AIA Chicago Pens Letter of Support for the Preservation of the Century and Consumers Buildings to the Chicago Landmarks Commission
07.07.2022
July 7, 2022
In the critical years where we must limit global emissions, the embodied carbon of building materials must be reduced - emphasizing again the undeniable value of preservation.
AIA Chicago, the second largest chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the collective voice of 4,000 licensed architects, emerging professionals, architecture students, and allied professionals, alongside our state partner AIA Illinois, penned a letter of support for the preservation of the Century and Consumers Buildings to the Chicago Landmarks Commission.
The Century Building, built in 1915 by Holabird and Roche at 202 South State Street and the Consumers Building, built in 1913 by Jenney, Mundie & Jensen at 220 South State Street are significant contributors to the Chicago School of Architecture, and key to the vibrancy of the State Street Corridor.
These two, highly visible, early 20th-century buildings have been left vacant and are deteriorating without a reuse plan. The current owner has marketed these structures for redevelopment in coordination with the City of Chicago, but the project was halted due to security concerns by the adjacent federal courts. There is a current appropriation request of $52 million for the buildings' demolition.
Both structures are listed on Landmarks Illinois "2022 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois" list.
CLICK HERE to read the Statement of Support
CLICK HERE to take action and sign the petition by Preservation Chicago
AIA Chicago has long taken action against the demolition of historic structures, including the most recent success of the James R. Thompson Center by Helmut Jahn, FAIA, which was announced in mid-December of 2021.
About AIA Chicago
The American Institute of Architects Chicago (AIA Chicago) serves nearly 4,000 licensed architects, emerging professionals, architecture students, and allied professional members in Chicago and is the second largest AIA chapter in the country. AIA Chicago’s mission builds on the city's architectural legacy by advocating for the profession, sharing knowledge among members, and partnering with communities. It fosters a culture of design excellence for equitable, sustainable places and spaces.
AIA Chicago offers lectures and continuing education courses; specialized, issue-specific Knowledge Communities; advocacy for architects; and help for consumers looking for an architect.
AIA Chicago is the local Chicago chapter of The American Institute of Architects. Based in Washington, D.C., the AIA has been the leading professional membership association for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners since 1857. Learn more by visiting www.aiachicago.org.
