James R. Thompson Center, Chicago

The James R. Thompson Center, designed by Helmut Jahn, is a striking example of Postmodern architecture in Chicago, distinguished by its vibrant colors and distinctive shape. Completed in 1985, the building was conceived as a symbol of transparency and accessibility, reflecting the state of Illinois’ commitment to public service. Its design merges functionality with visual impact, intended to represent an open and welcoming government space. The Thompson Center consolidates 50 state agency offices into a single, easily accessible location, making it both a functional government center and a community hub for shopping and dining.

Architecturally, the Thompson Center makes a bold statement with its non-traditional design. The building's southeast profile features a curved blue glass facade and salmon-colored steel, evoking the grand domes of historic government buildings while breaking away from the strict linearity of modernism. This dome-like shape pays homage to the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield, adding a historical reference to its otherwise contemporary appearance. The gridded walls that face LaSalle and Lake Streets provide a more traditional façade, creating a juxtaposition with the building’s more expressive elements.

Inside, the Thompson Center continues to impress with its expansive, skylit rotunda. Spanning 160 feet in diameter and rising 13 stories, this central space is lined with open office balconies and features a large circular cutout that overlooks a busy food court and various state offices. The open design, with its continuous flow of escalators and exposed elevators, adds to the building's dynamic and bustling atmosphere. The rotunda serves as a vibrant heart of the complex, enhancing its role as a “peoples’ center.”

Maintaining a comfortable climate within this large glass structure presents a unique challenge. To address this, the building utilizes an innovative thermal storage system. Ice slush is created overnight when electricity costs are lower and stored in basement tanks. This chilled slush is then used to cool the building during the day and re-frozen overnight, balancing efficiency and comfort in a building known for its striking aesthetic and significant public function.