On August 1st the General Services Administration (GSA) announced that it has selected rehabilitation and adaptive reuse as the preferred alternative for the historic Century and Consumers Buildings located at 202 and 220 State Street in Chicago, IL. This decision by GSA is a tremendous victory for preservation.

The Century and Consumers Buildings were included on the National Trust’s list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2023 as the GSA was considering demolishing both buildings to address security concerns with the adjacent Dirksen Federal Courthouse.

Since the 11 Most Endangered designation, the National Trust has been working with a coalition of local preservation advocates including Landmarks Illinois, Preservation Chicago, the Chicago Architecture Center, and many others to advocate to GSA for the preservation of these important historic buildings. Chair Sara Bronin of the President’s Advisory Council on Historic Preservation also recently offered her support via an editorial in the Chicago Tribune.

The National Trust is grateful that the GSA heard the many voices of advocates urging that the Century and Consumers Buildings should not be demolished and commends the GSA for their decision.

However, preservation is not yet assured, and a viable adaptive reuse must still be identified. The GSA will soon issue a request for proposals to lease the buildings, and the National Trust plans to continue to work with our local partners, GSA, and the Chicago development community to ensure the long-term preservation of these significant early skyscrapers.