Century Building

The Century Building is a commercial building in downtown St. Louis constructed with a steel frame and large windows that reflect Chicago School architectural style. The prominent cornice line and regular rows of windows define its visible structure and proportions.

The building was completed in 1896 during a period when St. Louis was expanding economically as a major commercial center. Its construction marked a shift toward modern steel-frame design that allowed taller office buildings to rise across the downtown area.

The building represents how modern office space transformed downtown St. Louis in the late 1800s, with architects using abundant windows to bring light and air to working spaces. The regular window pattern and strong cornice line that visitors see today signaled economic progress and contemporary design to people of that era.

The building is easily spotted from the street as part of the downtown commercial district with nearby pedestrian areas. Visitors can best appreciate its architectural features from the surrounding walkways where the full height and window pattern are visible.

The building was constructed in two separate phases because rising costs forced a change from the original plan for a single unified tower. This unusual construction approach resulted in visible architectural adaptations that remain apparent in the structure today.

Location: St. Louis

Part of: Century Building and Syndicate Trust Building

GPS coordinates: 38.62950,-90.19390

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01