A somewhat more imposing structure than others in the neighborhood, the First United Methodist Church has the feel of some of the Gothic cathedrals of France, while remaining on a scale that is still inviting to the visitor. Its skin is smooth, but still ornate with arches and buttresses worthy of a place of worship, but lacking the severe ornamentation of other churches with the same basic design. Here the architecture is allowed to breathe on its own and show itself to the world without being covered up by frilly bits. This is not surprising considering the church was erected at a time when the Art Deco and Art Moderne movements were sweeping the nation. There is a rose window illuminating the sanctuary, but unfortunately, it is in the back of the building and thus only worshipers get to see it.
» The original blueprints for this church are in the archive of the Art Institute of Chicago.
