181 West Madison pays homage to the classic Chicago skyscrapers of the 1920s with a modern translation of intricate tracery and artful setbacks culminating in an articulated crown. This fifty-story tower features an efficient and modular square floor plan offering premier tenants like Paine Webber column-free office space with dramatic views of downtown Chicago.

Vertical granite ribs and metal mullions alternate to emphasize the tower’s skyward momentum and create a compelling rhythm. Horizontal spandrels of patterned glass subtly soften these vertical accents.

Delicate finials sparkle in sunlight at the corner of each setback. Illuminated at night, they highlight the setbacks and crown against the night sky and contribute to the excitement of Chicago’s night skyline.

A four-story glass-roofed loggia accentuates the tower’s main entrance. Within the entrance, a marble-clad grand lobby features an elegant coffered, vaulted ceiling.

Size: 1 million gsf
Client: Miglin-Beitler Developments
Architect of Record: Shaw and Associates
Status: Completed 1990