CNA Center facts for kids
The CNA Center is a really tall building in Chicago, Illinois. It stands 622 feet (189 meters) high and has 44 floors! You can find it at 333 South Wabash Avenue, right in the middle of an area called the Chicago Loop.
This building is famous for two main things. First, it's known for its bright, dark red color, which makes it the tallest red building in Chicago. Second, people often notice it because it can light up its windows to show cool logos or messages on its front side. Imagine seeing a giant message made of lights on a building!
Construction of the CNA Center started in March 1970. The building was finished in 1972, and people could start using it in 1973.
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What Makes the CNA Center Special?
The CNA Center isn't just another tall building; it has some unique features that make it stand out. Its deep red color is very noticeable in the Chicago skyline. But the most fun part is how it uses its windows to create giant pictures and words.
Lighting Up the Sky
The building's windows can be lit up in different patterns to create huge images or messages. This is done by turning lights on or off in specific office windows. For example, during holidays, you might see a giant gift box design. When Chicago sports teams are playing, the building often shows messages cheering them on, like "Go Cubs Go" for the Chicago Cubs baseball team or "Go Bears" for the Chicago Bears football team. It's a really creative way for the building to interact with the city and celebrate special events.
Building the CNA Center
The construction of such a large building takes a lot of time and effort. The CNA Center was built in the early 1970s. It took about two years to finish the main structure, and then another year for it to be ready for people to move in and use. This building became an important part of Chicago's downtown area, adding to its impressive collection of skyscrapers.