Thursday, May 28, 2009

Indecision at Bank of America

It's unfortunate, but somewhat understandable, when tourists call the John Hancock Center the "John Hancock Tower."  Names are important because the John Hancock Tower  actually exists... in Boston.

It's more curious when a company gives the same building multiple names.  Such is the case in the heart of Chicago's financial district where 135 South LaSalle is the Bank of America Building .  Or is it?

The building, originally known as the Field Building, was known as the LaSalle Bank Building when Bank of America ate one of Chicago's last hometown banks.  But something has gone amiss in labeling the building.

Witness what is written at the top of the building's retail directories:

So, it's not Bank of America Building, then?  It's Bank of America Center?  Let's consult what's written above the LaSalle Street doors for a second opinion:


Oops!  I guess it's "Building" after all.  It certainly makes sense to go with what's written on the door instead of the header of a glorified mallmanac.  Until you look at the Jackson Street entrance:


We should probably just stick with calling it "135 South LaSalle" until the bank can figure out what it wants to do.

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