“19 South LaSalle Street has been described as one of Jenney’s most ‘uncompromising’ facades due to its rectangularity which is only interrupted by horizontal banding at the 11th and 12th stories. Although, the horizontal courses and the building’s shifting design are typical of Jenney’s work around this time period. 19 South LaSalle is designed in an “L” shape with its more narrow 54 foot facade facing toward LaSalle Street while a longer, more elaborate 187 foot facade faces a small alley known as Arcade Place.

“The building stands 16 stories and was originally topped with a peaked roof which was replaced by an additional three stories. 19 South LaSalle Street was mentioned in the 2004 American Institute of Architects Guide to Chicago.” (19 South LaSalle Street Wikipedia)

Preservation Chicago is very supportive of the adaptive reuse of 19 South LaSalle Street. This is a very important early skyscraper designed by William LeBaron Jenney, the father of the modern skyscraper.

Having three William LeBaron Jenney designed skyscrapers in a row makes this stretch of LaSalle Street extraordinarily significant in the world of architecture. This building is highly significant and deserving of a Chicago Landmark Designation to recognize, protect and support the building.

We’ve strongly encouraged the developer and other decision makers to pursue a Chicago Landmark Designation. We’ve testified in support of Chicago Landmark Designation and will continue to advocate for the building through the process.

• Investor plans LaSalle Street office-to-apartment conversion, eyes distressed Loop offices, Danny Ecker, Crain’s Chicago Business, 10/3/24
• Foreclosure suit hits LaSalle Street landlord; The 129-year-old building at 19 S. LaSalle St. could be a candidate for conversion to a residential or other use as the city tries to bring more foot traffic to the heart of the Loop; Danny Ecker, Crain’s Chicago Business, 11/2/22
• Central YMCA Headquarters, 19 S. LaSalle Street Wikipedia
• Central YMCA Headquarters, 19 S. LaSalle Street LoopNet Listing
• 19 South LaSalle Website