Uploaded September 2014 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Helmut Jahn designed the James R. Thompson Center in 1985 to house the State of Illinois government offices. 24,600 exterior glass panes create a curved glass façade, referencing the domes of classical governments. The building is one of the largest enclosed spaces in the world, using a reflective design and materials to represent the idea of transparent and accessible government. Visit architecture.org/buildings to learn more about Chicago’s most iconic buildings and discover how Chicago’s rich architectural legacy was built.
Helmut Jahn designed the James R. Thompson Center in 1985 to house the State of Illinois government offices. 24,600 exterior glass panes create a curved glass façade, referencing the domes of classical governments. The building is one of the largest enclosed spaces in the world, using a reflective design and materials to represent the idea of transparent and accessible government. Visit architecture.org/buildings to learn more about Chicago’s most iconic buildings and discover how Chicago’s rich architectural legacy was built.
