In the heart of Chicago’s Loop at the northeast corner of Wabash and Washington lies the Pittsfield building, a veritable gem steeped in history and character.
Constructed in 1927, this 40-story structure has become a beloved landmark, notable for its unique architectural style and historical significance.
What first captures visitors’ attention is the building’s handsome facade, which features a blend of brick and terra-cotta, topped with a weathered copper roof tip that gives it a distinctive appearance.
The interior of the Pittsfield is equally impressive, highlighted by intricately designed elevators, ornate ceilings, and a stunning chandelier that soars to three stories in height.
Originally, the first five floors of the building were dedicated to shops, while the upper floors were primarily used for office spaces.
In a fascinating tidbit from 1959, it was reported that around 750 doctors occupied offices within the Pittsfield, which even had its own plainclothes security detail.
Such operational efficiency and historical charm have kept the Pittsfield relevant through various economic shifts, including the Great Depression, which saw a significant decline in new skyscraper construction in Chicago until 1955.
The Pittsfield was commissioned by the estate of the illustrious Marshall Field, a prominent business mogul and philanthropist well-known for the Marshall Field’s department store chain.
Field’s grandson, Marshall Field III, was a key figure behind the construction of the Pittsfield, which was named in honor of Marshall Field’s first job in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
Interestingly, the building served as a gift to the Field Museum in 1944 to commemorate the museum’s 50th anniversary, a testament to the Field family’s long-standing support for the museum that bears their name.
Fast forward to 1960, when the Field Museum sold the building for $6 million—equivalent to a whopping $65.3 million today.
Currently, the Pittsfield is under the ownership of investor Tom Liravongsa, affectionately known as “Tom the Skyscraper Guy,” who has committed to converting remaining office spaces into residential units.
Notably, a portion of these units will be designated as affordable housing, a move that highlights a growing trend of addressing housing needs in urban areas.
Meanwhile, for those seeking a delicious breakfast in a historic locale, the Pittsfield Cafe located within the building has garnered a loyal following for its mouth-watering offerings.
As the building undergoes transformation, it remains essential to appreciate the importance of preserving such historical landmarks.
In today’s fast-paced world, where the rush to replace the old with the new often overshadows heritage preservation, the Pittsfield stands as a case study in the value of retaining historical significance.
It’s a stark reminder that while we can always construct new buildings, once we demolish the old, they are gone forever.
Dilla’s Chicago engages with these hidden histories, reminding us that every name and structure carries a story worth telling.
So next time you pass by the Pittsfield in Chicago, take a moment to reflect on its storied past and the many lives it has impacted through the decades.
image source from：chicagoreader
