Carew Tower
A multi-use complex, the Carew Tower, Netherland Plaza Hotel, automated parking garage, and retail arcade are at the heart of Cincinnati. Built at the beginning of the Depression, the complex was constructed using WPA funding in just under a year and a half, but the 48 story office tower was completed and occupied in less than a year. The Carew Tower remained the tallest building in Cincinnati until the construction of the Great American Tower completed in 2011.
Historic StatusListed on the NRHP on August 5, 1982
Unique FeaturesThe original complex included an automated 28-level parking garage. The elevator system would lift the car from the entry level to a vacant space on an upper level and deposit the car. Both innovative and unreliable, the automated system was replaced by a manned system due to its frequent break downs. The garage was demolished in the 1980s due to corrosion of the steel structure caused by road salt.
Associate ArchitectDelano & Aldrich
Public AccessThe Emery arcade is open to the public and connects Vine to Race.
Completion Date1930
Original FunctionOffice building
StyleAmerican Modern with Art Deco motifs
ArchitectWalter Aeschlager
441 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202