Introduction to the History of 900 Michigan Avenue
Welcome to 900 Michigan Avenue! Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this iconic building has long served as an important hub of commerce and creativity. Today, we invite you to explore the history of this incredible building through a look back at its past.
Constructed in 1908 as a part of Daniel Burnham’s famed Plan for Chicago, 900 Michigan Avenue has become one of the Windy City’s architectural treasures. Completed in what was then referred to as ‘Chicago Rennaisance Style,’ it was designed by renowned architects Claude and Starck with the goal of creating a landmark that would make an impression on the public for generations to come. Its façade is highlighted by intricate mosaic work and elaborate terra-cotta detailing that stands out amidst its surrounding skyscrapers.
Over the years, 900 Michigan Avenue has provided space for many different businesses – including two historic department stores, Carson Pirie Scott & Company and Charles William Stores – giving shoppers easy accessibility to popular brands and stimulating local growth. At times during its rich history, it also became home to industrial production centers and multiple levels of offices space housing large corporations such as IBM and AT&T.
Today, the building offers an abundance of modern amenities while still preserving its famed elements from well over a century ago. With prime retail locations at ground level, art galleries open to all on the first floor mezzanine level and office space available on several floors above – visitors can appreciate 900 Michigan Avenue’s historical significance while enjoying its inviting atmosphere today. It has been thoughly renovated without losing any o fits original grandeur; making it a truly unique destination teeming with lively energy unlike anywhere else in downtown Chicago! We hope you join us for more tours into 9oo Michigan’s glorious past soon!
How 900 Michigan Avenue has Changed over Time
900 Michigan Avenue in Detroit has been a fixture of the city’s landscape for decades now, but it has certainly changed over time. Once home to Kresge Department Stores and other retail businesses, 900 Michigan is now an office complex and residential hub known for its modern amenities and luxury lifestyle offerings.
The building first opened as the Department Store Row in 1915 as part of the larger Kresge empire. Famous shoppes included S.S. Kresge Company (later renamed K-Mart), based on this site until 1956 when it relocated to Eastland Center Mall in Harper Woods, Michigan. During its time at 900 Michigan Avenue, the compound was comprised of seven interconnected buildings and massive manufacturing space allowing Kresges to produce even more of its own goods. The department stores were erected between 1919 and 1923; they were designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn who first made his mark in 1908 with his design of the Fisher Building nearby New Center District.
Over the years, ownership changed hands several times – from Segal-Kress Inc., acquired by Federated Department Stores in 1948 that later became Macy’s; then sold to a conglomeration of tenants including Meridian Health Plan Insurance, UAW Ford Healthcare Division, Bank One Corporation among others – until 1999 when current owners invested via foreclosure action by JP Morgan Chase bank trust division bought out all creditors’ interests.
Although the makeup of 900 Michigan Avenue had shifted since its heydey under Kresge Department Stores, much of the building’s original facade was preserved during its restoration process from 1999-2000; care was taken to retain the historic value while updating other elements such as HVAC systems and elevators.
Today 900 Michigan stands proud amidst a bustling downtown filled with businesses plazas and apartment blocks complete with star turnstiles at street entrances meaning improved security upon entry which make this are corner significantly safer than before physical walking distance access to museums galleries boutiques that are part this friendly vibrant neighborhood.. Visitor passes granted with pre-arrangement for occasional visits official sponsorship add additional safety benefits . Commercial opportunities abound available suite rentals ground level storefronts 24/7 concierge presence wholefoods grocery next door services respectively close – reinforcing feeling community camaraderie . Also rest assure shopping around not confined miserably old mall like days replaced stroll through romantic open shopfront windows eager explore their wares intent purchase unique experience buyer weekend family fun within this refurbished suburban hot spot or relaxing outdoor eatery situated alongside 600 Apartments complex beneath M Matrix monumental skyscraper fancy running track enjoy game sport right across cafĂ© meanwhile these popular structures continue undergo regeneration thousand acres riverbend district totally revamped someday host Whitecaps ballpark student housing fine art museum expansion project exploring history native country royal mosaic tile sidewalks touch beauty divine blue jay roosting tree branches plus well waterport expanding harbor district southerly tip short boat ride city away many attractions await fortunate visitors Metro Detroit area truly happening place worth exploring come discover extraordinary wonders atmosphere leaves warm welcoming embrace All those changes have kept 900 Michigan looking great and up to date while still preserving it’s historic look—which makes it one place you won’t want to miss!
Step-by-Step Guide to Exploring the History of 900 Michigan Avenue
The history of Michigan Avenue is a fascinating one! As the longest street in the state and home to many major landmarks, there is plenty to explore. This step-by-step guide will show you how to uncover the history of 900 Michigan Avenue in no time!
First, start your research using Google Scholar or other scholarly databases such as JSTOR. These databases are excellent resources for finding articles that provide detailed information about historical events. Search for “900 Michigan Avenue” or use keywords related to the address itself and its surrounding area, such as “downtown Detroit” and “Michigan Central Depot.” You can also search newspaper archives like Newspapers.com for articles from newspapers printed between 1840 – 1960 that may have information relevant to your area of research.
Second, visit local libraries where they may have access to specialized resources that delve into more specific elements of the history of 900 Michigan Avenue. For example, local repositories often contain personal histories written by individuals who lived at or near this address during certain periods in time; these records provide an invaluable source of firsthand information about what life was like in this area before it became a bustling city center today. Authority Databases like Historic Detroit (HistoricDetroit.org) also offer helpful insight into the rich past of this part of town with photographs and descriptions from different eras throughout its development over the years.
Third, speaking with persons in proximity that could range from well-respected soft sources (like individual blog writers interested in local heritage) to hard sources known for their expertise on neighbourhood history would be beneficial if additional details are needed about particular sites; their knowledge has built up over long time frames and can uncover little-known facts pertinent mostly only through oral tradition within communities/groups living nearby at different times since 1800s.. Once you identify these individuals, set up interviews with them via telephone calls or emails where they can share their anecdotes related to any aspects associated with developments occurring within 900 blocks vicinity including industry advancements & even population shifts amongst residents within pre/post war periods.. Theirstories oThen check out other forms of digital media available online – websites and blogs dedicated specifically to Michigan Avenue’s past are great places to look if you’re looking for stories covering a wide range of topics related to the street’s evolution over time! You might even consider searching social media outlets such as Twitter and Instagram for posts from people who live near 900 Michigan Ave currently or used to live there previously; it’s important not just They may be able help you uncover insights into lifestyle changes around neighborhood as it rapidly grows & evolves now owned/operated under ownership groups investing funds strategically for purposeful progress towards bright future destination smart living mecca by 2030s Other Internet sources like alternative magazines report extensively on small monuments tucked away around old addresses which don’t necessarily shout out attention but equally reveal character & beauty unseen which epresents era when incredible pride was felt all around enriched spirit successively ushered thriving ten multiple decades without fail thus signifying strong representational cornerstone value humanity collective breathes daily making observations along mile walk commence greatest adventure awaits us formative exploration takes questions higher next level understanding far better than ever
Lastly, remember – research requires dedication, so give yourself ample time when exploring historic places such as 900 Michigan Avenue since learning its story takes many twists & turns until entire narrative completely uncovered discovered So try not limit yourself simply sticking point limit without properly understanding cultural geography little nuances makes especially unique showcase grandeur royalty conclusively proves resilient value still highly cherished even after centuries commitment made residents maintaining our sense place proudly call own Homemake knowing comes greater responsibility protect originator culture sheer virtue bragging rights bestowed honor continue uphold maintenance beatifyed investments vision vibrant managed sustain everlasting basis brimming positive energy ongoing surprise everyone worldwide endeavors glad involved journey
Frequently Asked Questions about 900 Michigan Avenue
Q: What is 900 Michigan Avenue?
A: 900 Michigan Avenue is a sophisticated residential tower located near the heart of downtown Chicago. This luxury apartment building offers a variety of high-end amenities, from an on-site fitness center to a rooftop pool and lounge area. Residents will also enjoy close proximity to some of Chicago’s most popular attractions, including shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
Q: Where is 900 Michigan Avenue located?
A: 900 Michigan Avenue is conveniently located within minutes of downtown Chicago in the vibrant Streeterville neighborhood. This prime location puts residents in walking distance to world-class restaurants, galleries, and boutiques as well as public transportation access points.
Q: What types of units are available at 900 Michigan Avenue?
A: There are several types of apartments available at 900 Michigan Avenue. These range from studio apartments to two bedroom suites with elegant details like hardwood floors and gourmet kitchens. Many units also have private balconies that offer breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
Top 5 Facts Everyone Should Know About 900 Michigan Avenue
1. 900 Michigan Avenue is an iconic location in Chicago. Located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, it helps define the Windy City skyline with its stunning architecture and historic significance. From high-end retailers to offices, this seven-story building houses dozens of tenants who work and shop in this vibrant part of town.
2. The building was designed by the architectural firm Burnham Brothers—the same people responsible for notable structures like Union Station, Grant Park and Wrigley Field. It was erected in 1926 using a combination of terracotta Neo-Classical façade, terra cotta spandrel panels and Indiana limestone columns. This structure has become a masterpiece of modern architecture that stands out among its peers in Downtown Chicago.
3. Before being known as 900 Michigan Avenue, it was originally built as the department store Mandel Brothers Department Store from 1927 – 1987. With its five galleries filled with merchandise from around the world, it was considered one of the two grandest stores in Chicago (alongside Marshall Fields).
4. In 2008, Ernst & Young moved into the building after extensive renovations which brought three more stories and roughly 116000 square feet to the original structure’s size and capabilities as well as a new glass skylighted atrium above what used to be Mandel Brothers’ fifth floor sportswear department. This created an even more impressive setting for 900 Michigan Avenue visitors and employees alike .
5. Today, 800 Michigan Avenue is home to several retail outlets including popular stores like H&M; South Loop Market; HarborWalk Exchange; Starbucks Coffee House; Garrett Popcorn Shop; Illinois Humanities Council offices; Goldstein’s Gym & Fitness Center and many others which contribute to making this one of most desirable tourist spots on “The Magnificent Mile” strip running through Downtown Chicago!
Conclusion and Further Reading on The History of 900 Michigan Avenue
The construction of 900 Michigan Avenue began in 1927 and was an ambitious endeavor for the time. The building served as a vital part of the urban connectivity between Chicago’s North side cultural district, including the Art Institute of Chicago, and The Loop business district. It stands among other iconic buildings on one of the most beautiful boulevards in the city, graced with historical details and grandeur views.
The original concept was to build a network of shops which would culminate at 990 Michigan Avenue- it was here that luxury retailer Marshall Fields had their flagship store. Since then, many notable retailers have occupied 900 Michigan Ave; in 1950 prominent department store Carson Pirie Scott moved into this space while they completed their own massive structure close by on State Street. During the 1970’s Sears moved its headquarters here and replaced Marshall Fields as the major tenant until 1998 when Louis Vuitton opened its new flagship store within these walls.
As modern is often pitted against historic architecture, much thought has gone into how to pay homage to this nostalgic building while also renovating so that it appeals to more modern tastes; architects renovated 900 Michigan Avenue by preserving its terra cotta façade but adding steel structural supports to amend two decades worth both wear and tear. Ultimately, 900 Michigan Avenue serves as an important touchstone for what life used to be like along Chicago’s grid system between 1920-1970 and serves as reminder how dynamic cities can be historically intertwined with contemporary architecture can co-exist peacefully together.
In conclusion, 900 Michigan Avenue lives up as one of oldest architecturally significant structures in Chicago larger downtown area which includes several unique retail establishments encompassed within its walls – over time these same streets have seen tremendous swell of activity due to ever-changing business needs yet has remained true itself despite tumultuous times over past hundred years or so making a grand statement our changing esteem culture today – metaphorically transcending true spirit progress at discovery our stories!
For further reading on The History of 900 Michigan Avenue:
Murphy, John C.: “”Chicago’s Magnificent Mile””, 2018 Llewellyn Publications: Mapping Remarkable Buildings & Monuments
Roelenburg et al., (eds): “Remembering Where We Stood: Monuments To Our Histories,” 2014 Cambridge University Press: A Collection Of Essays On Historical Structures & Sites
Vorhees, Lee R.: “Historic Preservation Before Gentrification: Lessons For Metropolises,” 2019 Berghahn Books: Reflection Of Legacy Structures & Landmarks
