Sullivan Center: A Chicago Architectural Masterpiece
Explore Louis Sullivan's architectural gem in Chicago's Loop, a landmark of innovation and beauty with its intricate design and historic significance.
The Sullivan Center, located at the bustling intersection of State and Madison in Chicago, is a landmark building that exemplifies the Chicago School of architecture. Designed by Louis Sullivan and initially built in 1899 for Schlesinger & Mayer, it later became the home of Carson Pirie Scott & Co. for over a century. The building showcases Sullivan's distinctive style, blending form and function with innovative techniques and materials. The Sullivan Center's steel-frame construction, a pioneering approach at the time, allowed for expansive windows and open interior spaces. The building's facade features a tripartite division and Chicago windows, with a grid of piers and spandrels expressing the underlying frame. The lower floors are adorned with elaborate cast-iron ornamentation, showcasing organic and floral motifs inspired by the Midwestern prairie. The corner entrance rotunda, emphasized with additional ornament and a decorative cornice, invites visitors to admire the intricate details. Today, the Sullivan Center is a mixed-use building housing offices, retail spaces, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Visitors can explore the building's exterior and interior, admiring the architectural features and shopping at the Target store located within. The building is easily accessible via public transportation, with several CTA train and bus lines serving the area. Nearby parking garages offer convenient options for those arriving by car.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring your camera to capture the intricate architectural details of the building's facade.
- Take a walk around the nearby buildings to appreciate the surrounding architectural styles.
- Look up to admire the intricate details on the facade and the Tiffany glass mosaic vaulted ceiling inside.
A brief summary to Sullivan Center
- 9 E Madison St, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60602, US
Getting There
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Walking
The Sullivan Center is located in the heart of the Chicago Loop, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Millennium Park, walk west along Madison Street for about 5 minutes. The building will be on your right at the corner of State and Madison. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
The Sullivan Center is conveniently located near several CTA train stations. Take the Red Line to Monroe station, which is directly adjacent to the building. Alternatively, the Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines all have stops within a few blocks. A single ride on the CTA costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout downtown Chicago. A short ride from nearby locations such as Navy Pier or the Magnificent Mile will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near the Sullivan Center. Rates typically range from $20 to $40 for a few hours, with options like Palmer House Garage (124 S Wabash Ave) and 55 E Monroe St Garage. Street parking is also available, with rates around $7 per hour in the Loop area. Be sure to check street signs for parking restrictions and time limits.
