People’s Choice Best Building 2024, (8) Trump Tower vs. (9) Carson Pirie Scott 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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(8) Trump International Hotel and Tower

Stats:

401 N. Wabash Ave

Height: 1,389 feet

Constructed: 2005-2009

Architect: Skidmore, Owings, Merrill (SOM)

Formerly the site of the Chicago Sun-Times, former President Trump developed the building which holds 339 hotel suites, 486 condos, and a rooftop restaurant with great views of the city. Designed by SOM, the project was originally planned to be the new world’s tallest building but was stunted by a few hundred feet in the aftermath of 9/11. The setbacks of the metal and glass tower respond to the heights of nearby landmarks, matching the heights of the Wrigley Building, Marina City, and the IBM Building.

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(9) Carson Pirie Scott Building

Stats:

1 S. State St

Height: 207 feet

Constructed: 1903

Architect: Louis Sullivan

Now known as the Sullivan Center, the former Carson Pirie Scott department store building is a State Street landmark, recognized especially by its richly ornamented, cast-iron entrance at the corner of Madison Street. The building’s signature features are marked by Sullivan’s organic ornament, whose design was inspired by plants native to the Midwestern prairie. The bottom floors are clad in dark green cast iron, softened by elaborate foliated patterns. The corner entrance rotunda is emphasized with additional ornament and crowned by a decorative overhanging cornice.

Cast your vote below!