Washington Block, Commercial landmark structure at 40 North Wells Street, Chicago, United States.
The five-story Washington Block features limestone facades with detailed stonework, deep horizontal rusticated joints, and carved window surrounds at its prominent corner location.
Constructed between 1873 and 1874 by architects Frederick and Edward Baumann, this building emerged during Chicago's reconstruction period following the Great Fire of 1871.
The building represents a transitional period in Chicago architecture, demonstrating innovative foundation techniques that influenced the development of future skyscrapers in the city.
The structure maintains its mixed-use character with retail space on the ground floor and professional offices on upper levels, accessible from both Wells and Washington streets.
Washington Block introduced the isolated pier foundation technique, allowing construction on soft soil instead of bedrock, which revolutionized building methods in Chicago.
Location: Chicago
Inception: 1873
Architects: Frederick Baumann
Made from material: limestone
GPS coordinates: 41.88300,-87.63410
Latest update: March 7, 2025 11:29
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