Goldblatt's Building, historic department store building in Chicago
Goldblatt's Building is a department store in Chicago built between 1921 and 1928 in two phases, serving as the first location of the Goldblatt Brothers chain. It features a sturdy brick structure with three stories topped by a five-story terra cotta addition, designed by architect Alfred S. Alschuler in the late Chicago School style.
The building was erected in 1921-22 and later expanded from 1925-28 with a five-story addition to support rapid retail growth. It reflects the Chicago School approach and marks an important period when department stores became centers of American commerce and social life.
The name Goldblatt comes from brothers Maurice and Nathan, who opened their first store here and built a regional retail chain. For many decades, this location served as a gathering place where neighbors would meet, shop, and share everyday moments together.
The building is located on West Chicago Avenue in West Town and is easy to reach on foot. It now houses city offices and the West Town Senior Satellite Center, so visitors should be aware that it is an active workspace with limited visiting hours.
The interior houses several public artworks from the city collection, including pieces made from bicycle parts, stockings, and found objects. These installations tell stories about the building's past as a bustling retail center and remind visitors in surprising ways of its commercial heritage.
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