Is This Really Illinois' Ugliest Building? One Website Says So

CHICAGO, IL — Chicago boasts an illustrious architectural legacy thanks to the notable contributions over the years of Thomas Beeby, Bruce Graham, Kisho Kurokawa and, of course, Frank Lloyd Wright. But not all of the city's buildings are considered crown jewels. In fact, one structure is a downright lump of coal, according to the readers of one financial news website.

The James R. Thompson Center was named the ugliest building in Illinois by Business Insider readers, the website revealed this week. The dubious distinction for the 17-story, glass structure at 100 W. Randolph St., in the Loop is part of the online outlet's list of unattractive architecture in each state as chosen by the site's readers.

The Thompson Center wasn't the only Chicago building cast in an unfavorable light from the Business Insider's spotlight. Readers also threw some shade in the direction of the iconic Mariana City buildings. The complex's twin, cylindrical towers along the Chicago River received a dishonorable mention, along with Northwestern University's library in Evanston, on the website's list.

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Designed by Helmut Jahn, the Thompson Center opened as the State of Illinois Center in May 1985, serving as a second capital of sorts for the governor and state lawmakers. In 1993, the building was renamed for the late Illinois governor.

Along with its curved design and all-glass exterior — aspects that Business Insider readers apparently consider bugs, not features — the Thompson Center is notable for its expansive atrium and open floor plan. "Monument With Standing Beast," a 10-ton, 29-foot sculpture by Jean Dubuffet, also stands in front of the building.

In February, Chicago police Cmdr. Paul Bauer was tragically shot and killed outside the Thompson Center following a foot chase involving a man officers wanted to question during a narcotics sweep. Shomari Legghette faces murder, gun and drug charges stemming from the shooting.

Go to Business Insider for the news site's complete list of the ugliest buildings in each state as chosen by the outlet's readers.

YOUR TURN: Do you think the James R. Thompson Center deserves the title of ugliest building in Illinois, a distinction given by the readers of Business Insider? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section.

Chicago's James R. Thompson Center (Photo via Shutterstock)