Wrigley Building, Chicago

London has Big Ben, Paris has the Eiffel Tower, and Chicago has the Wrigley Building. This towering structure with a radiant white exterior stands as an iconic symbol deeply ingrained in the hearts of Chicagoans. Perched along the bend in Michigan Avenue at the river, it stands as the "Jewel of the Mile", its grandeur enhanced by the mirrored image in the water when observed from both the east and west.

Yet, the Wrigley Building is more than just a beloved symbol; it encapsulates the essence of Chicago's architectural history up to the 1920s. Designed by the talented young architect Charles G. Beersman, the structure's tripartite division draws inspiration from European traditions, a common practice among Chicago's commercial architects since the city's rebirth following the 1871 fire. Beersman was inspired by the dazzling effects of the 1893 White City, leading him to embellish the building with sparkling terra-cotta cladding. He selected six shades of tiles, ranging from creamy white at the base to blue-white at the summit, creating an ascending brilliance. When night falls, an array of floodlights on adjacent structures bathes the Wrigley Building in a captivating, ever-intensifying luminance. Whether it's noon or midnight, the edifice stands as a brilliant beacon against the sky.

Just next door, at 401 N Wabash Ave, the mirrored oval Trump International Hotel & Tower reached its peak in September 2008, soaring to 92 stories, briefly making it the second-tallest building in the United States, following the Sears Tower. Initially, Donald Trump had ambitious plans to make it the world's tallest building, but these were scaled back in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Impressively attuned to its surroundings, the tower echoes the curve of the river and pays homage to the Wrigley Building. Inside, it houses a luxurious hotel, opulent condos, and a fine dining establishment.

Tip:
Don't miss the chance to step inside the Wrigley Building's lobby during regular business hours to admire its extensive brasswork.