PNC Center

The PNC Center is a 27-story office building in Cincinnati's downtown business district rising roughly 108 meters (355 feet) with a light-colored facade and tinted rectangular windows. The structure features multiple stepped setbacks throughout its design, giving it a distinctive layered appearance.

Completed in 1979, this structure was the tallest building project constructed in Cincinnati during that decade. It originally functioned as the headquarters for Central Trust Bank, anchoring the city's financial sector of that era.

The structure shows typical design choices from the 1970s with its stepped silhouette and flat roofline, departing from the crowned towers common to that era. The horizontal and vertical setbacks create a visual signature that distinguishes it among other downtown buildings.

The building sits at the intersection of Fifth and Main streets with a public plaza on the southeast corner offering space for pedestrians to walk and gather. Its central location makes it easy to find and provides good views of the surrounding business district.

The building is known for its characteristic stepped form created by multiple setbacks that produce a visually striking, layered profile. This design choice was unconventional for towers of that era and made it a visual reference point in the skyline.

Location: Ohio

GPS coordinates: 39.10130,-84.50930

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00