Construction of Century Tower from 1929 to 1930 faced several logistical difficulties. First of all, the building’s lot was a mere 85′ x 150′. Additionally, the south and west edges of the building were 16 feet from the tracks of the L’s downtown loop. Finally, construction was complicated by the 1923 Chicago Zoning Ordinance which specified setback requirements for buildings that exceeded 260 feet in height. However, the architects found a loophole: buildings could be taller than 260 feet, but only if the building’s volume decreased proportionally as it got taller. This led to Century Tower’s distinct shape with a wide 264’ base and a 337’ tower on top.

Originally, Century Tower was called the Trustees System Service Building and was the headquarters of the Trustees System Service bank. After the company declared bankruptcy, the building was purchased by the Corn Products Company. Afterwards it became an office building and housed the consulates of many different countries as well as several radio stations. In 2003, the building was renovated by firm Fitzgerald & Associates and turned into an apartment building. Finally, the building was converted into a condominium complex in September 2005, which it remains today. Over the years, Century Tower went by several different names including the Corn Products Building, the 201 Tower, the Lake and Wells Building, and the Skyline Century of Progress. Since 2005, it has been called Century Tower.

"Corn Products Building, Chicago, 1957" by Joe+Jeanette Archie is licensed under CC BY 2.0