Wendella Boat Tour

Several weeks ago, I was able to take an architectural boat tour in downtown. The boat tours, from various companies, are very educational about the famous Chicago skyline. John's parents, Ann and Roger, as well as Tenior, a friend visiting from Haiti, John, and I were able to take an afternoon spring tour while it was still cool, but not too hot. We were lucky we had a very knowledgeable guide who discussed Chicago's development, based on the need for access to water for trade, as well as Chicago future architectural endeavors. Jean-Baptiste Pointe du Sable, regarded as the first permanent resident of Chicago, was from Haiti, which was wonderful way for Tenior to feel connected with his home. It was a real pleasure learning more about Chicago and spending the afternoon in good company.

Restoration Hardware

The home furnishings store Restoration Hardware recently opened it's Mid-Western flagship store in Chicago inside a historic building called the Three Arts Club. Featuring four floors and an outdoor roof-top deck, the building is an architectural gem and it was really wonderful walking around inside of it on a Sunday afternoon several weeks ago. The renovation included a restaurant inside an atrium, which set the tone of causal but elegant style that Restoration Hardware is trying to achieve. I found some of the placements of chandeliers over beds somewhat unusual and over-the-top, but overall the decor was tasteful and well designed.