word of the week: PEDIMENT

PEDIMENT: the triangular element (or gable) surmounting a colonnade or major division of a facade. Pediments are found everywhere in Chicago. You can find them decorating the main entrances to classically designed cultural institutions (such as the Art Institute of Chicago), and even frequently above windows and doors on buildings of less prominence such as our own homes.

Compare the huge modern glass and steel pediment topping off the Harold Washington Library with the much smaller and more classical pediment atop the Swedish American State Bank Building.

Harold Washington Library

Swedish American State Bank Building