The 12-story Benjamin Marshall-designed terra cotta landmark known as the Uptown National Bank building has been the property of Bridgeview Bank Group since 2003. Soon after the acquisition, Bridgeview made the weird decision to close the incredibly beautiful lobby (featured in Public Enemies and Babe) to retail functions, opting to build a street-level addition for customers. Apparently, the inconvenience of stairs was enough to prompt the change. "We thought it was very inaccessible for people," Bank Chairman Peter Haleas said of the lobby. "We actually thought it was inhibitive." In the video, Haleas adds that he'd like to see a better use for the space beyond backroom office functions. What that means for access is unclear. [Crain's, photo: Mark Susina/Flickr]
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