A new book that was published earlier this month shines a spotlight on one of Chicago’s most celebrated architectural landmarks. The Wrigley Building: The Making of an Icon tells the story of the century-old Michigan Avenue tower and its legacy as a cultural, business, and artistic hub.
Written by Chicago historians Robert Sharoff, William Zbaren, Tim Samuelson, and John Vinci, the nearly 400-page hardcover is a comprehensive visual and historical exploration of the building’s past and present. The team’s press release about the book notes that the Wrigley Building debuted with a picturesque structure of 375,000 hand-crafted terra cotta blocks, and was designed by Charles Gerhard Beersman and commissioned by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.
Book Cover of "The Wrigley Building: The Making of An Icon" | Photo by Rizzoli
According to the same press release, the iconic building has hosted everything from the Arts Club of Chicago—showcasing works by Picasso, Matisse, and Duchamp—to WBBM Radio’s twelve studios, which broadcasted everything from radio plays to live music. The book also spotlights Columbia Records’ storied Studio 12, where artists like Benny Goodman, Cab Calloway, and Bill Monroe recorded during Chicago’s golden age of jazz and country.
The narrative follows the Wrigley Building through its high points and quieter years. Once known for outdated elevators and sleepy restaurants, the tower underwent a transformative $82 million renovation in 2012 after becoming a city landmark, the press release states. Now owned by billionaire Joe Mansueto, the building continues to attract creatives and innovators to its modernized offices.
The publication features over 400 images, including striking new photography by Chicago photographer William Zbaren, who was granted rare access to the clock tower and rooftop. The book also includes archival material and design vignettes contributed by Samuelson and Vinci, presented with the help of graphic designer Cheryl Weese.
Published by Rizzoli Electa, The Wrigley Building: The Making of an Icon is priced at $95 and is now available for purchase on its website.
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