richard nickel images of adler & sullivan's victoria hotel before, during, and after its demolition

richard nickel's extensive visual record of building demolitions and/or salvages in and around chicago during the height of urban renewal is truly remarkable.

every time i take on another "project" within his archive, i'm taken aback by his dedication to thoroughly document a building before, during, and after its death, along with salvaging any and all ornament extracted from it during its demolition.

the following images were taken in early 1961 of adler & sullivan's victoria hotel (1892-93) before it was destroyed by fire (only days before its scheduled demolition). the exterior ornament was designed by frank lloyd wright, who left the firm shortly before the hotel was completed.