Fisher Building Chicago | Complete Guide to 343 S Dearborn St
343 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois 60604 · Printer's Row Historic District
| Building Name | Fisher Building | Neighborhood | Printer's Row / Loop |
| Address | 343 S Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60604 | Historic District | Printing House Row District |
| Property Type | Historic Chicago Apartments | Original Use | Commercial office building |
| Built | 1896, addition 1907 | Architect | D. H. Burnham & Company (Charles B. Atwood); addition by Peter J. Weber |
| Stories | 20 (275 feet) | Current Use | Rental apartments (studio to 3-bedroom, plus penthouses) |
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Fisher Building Chicago: Photo Gallery
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About & History
About the Fisher Building Chicago
Located at 343 S Dearborn Street, the Fisher Building Chicago is a 20-story, 275-foot neo-Gothic landmark at the northern edge of the Printer's Row neighborhood. Commissioned by paper magnate Lucius Fisher and completed by D. H. Burnham & Company in 1896, it is one of the most ornamented examples of Chicago School skyscraper design.
Today the Fisher Building Chicago operates as rental apartments, with studio, convertible, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts plus penthouse residences, giving renters the chance to live inside one of the Loop's most decorated architectural landmarks.
Fisher Building History
The Fisher Building Chicago was commissioned by paper magnate Lucius Fisher and completed in 1896 by D. H. Burnham & Company, with Charles B. Atwood serving as lead designer. An addition doubling the building's footprint was completed in 1907, designed by Peter J. Weber, a former Burnham firm employee.
The Fisher Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 16, 1976, and designated an official Chicago Landmark on June 7, 1978, recognizing it as a defining example of the early Chicago skyscraper.
Architecture & Printer's Row
Architectural Significance
The Fisher Building is celebrated for its light, open steel-cage structure and its playful, ornamented facade. Notable characteristics include:
- A steel cage frame sheathed in a curtain wall of decorative terra cotta and glass
- Neo-Gothic detailing rare among Chicago School commercial buildings
- Terra-cotta ornamentation depicting fish, crabs, eagles, salamanders, dragons, and other mythical creatures — a playful nod to the Fisher name
- Wide window bays maximizing natural light for tenants
- A 1907 addition by Peter J. Weber that expanded the building while preserving its original character
The building's abundant use of glass and light-colored terra cotta was considered remarkably progressive for its era, prioritizing tenant light and ventilation over the heavier masonry styles that preceded it.
Printing House Row District
The Fisher Building sits within Chicago's Printing House Row District, a National Register historic district recognized for its concentration of architecturally significant late-19th-century commercial buildings along South Dearborn Street.
Today, the surrounding blocks combine:
- Landmark early skyscrapers
- Restaurants and cafés
- Cultural destinations
- Downtown Loop employment access
- Residential communities
It's one of Chicago's most architecturally significant streets, home to a concentration of buildings central to the invention of the modern skyscraper.
Location Overview & Nearby Landmarks
Location Overview
343 S Dearborn Street sits at the northern gateway to Printer's Row, within easy reach of:
- Chicago Loop business district
- LaSalle Street financial corridor
- Grant Park
- Harold Washington Library Center
- Union Station
- Downtown entertainment venues
The Fisher Building stands directly beneath the Chicago Loop elevated tracks, immediately across from the Monadnock Building and a short walk from the Old Colony and Manhattan Buildings.
Nearby Major Landmarks
Harold Washington Library Center
400 S State Street
Chicago's central library, offering extensive collections, public programs, and exhibitions.
Grant Park
337 E Randolph Street
Known as "Chicago's front yard," with walking paths, gardens, and Buckingham Fountain.
Willis Tower
233 S Wacker Dr
Chicago's tallest skyscraper, home to the Skydeck observation deck.
Art Institute of Chicago
111 S Michigan Ave
One of the world's leading art museums, with extensive collections of paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Dining & Coffee Near the Fisher Building
Restaurants
Eleven City Diner1112 S Wabash AveOld-school deli-style diner known for breakfast dishes, pastrami sandwiches, and milkshakes.
The Berghoff Restaurant17 W Adams StHistoric German-American restaurant serving Chicago since 1898.
Flaco's Tacos710 S Clark StLong-tenured Printer's Row taqueria known for burritos, tacos, and margaritas.
Half Sour755 S Clark StSouth Loop favorite for brunch, burgers, sandwiches, and craft cocktails.
Coffee Shops
Dollop Coffee Co.418 S Wabash AveEspresso drinks, cold brew, pastries, and workspace-friendly seating.
Intelligentsia Coffee53 E Randolph StOne of Chicago's most famous specialty roasters, near Millennium Park and downtown offices.
StarbucksMultiple Loop locations near Jackson & DearbornConvenient coffee stops throughout the financial district.
Groceries & Shopping
Grocery Stores & Daily Shopping
Trader Joe's1147 S Wabash AveFresh produce, frozen foods, organic and specialty items at affordable prices.
Target1 S State StHousehold items, electronics, clothing, groceries, and pharmacy in the heart of the Loop.
Jewel-Osco1224 S Wabash AveFull-service grocery store with pharmacy services and household products.
Shopping Near the Fisher Building
State Street Shopping DistrictChicago LoopMajor retailers, department stores, and classic Chicago shopping just blocks away.
The Shops at Roosevelt Collection150 W Roosevelt RdSouth Loop retail and entertainment destination with stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
Parks, Fitness & Recreation
Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Grant Park337 E Randolph StWalking paths, gardens, open lawns, and Buckingham Fountain.
Lakefront TrailChicago LakefrontAn 18-mile path along Lake Michigan for walking, running, and cycling.
Printers Row Park744 S Dearborn StA neighborhood park close by, with green space and seating.
Fitness Centers & Wellness
East Bank Club500 N Kingsbury StPremier fitness club with equipment, pools, group classes, and sports facilities.
LA Fitness1101 S Canal StWeight training, cardio equipment, group fitness, and personal training.
Entertainment & Cultural Attractions
Museums & Attractions
Art Institute of Chicago111 S Michigan AveOne of the world's leading art museums, with extensive collections.
The Field Museum1400 S Lake Shore DrOne of the world's leading natural history museums.
Performing Arts
Jazz Showcase806 S Plymouth CtOne of Chicago's oldest jazz clubs, founded in 1947.
Chicago Symphony Center220 S Michigan AveHome of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Transportation Near the Fisher Building
CTA Train Stations
Jackson Station (Blue Line)Dearborn & Jackson · ~0.1 milesBlue Line access to O'Hare, the Loop, and West Side neighborhoods, one block away.
Jackson Station (Red Line)State & Jackson · ~0.3 miles24-hour Red Line access to River North, Wrigleyville, and the South Side.
Quincy Station (Brown/Orange/Pink/Purple)220 S Wells St · ~0.3 milesElevated Loop station with multiple line connections, right outside the building's door.
Metra, Bus & Bike
Union Station225 S Canal St · ~0.6 milesMajor Metra and Amtrak hub serving multiple commuter lines.
LaSalle Street Station414 S LaSalle St · ~0.3 milesServes Metra's Rock Island District Line.
Bus: CTA routes run along Jackson Boulevard, Dearborn Street, and State Street.
Bike: Divvy bike-share stations throughout the Loop and South Loop, with dedicated bike lanes nearby.
Healthcare & Education
Healthcare Near the Fisher Building
Northwestern Memorial Hospital251 E Huron StLeading academic medical center offering emergency care, specialty medicine, and surgery.
Rush University Medical Center1620 W Harrison StNationally recognized hospital offering emergency, cancer, heart, and neurology care.
Schools & Education
Columbia College Chicago600 S Michigan AvePrivate college focused on arts, media, and communication.
Roosevelt University430 S Michigan AveLocated in the historic Auditorium Building; business, arts, education, and sciences programs.
Hotels & Everyday Services
Hotels Near the Fisher Building
Hotel Blake500 S Dearborn StBoutique hotel occupying the historic Morton and Duplicator Buildings, a few blocks south.
Hilton Chicago720 S Michigan AveMajor downtown hotel near Grant Park with meeting spaces and restaurants.
Banking & Parking
Bank of America Financial Center135 S LaSalle StLocated in the downtown financial district, a short walk away.
Millennium GaragesMultiple downtown locationsLarge public parking facilities throughout the surrounding Loop.
Neighborhood Lifestyle
Neighborhood Lifestyle Summary
Living at the Fisher Building Chicago provides access to a highly walkable Chicago lifestyle. Residents are close to:
- ✓ Historic Printer's Row
- ✓ Downtown Loop offices
- ✓ Restaurants and cafés
- ✓ Museums and cultural attractions
- ✓ Parks and lakefront recreation
- ✓ Public transportation
- ✓ Universities and schools
The area combines some of Chicago's most decorated early skyscraper architecture with the convenience of modern apartment living.
A Typical Day Near the Fisher Building
Morning
Coffee at Dollop Coffee Co. or Intelligentsia; a walk through Printer's Row past the Monadnock and Manhattan Buildings; commuting via the Loop elevated tracks or CTA Blue/Red Lines.
Afternoon
Downtown offices, the Harold Washington Library Center, restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Evening
Dinner at a South Loop restaurant, live jazz at the Jazz Showcase, events at Millennium Park, or a walk through Grant Park with lake views.
Who Is the Fisher Building Chicago Best Suited For?
Ideal Residents
Downtown Professionals
Ideal for those working in the Loop financial district, legal offices, government buildings, and corporate offices — the location reduces commuting time and sits directly on the Loop elevated tracks.
Architecture & History Enthusiasts
A rare chance to live inside one of the most ornamented buildings in Chicago School history, with preserved terra-cotta detailing and a storied past.
People Who Prefer Walkable Living
Restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, parks, transit, and cultural attractions are all within walking distance.
Renters & Households
First-Time Renters
With studio and convertible layouts available, the Fisher Building is an accessible entry point for renters looking to live in Printer's Row and the Loop.
Students & Young Professionals
Convenient for those connected to Columbia College Chicago, Roosevelt University, and downtown employers.
Larger Households
Two- and three-bedroom units plus penthouse layouts make the building suitable for roommates, couples, and small families.
Things To Do Throughout the Year
Spring & Summer
Spring
Walking paths, outdoor photography, gardens, and lakefront views at Grant Park; historic architecture walks past the Fisher, Monadnock, and Manhattan Buildings.
Summer
Outdoor concerts and public art at Millennium Park; the Printers Row Lit Fest and Printers Row Art Fest along South Dearborn Street; cycling, running, and walking along the lakefront.
Fall & Winter
Fall
Chicago architecture tours highlighting the birth of the skyscraper on Dearborn Street; museum visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and The Field Museum.
Winter
Ice skating and holiday events at Millennium Park; live jazz at the nearby Jazz Showcase; theater and entertainment downtown.
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages of the Location
1. Unmatched Architectural Character
Few residential buildings anywhere feature terra-cotta fish, crabs, and mythical creatures woven into their facade — a genuinely playful piece of skyscraper history.
2. Exceptional Downtown Access
Sits directly beneath the Loop elevated tracks, with the Blue and Red Line stations a short walk away.
3. Strong Walkability
Dining, coffee, transit, parks, and attractions are reachable without a car for many daily activities.
4. Range of Unit Sizes
From studios to three-bedroom apartments and penthouses, the building offers options for a wide range of renters.
Considerations About the Building & Area
Rental, Not Condo Ownership
Unlike several buildings in this series, the Fisher Building operates as rental apartments rather than for-sale condominiums, so it suits renters more than buyers.
Elevated Train Noise
Units facing the Loop elevated tracks may experience train noise; prospective residents should ask about unit placement when touring.
Downtown Environment
As with many central Chicago locations, residents should expect pedestrian activity, downtown noise, and busy streets during events.
Fisher Building & Nearby Areas Map
Nearby Printer's Row Buildings
Explore More Printer's Row Guides
Franklin Building720 S Dearborn StA 1916 loft building built for the Franklin Printing Company.
Transportation Building600 S Dearborn StThe tallest historic building in Printer's Row, built in 1911.
Terminals Building537 S Dearborn StAn 1892 Van Osdel loft building, now rental apartments.
Morton Building538 S Dearborn StAn 1896 Jenney & Mundie landmark, now part of Hotel Blake.
Pontiac Building542 S Dearborn StHolabird & Roche's oldest surviving downtown Chicago building, built in 1891.
Conkey Building519 S Dearborn StAn 1888 book-publishing landmark, historically nicknamed the Old Franklin Building.
Duplicator Building530 S Dearborn StAn 1886 printing landmark, now joined with the Morton Building as Hotel Blake.
Pope Building Lofts633 S Plymouth CtA 1904 printing-house plant, now 91 loft condominium residences.
Printers Row Lofts732 S Financial PlA 1908 printing-plant landmark, now 138 loft condominium residences.
Manhattan Building431 S Dearborn StThe world's oldest surviving skeleton-frame skyscraper, built in 1891, now 105 loft condominium residences.
Monadnock Building53 W Jackson BlvdThe tallest load-bearing masonry building ever built, completed in 1893 as the world's largest office building.
About This Guide Series
This page is part of a series of in-depth guides to historic Printer's Row buildings in Chicago's South Loop, each covering building history, architecture, and neighborhood amenities in detail.
See our Near South Side real estate guide for the full neighborhood overview, or the Loop real estate guide for the adjacent downtown market.
Fisher Building Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Fisher Building located?
The Fisher Building Chicago is located at 343 S Dearborn Street, at the northern edge of the Printer's Row neighborhood.
When was the Fisher Building built?
The original building was completed in 1896 by D. H. Burnham & Company, with a major addition completed in 1907 by Peter J. Weber.
What makes the Fisher Building historically significant?
It is celebrated as one of the most ornamented examples of Chicago School skyscraper design, with a steel-cage structure sheathed in decorative terra cotta and glass.
Are units in the Fisher Building condos or rentals?
They are rental apartments. The building offers studio, convertible, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, plus penthouse residences.
How many stories is the Fisher Building?
It is 20 stories tall, standing 275 feet, one of the tallest buildings in the Printer's Row area.
Is the Fisher Building a designated landmark?
Yes. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and designated an official Chicago Landmark in 1978.
Why does the Fisher Building have fish and animal carvings?
The building was commissioned by paper magnate Lucius Fisher, and its terra-cotta ornamentation of fish, crabs, salamanders, eagles, and dragons is a playful architectural nod to his name.
What amenities does the Fisher Building have?
Reported amenities include a hotel-style lobby, a full-body fitness center, a clubroom with billiards, and on-site retail.
Is the Fisher Building close to public transportation?
Yes. It sits directly beneath the Loop elevated tracks, with the Jackson Blue Line and Red Line stations both within a few blocks.
What restaurants are near the Fisher Building?
Eleven City Diner, The Berghoff Restaurant, Flaco's Tacos, and Half Sour.
What coffee shops are near the Fisher Building?
Dollop Coffee Co. and Intelligentsia Coffee, both a short walk away.
Who designed the Fisher Building?
D. H. Burnham & Company designed the original 1896 building, with Charles B. Atwood as lead designer; the 1907 addition was designed by Peter J. Weber.
Is the Fisher Building near downtown Chicago?
Yes. It sits at the northern edge of Printer's Row, directly bordering Chicago's Loop business district.
What makes the Fisher Building unique?
The Fisher Building Chicago is one of the most ornamented Chicago School skyscrapers, with a light steel-cage structure and terra-cotta carvings of fish, crabs, and mythical creatures unlike any other building in the neighborhood.
Information current as of publication and provided for general reference, based on publicly available historical and real estate sources. Reported details such as unit count, amenities, and historical dates vary slightly across sources and have not been independently verified by us. Distances are approximate. Photos are used under Creative Commons licenses via Wikimedia Commons, with photographer credit and license shown beneath each image. Verify availability, lease terms, and current offerings directly with the building's leasing office before making decisions.
