History and Revival of Chicago's Historic Knickerbocker Hotel Building

History of the Knickerbocker Hotel Building

The Knickerbocker Hotel is a historic building located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Constructed in 1906, the Knickerbocker was one of the city's early high-rise hotels built in the Beaux-Arts style of architecture.

Early Years as a Luxury Hotel

When it first opened, the Knickerbocker Hotel catered to upscale travelers and businessmen with its lavish decor and high-end amenities. Located on Michigan Avenue, it benefited from proximity to Grant Park and Lake Michigan. In the early 20th century, Chicago was fast becoming a major metropolis and destinations like the Knickerbocker helped meet the demand for luxury accommodations.

Hotel Operation and Notable Guests

For decades, the Knickerbocker remained one of Chicago's premier hotels. The building operated as a hotel under various owners into the 1970s. Over the years many famous entertainers, politicians, and gangsters were rumored to have stayed at the Knickerbocker when visiting Chicago.

Architecture and Design

The 14-story Knickerbocker Hotel exemplifies Beaux-Arts style with its elaborate ornamentation and stately facade. The exterior features decorative terracotta and limestone while the interior boasts a grand lobby with columned arcades, coffered ceilings, and intricate plasterwork. During its heyday, the hotel offered luxurious amenities like fine dining and entertainment.

Later Years and Redevelopment

By the 1970s, the Knickerbocker had fallen into disrepair and ended operations as a hotel. Over the next few decades, the building stood vacant while ownership changed hands multiple times.

Recent Revival and Renovation

In 2015, the empty Knickerbocker Hotel was acquired for a major renovation project to convert it into apartments and revive the historic property. After a complete restoration process, the building reopened in 2017 with 330 high-end residential units as well as ground-floor retail space.

Current Status as Luxury Apartments

Today, the Knickerbocker building functions as luxury apartments and commercial space. Many original architectural details have been preserved from its hotel days to maintain the historic charm. The resurrection and repurposing of the long-vacant Knickerbocker is considered a major preservation success in Chicago.

Significance as a Chicago Landmark

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Knickerbocker Hotel is an excellent example of early 20th century commercial architecture in Chicago. Beyond its architectural pedigree, the building has cultural significance as part of the city’s rich hospitality history. The revived Knickerbocker represents an enduring connection to Chicago’s past while serving the needs of the modern city.

FAQs

What year was the Knickerbocker Hotel built?

The Knickerbocker Hotel building was constructed in 1906 in downtown Chicago, IL.

What architectural style is the Knickerbocker Hotel?

The Knickerbocker Hotel exemplifies Beaux-Arts style architecture, featuring decorative terracotta, limestone, and elaborate interior spaces.

Is the Knickerbocker still a hotel today?

No, after closing as a hotel in the 1970s, the building was renovated into luxury apartments with ground-floor retail space.