The first public library building in Chicago was actually built and designed by a Boston firm, Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge, in 1897. The ornate interiors feature mahogany doors, bronze railings and framings, pink and green marble, white Carrara marble, intricate tile work, and romanesque touches, and two glass domes. One of the domes is the largest Tiffany glass dome in the world. This masterpiece features more than 30,000 pieces of glass covering over 1,000 square feet. This spectacular dome bathes the Preston Bradley Hall with natural light. The coffered ceilings, grand staircases, and gleaming marble surfaces make this building a true gem of the architectural world. The building is now the Chicago Cultural Center, a museum and special events center, as well as a visitor center.
Detail of the Tiffany dome.
This is a detail of the intricate tile work of the Library floor.
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