People’s Choice Best Building 2024, (7) Manhattan Building vs. (10) Old Colony Building

Known for its world-renowned architecture, Chicago has more than its fair share of stellar buildings and towers. From the Sears Tower downtown, to the Frederick C. Robie House out in the neighborhoods, famous architects keep coming back to put their mark on our skyline. We have dozens of iconic buildings around our city, but there can only be one that is the best!

In the spirit of March Madness, it’s time to figure out exactly which building is the favorite. With the bracket filled by all of you readers, it’s time to start voting!

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(7) Manhattan Building

Stats:

431 S. Dearborn St

Height: 224 feet

Constructed: 1891

Architect: William LeBaron Jenney

Designed at a time when towers were new and unproven, William LeBaron Jenney made a design decision to downplay the height of the building by dividing its facade into horizontal sections and added setbacks to appease onlookers of the time. Jenny also experimented with the building’s facade, using a variety of forms, materials, fenestration patterns, and ornamentation.

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(10) Old Colony Building

Stats:

407 S. Dearborn St

Height: 215 feet

Constructed: 1894

Architect: Holabird & Roche

Characterized by circular turret-like corners and large curving windows, the Old Colony Building was the first tall building to use interior arches for structural bracing. Continuous vertical piers divide the building's long Dearborn Street facade into tall, narrow sections, while continuous horizontal spandrels serve to visually widen the narrow Van Buren Street facade. After years in disrepair, the building was restored and converted into student housing in 2015.

Cast your vote below!