Commerce Trust Building, Kansas City

The Commerce Trust Building in Kansas City is a historic 15-story tower completed in 1907 as the home for Commerce Bancshares, the city's largest bank at the time. It stands out as Kansas City's second skyscraper, following the New York Life building, and was the tallest building in Missouri upon its opening. The building is notable for its striking facade, featuring red granite and white terra cotta tiles.

The site previously housed the Kansas City Journal, which was later taken over by Commerce. Interestingly, former U.S. President Harry Truman worked in the building that preceded the Commerce Trust Building. Designed by architect Jarvis Hunt, who also designed Kansas City's Union Station and the headquarters of the Kansas City Star, the building reflects Hunt's prominent role in shaping the city's architectural landscape. The construction was handled by the George A. Fuller Company, renowned for building iconic structures such as the Flatiron Building in New York City and continuing its legacy in skyscraper construction worldwide.

In 1965, Commerce expanded with the addition of Commerce Tower but retained the original Commerce Trust Building for continued use. A significant renovation in 2004 expanded the building’s square footage to 300,000 square feet by filling in the light court between the fourth and 15th floors. This renovation also included a notable feature in the lobby: the illumination of its ornate glass ceiling to mimic natural sunlight, enhancing the building’s historic charm with a modern touch.