8 Buildings In Chicago Illinois That May Be Destroyed

If there’s one thing Chicago Illinois is known for (besides being windy) its being home to some very beautiful architecture. Over the course of its existence, Chicago has been home to countless incredible buildings, many of which have become a large part of the city’s culture. However, although there are many buildings that have become staples in the city, that unfortunately does not mean that they are safe. As time goes on, and the city needs to make room for new project, it becomes more and more clear that some of the buildings many Chicagoans have gotten used to seeing may not be around much longer. While there are some people and organizations who work hard to preserve these buildings, the sad reality is that every one cannot be saved. While there is still some hope left for these class buildings, only time will tell what the future has in store. Here are 8 buildings in Chicago Illinois that may be destroyed.

James R. Thomspon Center

Opened in 1985, the James R. Thompson Center is used to house several government offices. With its post modern design, the space is incredibly unique and fun to look at. While the building has become very popular in the city, it is not at risk of being torn down because it has become somewhat of an eyesore due to mistreatment. Last year, Governor Bruce Rauner proposed that the property be sold, which will almost surely mean that it will be demolished.

image via ilnews.org

McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center

At the time of its construction in the early 1970s, McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center was the largest convention center in the United States. However, things have changed over the last several decades, and now many believe that the building serves no purpose and needs to go. Plus, with much of the real estate surrounding the building being revamped, it seems only logical that this building will eventually have to deal with its fate.

image via structurae.net

Nellie Black and Martha Wilson Pavilions

Once the Children’s Memorial Hospital, this classic structure is on the verge of being almost entirely destroyed. Upcoming construction projects plan to revamp several structures at the Nellie Black and Martha Wilson Pavilions which means that some of the buildings will be demolished. As of now, none of the structures as not protected as landmarks, but many are hoping that will change.

image via www.chicagobusiness.com

Washington Park National Bank

This once prominent bank building has been around since the 1920s. However, since being empty, the bank has not received much attention, and has become run down and unattractive. While some hope that it will eventually be restored, there have been no talks to do so as of yet, putting this building at risk of being destroyed.

image via chicagopatterns.com

Sears and Roebuck

Founded in Chicago Illinois, Sears and Roebuck was once one of the biggest department stores in the country. Unfortunately; however, the company has struggled greatly in recent years, and have been forced to close several locations. While this location in on Lawrence and Winchester in Chicago is still open, as the company continues to close stores, many fear that this one will be next.

image via chicago.curbed.com

Old Chinatown Buildings

Once known as “Little Cheyenne” Chicago’s original Chinatown section is full of several old buildings that have become a big part of the city’s history. In fact, many of the buildings in Chinatown are some of the oldest remaining examples of the type of architecture that was prominent in the city after the Chicago Fire. However, despite their place in history, these buildings are at risk of being destroyed as they become more and more dilapidated and as new development continues throughout the city.

image via chicagotonight.wttw.com

LaSalle and Van Buren CTA Station Houses

More than a century old, this station house is the last original station house left in Chicago. While some would think that that alone means that it is safe from being demolished, that simply isn’t the case. Last year, the city tore down another equally old station house, and many fear that this one will be next as it continues to deteriorate.

image via www.chicagobusiness.com

St. Aldabert Catholic Church

This beautiful building was built in 1912, and contains many classic elements of church architecture including stained glass windows. Preservation Chicago has included the church on its list, but now that the archdiocese has announce that St. Aldabert’s will be closing, the structure’s future remains slightly up in the air.

image via www.chicagotribune.com

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