First National Bank de Chicago – (U.S.A.)

Abstract

Principally, five factors have participated in this project: necessary space, structure, mechanical and electrical systems, vertical circulation and urban surroundings. Two different functions have been taken into account: the lower part for the bank and the upper for leasing, with the consequent imperatives of space: broad open surfaces for contact with the public in the lower levels; and small business sites with an exterior view in the upper floors. The solution to the problem has been a structure that decreases in depth as its height increases with side superstructures in an inclined curve. It has a metal structure protected against fire with concrete and covered with granite slabs. All of the floors have a central air-conditioning system using electrical coolers instead of boilers; thus, the building operates entirely on electricity. To obtain maximum freedom of space in the bank floors, the classic central nucleus of communication has been replaced, for the leasing zone, by two nuclei of elevators at both ends of the buildings which jut out from the main structure. The bank, in turn, has two other elevator nuclei, adjacent to the preceding ones, and escalators for the public on the various levels. The creation of the plaza in front of structure provides an attractive expanse in a densely populated zone.