. It is hoped all the highly meritorious
designs which have failed of receiving prizes will appeal to individuals and corporations
intending to build. At least a
score are much above the average of the best modern
office building and would be a credit to any city or street in the world. It is The TribuneÕs hope that
these splendid designs will be realized as many as possible, in Chicago. The designs, collectively speaking,
are the most important expression of modern utilitarian architecture
ever presented for analysis and comparison. They may be considered an encyclopedia
of the architecture of the skyscraper.
Genius, exceptional talent, experience, ingenuity,
and inspiration have contributed richly and we are confidence its influence
will be widespread and lasting.
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¥The greatest architectural contest
of history will result not only in achievement of what The Tribune
announced as its desire, the most beautiful and distinctive office building in
the world, but it will produce many other beautiful buildings. It will give Chicago
an architectural gem of the first water and it will add permanently to the
resources of the modern architect a mine of new ideas and suggestions. This was the hope of The Tribune and it
has been fully realized.Ó
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