The Promontory Apartments building in Hyde Park was designated as an official City of Chicago landmark by City Council today.

Built in 1949 at 5530-32 S. Shore Drive, the 22-story high-rise designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe is among the country’s first examples of the International Style of architecture. The building’s simple, “less is more” design and materials forgo traditional stylistic forms and ornamentation in favor of exposed concrete columns and beams, brick and glass walls, and a glass-walled lobby.

Developed by Herb Greenwald, the building was the first high-rise residential buildings to be constructed in Chicago since the start of the Great Depression.

The landmark designation, which was recommended by the Landmarks Commission in October, will protect the building’s exteriors and lobby from significant alteration or demolition.

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