12 Jun abstract art deco tranmission panels highlight holabird and root’s illinois bell telecommunications building on chicago’s wesde side
the at&t monroe exchange building, at 1340 west monroe street in chicago’s near west side, is a notable example of art deco utility architecture designed by holabird & root.
originally operated by illinois bell, later part of at&t corp., the facility is one of chicago’s largely windowless telephone exchange and switching hubs.
architectural significance:
the designers: holabird & root became a leading force in chicago architecture in 1927 and helped define the city’s art deco style, producing landmarks such as the chicago board of trade building.
dressing up utilities: in the late 1920s and 1930s, chicago utility companies often enclosed industrial infrastructure in decorative architectural shells that reflected the character of surrounding neighborhoods.
the structure: built to house telecommunications switching equipment, the building displays the geometric forms, recessed massing, and sturdy masonry typical of late 1920s art deco utility buildings.
building status and location:
the site remains an active utility property owned by at&t corp. it stands in the near west side, near the west loop, a few blocks from destinations such as the wndr museum.
