Carson Pirie Scott
1 S State St
Chicago, IL 60603
One of the most-photographed buildings in Chicago is the Carson Pirie Scott department store. Located at State and Madison Streets (the zero point from which all addresses to the north, south, east and west are measured), it was designed by architect Louis H. Sullivan in 1899.
Originally called the Schlesinger and Mayer Store, the structure represents Sullivan's axiom: "Form follows function." The first two stories are adorned with cast iron, molded into a lavish pattern of leaves, berries, flowers, vines and geometric forms. This distinctive ironwork has gone through several color changes. It was gilded in 1955, painted black the following year, painted gray in 1962 and restored to its original green glory in 1979. The cylindrical, corner-entry pavilion is typical of larger turn-of-the-century buildings.
Carson's is a popular stop with State Street shoppers. Not quite as pricey as its neighbor Marshall Field's, Carson's carries a vast array of designer clothing, jewelry, linens, furniture and housewares. The departments have very different atmospheres, from the MTV vibe of Metropolis to the classic elegance of the 4th floor bridal salon. Visitors wanting to pamper themselves can stop in the Elizabeth Arden spa for a variety of beauty treatments. Carson's also provides courtesy services such as gift-wrapping, shoe repair, dry-cleaning and Ticketmaster.
The Wall Street Deli on the Corporate Level serves soup, sandwiches, salads and pasta. Folks with a sweet tooth might want to proceed directly to the Cream City Café at the Wabash entrance, for tempting bakery goods and espresso.