Bank of America Building

What’s the story behind Boston’s “Pregnant Building”? Right here in the Financial District looms the Bank of America Building at 100 Federal Street. It’s not hard to see how it earned its nickname. That distinctive bulge near the base gives it a unique profile against the city skyline. The Bank of America Building wasn’t always pregnant, or even called the Bank of America Building. Completed in 1971, it was originally the First National Bank Building. The architects, Campbell, Aldrich & Nulty, along with LeMessurier, designed the bulge for a practical reason. It allows for more floor space higher up while still giving pedestrians a wider view of the street below. It’s a clever architectural solution that also gives the building its memorable, if somewhat unconventional, charm. This building has witnessed a lot of Boston’s financial history. It started as the world headquarters of Bank of Boston, then became the headquarters of FleetBoston Financial after a merger. In 2004, Bank of America acquired FleetBoston, and the building became a center for their New England operations. Even though Boston Properties, Inc. purchased the building in 2012 for a cool $615 million, Bank of America remains a major tenant. The building’s official name also changed to its address, 100 Federal Street, in 2012. But for many Bostonians, it will always be the “Pregnant Building.” So next time you’re in the Financial District, take a moment to appreciate the Bank of America Building. It’s a quirky landmark with a rich history, a testament to Boston’s evolving skyline and its enduring financial spirit.