Daniel Burnham

Daniel Burnham, born on September fourth, eighteen forty-six, was a prominent American architect and urban planner whose influence shaped the landscape of several major cities. A key figure in the Beaux-Arts movement, he is often regarded as one of the most successful power brokers in the American architectural profession.

Burnham's architectural prowess was showcased during his role as the Director of Works for the 1892–93 World's Columbian Exposition, famously known as 'The White City.' This event not only highlighted his skills but also set a standard for urban design and planning in the United States.

His visionary approach led to the creation of master plans for cities such as Chicago, Manila, Baguio, and Washington, D.C. Among his notable designs are iconic structures like the Flatiron Building in New York City, Washington Union Station, London's Selfridges department store, and the Merchants Exchange in San Francisco.

While Burnham is best remembered for his skyscrapers and city planning initiatives, it is noteworthy that nearly one third of his total output, amounting to fourteen point seven million square feet, was dedicated to shopping buildings, showcasing his versatility and understanding of urban needs.