A Photographer's Perspective
As the owner of Chicago Commercial Photography®, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the evolution of the Merchandise Mart, or “The Mart” as it’s affectionately known.

For many years, my business was rooted in this iconic building, and I continue to collaborate with its incredible team on various projects.

The Mart is more than just a commercial hub—it’s a vibrant community, a stunning work of art, and a testament to Chicago’s innovative spirit.

Its prime riverfront location, rich history, and recent transformations under Vornado Realty Trust’s ownership make it a must-visit landmark for anyone seeking to experience the heart of Chicago’s architectural and cultural legacy.

A Timeless Architectural Marvel
Designed by Alfred P. Shaw of Graham, Anderson, Probst & White and completed in 1930, The Mart is a shining example of Art Deco architecture.

Spanning 3.7 million square feet across two city blocks and rising 25 stories, it was the world’s largest building upon its opening—a title it held until 1943.

Its sleek limestone, terra cotta, and bronze facade, adorned with geometric chevrons and vertical window bands, balances grandeur with elegance, minimizing its massive scale through thoughtful design elements like chamfered corners and minimal setbacks.

The grand staircase in the South Lobby, a focal point of the building’s interior, is nothing short of breathtaking, welcoming visitors with its opulent Art Deco charm and murals by Jules Guerin depicting global commerce.

For anyone visiting Chicago, a tour of The Mart is a must to appreciate its architectural splendor and historical significance.

A Legacy of Evolution
Originally built by Marshall Field & Co. to consolidate Chicago’s wholesale goods industry, The Mart has continually reinvented itself to meet the needs of its time.

From its early days as a wholesale warehouse to its role as a hub for design and architecture in the 1950s, the building has adapted to changing economic landscapes.

During World War II, it even served as a manufacturing center for war materials, earning the nickname “Midwest Pentagon.” The Kennedy family owned The Mart from 1945 to 1998, a period that saw it grow into a leading design center with showrooms for interior designers and architects.

Today, under Vornado Realty Trust’s ownership since 1998, The Mart has transformed into a dynamic hub for innovation and creativity.

While it remains North America’s largest design center with over 250 premier showrooms, it has also become a magnet for tech and creative companies.

Tenants like Motorola Mobility, PayPal, Conagra Brands, Allstate, and the tech startup incubator 1871 reflect the building’s shift toward a knowledge-based economy.

This evolution showcases The Mart’s ability to stay relevant, blending its historic roots with modern functionality.

Vornado’s Visionary Upgrades
Since acquiring The Mart, Vornado Realty Trust has invested heavily in modernizing this architectural gem while preserving its historic charm.

A $40 million renovation completed in 2016, designed by firms like A+I and Gensler, introduced transformative upgrades that have elevated the tenant and visitor experience.

The redesigned South Lobby, with its iconic grand staircase, now serves as a welcoming gateway, while the second floor features a 50,000-square-foot amenity space including Marshall’s Landing restaurant, a tenant-exclusive speakeasy, and a state-of-the-art conference center.

Outside, the 5,000-square-foot River Park offers al fresco seating with stunning views of the Chicago River, connecting the building to its vibrant riverfront location.

These enhancements have made The Mart not just a workplace but a destination for collaboration and community.

As a photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting many of these upgrades, capturing the before, during, and after of construction projects that have revitalized The Mart’s spaces.

From the sleek lines of the redesigned lobby to the lush greenery of the River Park, my camera has chronicled the building’s transformation into a modern masterpiece that honors its Art Deco heritage.

Serving The Mart’s Vibrant Business Community
Through Chicago Commercial Photography®, I’ve also had the privilege of providing a wide range of photography and video services to many of the businesses within The Mart.

From capturing the elegance of premier design showrooms to creating professional corporate headshots for executives at companies like Conagra Brands and many others, our work showcases the dynamic energy of The Mart’s tenants.

We’ve also produced stunning product photography and other visual content for various firms, helping them elevate their brands within this iconic space.

These collaborations have deepened my connection to The Mart, allowing me to contribute to the success of its diverse and innovative business community.

Art on The Mart: A Global Spectacle
One of The Mart’s most captivating features is Art on The Mart, the world’s largest permanent digital art projection, launched in 2018 by Vornado Realty Trust in collaboration with the City of Chicago.

This $8 million project transforms the 2.5-acre riverfront facade into a colossal canvas, displaying vibrant, site-specific works by artists like Diana Thater, Barbara Kruger, and Nick Cave.

Projected across 165 feet in height and 556 feet in width—equivalent to nearly two football fields—the display draws thousands of spectators to the Chicago Riverwalk from April to December.

I was fortunate to photograph and video every stage of this groundbreaking project, from the installation of the 34 massive projectors to the unveiling of its first dazzling displays.

Capturing the interplay of light, color, and architecture as the facade came alive was a career highlight, showcasing The Mart’s role as a beacon of public art and innovation.

This initiative not only enhances the building’s riverfront presence but also underscores Chicago’s commitment to blending architecture with accessible, world-class art.

A Family-Like Community
Beyond its physical beauty, what truly sets The Mart apart is its people.

From security staff to building management, everyone I’ve worked with over the years has treated me with warmth and respect, creating a sense of family that goes beyond a typical client relationship.

This camaraderie has made every project, from photographing renovations to documenting events, a deeply rewarding experience.

The Mart’s staff embody a shared pride in the building’s legacy and a commitment to making it a welcoming environment for tenants and visitors alike.

A Riverfront Icon
Perched at the confluence of the Chicago River’s North and South branches, The Mart’s location is as iconic as its architecture.

Built on the site of a former Native American trading post and the Chicago and North Western Railway’s Wells Street Station, the building’s riverfront setting was chosen to beautify the waterfront while accommodating its massive scale.

Today, the River Park and Art on The Mart enhance this connection, making the building a focal point of Chicago’s revitalized Riverwalk.

Whether you’re strolling along the river or gazing from a nearby high-rise, The Mart’s commanding presence is a testament to its enduring significance.

A Must-Visit Chicago Landmark
The Merchandise Mart is more than a building—it’s a living testament to Chicago’s history, innovation, and community spirit.

Its Art Deco grandeur, modern upgrades, and vibrant tenant mix make it a cornerstone of the city’s commercial and cultural landscape.

As a photographer who has captured its evolution, I can attest to its timeless appeal and the dedication of its people.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a design professional, or simply a curious visitor, a tour of The Mart is an unforgettable experience.

Come see why this riverfront icon continues to inspire and captivate all who walk through its doors.