Aon Center in Chicago (USA) - 346 meter skyscraper

The Aon Center is an icon of the Chicago skyline and one of the most iconic buildings in the United States. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this majestic skyscraper is a famous example of 20th century modern architecture. Originally called the Standard Oil Building, the building has undergone many changes, not only in name but also in exterior design. Today, it is a symbol of American determination, innovation and greatness. Let's take a closer look at its history, structure, and the interesting facts that make it so unique.

History and Architecture of the Aon Center

Designed by renowned architect Edward Durell Stone, the Aon Center was created as a result of massive investment by Standard Oil Company, one of the giants of the oil industry. According to the design, the building was to be not only functional but also monumental, which it achieved in full. Construction began in 1970, and just three years later, in 1973, the Aon Center (then known as the Standard Oil Building) became the tallest building in Chicago, as well as one of the tallest in the world.

The building was initially finished in marble, which was intended to emphasize its elegance and durability. However, as is often the case with nature - marble, despite its beauty, proved susceptible to cracking under the influence of the harsh Chicago climate. As a result, between 1990 and 1992, a major renovation took place, as a result of which the marble was replaced with white granite, and the entire project cost a whopping $80 million. This transformation added a modern touch to the building, while protecting it from further damage.

The Aon Center has 86 floors above ground and 5 underground, which makes its structure impressive. At 346 meters tall, it dominated the Chicago skyline for many years, second only to the Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower. Interestingly, the building lacks an antenna or spire, making it the tallest building in the world without such additions to its roof.

Aon Center Facts and Trivia

The construction of the Aon Center was full of spectacular moments. On April 6, 1970, during the official groundbreaking ceremony, a helicopter soared to the height of 346 meters to show the audience how tall the building would be when completed. This moment was remembered by Chicagoans, who eagerly followed every stage of the construction of this giant.

One of the more interesting facts about the Aon Center is that for 1973 the building was the tallest in Chicago, surpassing the Sears Tower, which was not completed until 1974. During this short time, the Aon Center was on everyone's lips as a symbol of modernity and the economic power of the United States.

The building changed its name several times, making it also the tallest building in the United States to have a name change. It was originally called the Standard Oil Building, and in 1985 the name was changed to the Amoco Building. It was not until 2001, after the property was sold, that the current name was adopted - Aon Center.

In the 1980s, the Aon Center also became famous for an unusual holiday gesture. In selected offices, the lights were turned off in such a way that a large cross of light appeared on the building's facade, visible from afar. This symbol of Christmas attracted the attention of residents and tourists, becoming another reason why the building gained the reputation of being not only modern, but also full of tradition.

Structure and dimensions

Aon Center stands out with its simple but powerful structure. The height of 346 meters gives it the status of one of the tallest buildings in the United States, and the number of 86 floors above ground and 5 underground floors makes it a real giant among skyscrapers.

Interestingly, despite its impressive height and size, Aon Center seems slim and elegant. This is due to the proportions and attention to detail, which give it a unique character. The white granite facade reflects sunlight, making the building look almost like a shining monument in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.

It is also worth noting that the Aon Center is extremely efficient in terms of space. Its usable area is approx. 260,000 square meters, making it one of the largest office buildings in Chicago. This space is used by a variety of companies and institutions that choose the Aon Center for its prestigious location and modern amenities.

Renovations and modernity

The aforementioned replacement of marble with white granite was not the only change that Aon Center has undergone over the years. In 2016, a plan was announced to build an observation deck and a restaurant on the top floors of the building, which was supposed to attract even more tourists and visitors. This project aroused a lot of excitement, but ultimately was not fully implemented. Nevertheless, Aon Center remains one of the most frequently visited points on the map of Chicago, especially by tourists interested in the city's architecture and history.

Aon Center, despite its age, is still synonymous with modernity and elegance. Regular modernizations and attention to its technical condition make the building one of the most desirable office addresses in the city. Today, the Aon Center is home to many global companies that value prestige and a great location in the heart of Chicago.

Awards and distinctions

Aon Center is one of the most recognized buildings not only in Chicago, but also in the entire United States. Its impressive architecture and attention to detail have contributed to winning several prestigious awards and distinctions. The building has gained recognition in the construction industry for its innovative approach to design and renovation.

In 1992, after the renovation was completed, the Aon Center was awarded the American Institute of Architects (AIA) award for outstanding achievements in the field of architecture. The jury appreciated primarily the harmonious combination of modernity and classic design. The successful replacement of the marble facade with white granite was also highlighted, with the aim of extending the building's life.

Aon Center has also repeatedly been listed as the most significant office building in the United States, not only in terms of height, but also in terms of energy efficiency and innovative technical solutions. In 2013, it received the LEED Silver certificate for sustainable development and the use of modern technologies that reduce the consumption of energy and natural resources.

Aon Center in films and literature

As one of the most recognizable buildings in Chicago, Aon Center has appeared in films and books that show the city's panorama or its daily life. Although it is rarely the main focus, its presence as a backdrop for dramas and action scenes in cinema and television does not go unnoticed.

The building has starred in several films set in Chicago. The most famous of these is "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" (2009), where the Aon Center is part of the Chicago skyline in key scenes. Its majestic silhouette also often appears in documentaries about the city's architecture, showing its history and influence on the development of Chicago.

Aon Center has also appeared in several books on architecture and urban planning. In one such publication, "Chicago’s Skyscrapers: The Architecture of Modernity", the authors devote special attention to the role of the building in the cityscape and its influence on subsequent generations of architects. Described many times in books on architecture, the Aon Center has become a symbol of modernity and elegance.

Unusual curiosities about the Aon Center

Aon Center hides many interesting stories that are not always known to the general public. For example, while many people associate the building with its distinctive appearance and height, few know that in the 1970s, attempts were made to place unique works of modern art inside, which were supposed to make it not only an office building, but also an art space. However, the idea did not gain the support of the property owners, so the project was abandoned.

Another interesting fact is related to alleged plans to build a helipad on the roof of the Aon Center. Although the building has a flat roof, ideally suited for this purpose, these plans were never implemented due to safety concerns. For years, rumors circulated in the media that helicopters would be able to land on the Aon Center, but in the end, the building was left without this function.

One of the more mysterious events in the history of the Aon Center was an incident that took place in 1983. As part of an energy-saving experiment, the lights on almost all floors of the building were turned off for several days, which caused much speculation among Chicagoans. Some believed that the building was the victim of a technical failure, others even suspected a terrorist attack, but in reality it was just a test of modern lighting systems.

Another interesting fact is that the Aon Center was one of the first buildings in Chicago to introduce advanced earthquake protection systems. Although Chicago is not a seismic area, the building's designers decided to use vibration damping technology, which was intended to increase the safety of the structure.

Summary

Aon Center is more than just another skyscraper in downtown Chicago. It is a building that has changed its face over the years, while maintaining its status as an icon of the urban landscape. From its inception, through name changes and renovations, to its current expansion plans, the Aon Center has consistently attracted the attention of residents and tourists.

The height, elegance and simplicity of the structure are the features that distinguish this building from other skyscrapers. For those interested in architecture, the Aon Center is a perfect example of contemporary construction, and for tourists - a must-see on the Chicago sightseeing map.

Whether you are interested in the city's history, architecture or simply admiring the panorama, the Aon Center offers something for everyone.