The Wrigley Building: Chicago Architectural Icon

The Wrigley Building, located at 400-410 North Michigan Avenue, is an iconic skyscraper that has graced Chicago's skyline since its completion in 1924. William Wrigley Jr., the founder of the Wrigley Chewing Gum Company, commissioned the building as the company's headquarters. The architectural firm of Graham, Anderson, Probst & White designed the building, drawing inspiration from the Giralda Tower of the Seville Cathedral in Spain and French Renaissance details.The building is composed of two towers, the south tower completed in 1921 and the north tower in 1924, linked by walkways at the ground and third floor levels. A 14th-floor walkway was added in 1931. The south tower stands at 30 stories, while the north tower reaches 21 stories. The building's facade is clad in gleaming white terra cotta tiles, in six different shades that become brighter as the building rises, creating a stunning visual effect, especially when illuminated at night. The building has been hand washed to preserve the terra cotta.The Wrigley Building was the first major commercial structure built north of the Chicago River, pioneering the development of North Michigan Avenue. It was also one of the first office buildings in Chicago to use air conditioning. The building's location at the bend of the river and its impressive clock tower make it visible for miles. The plaza surrounding the building offers gardens and views of the Chicago River. While the interior is primarily office space, the exterior can be admired from the street and is often included in architectural tours.