35 East Wacker: Chicago's Jewelers Building

Located at the intersection of Wabash Avenue and Wacker Drive, 35 East Wacker Drive, also known as the Jewelers Building, is a 40-story skyscraper that has been a prominent feature of the Chicago skyline since its completion in 1927. Designed by Joachim G. Giaver and Frederick P. Dinkelberg, the building exemplifies the City Beautiful movement with its classical revival style. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building outside of New York City. The building was originally conceived as a central hub for Chicago's jewelry trade, providing office and display space for jewelers and merchants. To ensure the safety of tenants and their valuable merchandise, the building featured a unique indoor parking garage on floors two through twenty-two. A car elevator system allowed jewelers to drive their vehicles directly to their offices, minimizing the risk of theft. Although innovative, the parking system became obsolete as car designs evolved. The building's architecture showcases a blend of Neoclassical and Art Deco elements. The exterior is clad in tan-colored terra cotta, with a gray limestone base. A notable feature is the large clock mounted on the third floor at the corner of Wabash Avenue and Wacker Drive, donated by the Elgin National Watch Company. The building is crowned by a distinctive dome, which originally housed a restaurant called the Stratosphere Lounge. The building has undergone renovations to modernize the interior while preserving its historic facade.