Scaffolding Comes Down for Old Republic Building’s Facade Restoration in The Loop

Much of the exterior scaffolding has now been removed from the 24-story Old Republic Building in The Loop, revealing the extensive nature of its facade restoration. The 325-foot-tall Classic Revival office tower at 307 N Michigan Avenue was originally planned by the Bell and Zoller Coal Company and designed by Vitzthum & Burns.

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Completed in 1924, the roughly 150,000-square-foot structure was named the Bell Building up until its change of hands in 1956, when it was sold to the Old Republic Life Insurance Company. The building dodged The Loop’s mid-century architectural purge and was designated as a landmark in 2010. Not only was the building safeguarded from demolition, the designation opened the door for its owner to receive class L tax incentives on restoration efforts.

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Previously issued permits have allowed for a precise understanding of scope of the work. According to these permits, 2,000 terra cotta pieces and 1,000 bricks have been replaced, along with 10,000 square feet of tuck pointing. There have also been numerous repairs and replacements for the facade’s shelf angles, flashing, and facade anchors.

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Nearby bus transit includes Routes 3, 6, 20, 26, 66, 124, 143, 146, 147, 148, 151, 157, 850, 851, and 855 at the intersection of Michigan & South Water. Further service within two minutes walk comprises of Routes 120 and 121 to the west and Route 4 to the east. All CTA L lines are available within a 10-minute walking distance southwest.

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Old Republic Building. Photo by Jack Crawford

Tallying at $12 million, the refurbishment has been carried out by Central Building & Preservation as the general contractor. Meanwhile, Central Building & Cleaning has served the masonry contractor. Current indicators point to a full completion before the end of the year.

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