Olsen-Hansen Row Houses, Chicago (must see)

Most prominently employed in residential architecture, the Queen Anne style left an indelible mark on Chicago during the latter half of the 19th century. In this city, much like other American urban centers, the term "Queen Anne" doesn't denote a specific historical epoch or a rigidly defined architectural template; instead, it seamlessly blends architectural elements drawn from Classical, Tudor, Victorian, and Colonial influences to create a distinctive and eclectic look.

The Queen Anne style finds exquisite expression in Chicago's architectural landscape, with noteworthy examples like Crilly Court (constructed in 1885) and the ornate Olsen-Hansen Row Houses (completed in 1886) on West Eugenie Street. While only five of the original twelve houses from the latter project still grace the neighborhood (with No. 164 having served as the residence of the Norwegian-born architect Hansen himself), they collectively serve as splendid exemplars of the aesthetic. These homes showcase the hallmark features of the era, including distinctive turrets, an array of window designs, irregular rooflines, elaborate Victorian porches, and a harmonious medley of diverse building materials and colors, epitomizing the exuberance of architectural design during that period.