Majestic Theatre Building
 
Majestic Theatre Building, Chicago, Illinois
postmarked 1909
 
Colin Kaiser, Director of Sales of the new Hampton Majestic Hotel, has graciously shared the following  history of the Majestic Building and the story of its renovation. Link to the Hampton Majestic Hotel.

"Prior to the building's construction in 1905, the Newport Hotel and Gambling House occupied the same real estate until the four story structure was razed in 1904. The gambling house was shut down by Matt Pinkerton, of the famous Pinkerton Detective agency, during the era when the city saw an increase in gambling.

"Then in 1905, one of the most celebrated Architects of the era, Edward Krause, was retained to design the Majestic Office Building and Theatre. Constructed in the popular Beaux Arts style, and influenced by neoclassical Roman and Greek architecture, the Majestic was originally built as a mixed use theatre and office building.

"Notable tenants to the building included the State's Attorney, the architect, Edward Krause, and the Lord and Taylor Sales Office. Celebrities such as Harry Houdini and Lily Langtry graced the theatre's stage during the height of Vaudeville. In later years, the stage became well-known with performances of Guys and Dolls, South Pacific, and Carousel. More recently, the theatre has seen performances of shows such as Spamalot, Rent and Movin' Out.

Other key highlights:

"Our 18-month restoration in 2005 involved an expenditure totaling close to $20 million, adding guestroom comforts, luxuries and advances in technology for a superb new presentation. Guests at this Theatre District hotel can savor the history and soul of Chicago. While the Hampton Majestic's original 1906 style architecture still embodies elements of the history of Chicago , its stylish décor nestles guests in an accommodating, stimulating environment that is both modern and comforting.

"The Art Deco inspired design for hotel was informed by the period of the building, the glamour and elegance of the theatre, and the appropriateness of a style that is as timelessly contemporary today as it was at the turn of the century.  The colors are rich and sophisticated in a palette of deep burgundy woods, dramatic burnt reds, plush dark coffee mohair and velvets, clean chrome and silver accents, and crisp white bedding.  This palette further compliments the soaring ceiling heights and retained historic finishes throughout the property.

"The Guestroom and Registration artwork, by local photographer Rhonda Holcomb, includes a series of architectural photographs of the theatre building taken prior to the renovation that focuses on the original details throughout the structure.  Broadway in Chicago has partnered with First Hospitality Group to make photography from their popular stage productions, as well as actual show Playbills available as artwork in the Lobby and Reception Areas. "

Old Places



HOME  |   ARCHITECTS  |   TOUR BY STREET OR CATEGORY  |  SITE MAPSEARCH