Barnes and Thornburg Building (Merchants National Bank Building)
-Initial floors completed: 1908
-Upper level completed: 1912
11 South Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana
Architect/Designer: D.H. Burnham & Company
Interior Renovations Architect: Schmidt Associates, Inc.
DESCRIPTION:
Burnham utilizes Louis Sullivan’s base-shaft-capital formula while adding classical terra cotta detailing in the base columns and capital. The base level features three floors of large windows separated by stone columns with Neo-Classical detailing. The shaft of the structure is brick, rising thirteen floors. Simple, clean lines create a unified design and prevent this large building from becoming overwhelming. The capital repeats the base’s Neo-Classical design with large terra cotta designs and dental work. This elegant and understated structure is a beautiful example of the timelessness of Burnham’s skyscraper design.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
Located at one of the most important intersections in Indianapolis at the turn of the century, the former Merchants National Bank was a symbol of commerce, serving major industries such as Eli Lilly, Stokley-Van Camp, and department store L.S. Ayres & Company. The structure now primarily houses the law firm of its namesake, Barnes & Thornburg; this iconic structure still encompasses the thriving business sector of Indianapolis.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
National Register of Historic Places, 1982
Style: Chicago School
Owner (past/present):
Past: Merchants National Bank
Present: Barnes & Thornburg, LLP
Materials: Indiana limestone, Brick, Terra Cotta
Additions and/or changes with date: 2013: Lobby renovations
Historic use/current use: Commercial space
Is building open to the public?: The first two levels are open to commercial visitors
Condition: Excellent
Website and/or sources of information
Further history: http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/indianapolis/merchants.htm
Research Sources:
National Park Service. “Merchants National Bank Building.” Accessed September 25, 2015. http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/indianapolis/merchants.htm
