sixty

during my architectural walking tour, learned all about art deco. it was during this era that skyscrapers started popping up (prior to this time, the highest building in the world was 16 stories) - this was due in part to advances in technology, including the use of steel, reinforced concrete, the invention of elevators & plastic. it was also during this time that the mayan ruins and king tut's tomb were discovered, which provided much inspiration for the arts and architecture. art deco emphasizes verticality and strength, and streamed modern lines. gone were the classical influences of greco-roman columns and cornices. we visited 7 buildings in seattle that were built during this time of opulence and abundance. but the great depression soon followed, and after 1933, not another skyscraper was built in seattle until 1959.