Picture the Pontiac Building. This architectural marvel stands proudly at 542 South Dearborn Street. It’s a Chicago landmark. Built in 1891 it’s the oldest surviving downtown Chicago building designed by Holabird & Roche.
The Pontiac Building wasn’t always an office building. Originally conceived as a warehouse the plans changed. The nearby commercial district expanded rapidly. The Pontiac’s flexible floor plan was perfect for conversion into offices. Smart move.
Imagine the bustle of Printer’s Row in 1891. This area was a hub for publishers and printers. The Pontiac Building housed many of them. Its 14 stories and 260 offices catered to their needs. Two passenger elevators moved people quickly between floors. That was quite something back then.
The building is more than brick and mortar. It showcases the Chicago School of architecture. Its steel frame is clad in brick and terracotta. Three tiers of bay windows grace the Dearborn Street facade. The Federal Street side is a bit different. It features a single tier of bay windows flanked by two tiers of flat windows. Terracotta is found on the soffits and the cornice. The first two floors have limestone piers with decorative capitals. Beautiful details for such a practical building.
The Pontiac Building is a true survivor. It cost $375000 to build. It survived the Great Chicago Fire. The building’s architectural significance earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places on March 16 1976. It stands as a testament to Chicago’s architectural heritage and its enduring spirit. A Chicago icon. The Pontiac Building.