PNC Tower (Central Trust Tower, Union Central Life Insurance Building)
When constructed, it was the tallest building in the US outside of NYC and the fifth largest building in the world. The building is a representation of a classic tripartite form of base, shaft and cap with a Grecian temple as the cap.
Current OwnerPNC Bank
Unique FeaturesThe building follows the classic tripartite form of base, shaft and cap. The greek temple form that tops the building was based on the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Since the style of the building is not consistent with Cass Gilbert's work at that time, it was rumored that the project was design by Garber & Woodward with Gilbert lending his name to the project.
Associate ArchitectGarber & Woodward
Original OwnerUnion Central Life Insurance
Completion Date1913
Original FunctionOffice building
StyleNeo classical
ArchitectCass Gilbert, the New York-based architect who designed the Woolworth Building in New York City and the US Supreme Court Building in Washington, DC.
1 W. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Renovation History
1939 : Expansion added to the west on Fourth Street
ArchitectFrederick W. Garber & Associates