The building's features characterize this style through the use of large "Chicago windows", metal frame construction, distinctive bays, and terra cotta cladding. The combination of the north side projecting bay windows, and the east side rectangular "Chicago windows" with movable sashes is representative of the two typical Chicago school window types.[2] The building is prominently located on the southwest corner of State Street and Madison Street, with visibility increased by an offset in the alignment of State Street.
The building is a critical component of a grouping of significant structures, including Carson Pirie Scott and the former Mandel Brothers Store, at what was once labeled the "World's Busiest Corner". The building was designated a Chicago landmark on March 26, 1996.[3] In 1997, it was converted to a dormitory for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.[2] The corner of the 3rd floor of the Chicago Building contains the cornerstone of Chicago. It is the 0-0 degree point of the city, and is the location from which all addresses in Chicago begin.
^ ab"Chicago Building". Emporis. 2007. Archived from the original on February 23, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
^"Chicago Building". City of Chicago Dept. of Pl. and Devpmt., Landmarks Div. 2003. Archived from the original on June 15, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
