Purdue State Bank, Historic bank building in West Lafayette, Indiana
The Purdue State Bank is a bank building in West Lafayette situated on a trapezoidal lot between two intersecting streets. Its facade features minimal terra cotta panels that define the simple, functional design.
Architect Louis Sullivan designed this bank building in 1914 as part of his series of modern bank structures across the United States. The project emerged during the final phase of Sullivan's career and reflected his mature style.
The building demonstrates Sullivan's approach to creating functional financial architecture in small communities, showing how a bank could serve its purpose while reflecting architectural vision.
The building sits one block from Purdue University and today functions as a bank branch with an ATM near the entrance. Its proximity to campus makes it easy to locate and access.
The construction of this bank cost roughly $14,600, making it the most economical of Sullivan's bank projects during that era. Despite its modest budget, Sullivan achieved architectural quality through minimal means.
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