Nestled in the heart of downtown Cleveland, Ohio, stands a beacon of Victorian-era grandeur and architectural ingenuity: The Arcade. Opened on Memorial Day in 1890, this historic structure is not just a monument to the past but a living, breathing piece of history that continues to enchant visitors and locals alike. As one of the first indoor shopping arcades in the United States, The Arcade remains a testament to the vision and ambition of its creators and the city’s enduring spirit of innovation and community.

The Architectural Grandeur of The Arcade

Historical Background

The Arcade’s story begins in the late 19th century, a period marked by rapid industrial growth and architectural experimentation in the United States. Built in 1890 by the Detroit Bridge Co., under the guidance of Stephen V. Harkness, The Arcade was a marvel of its time. With a staggering cost of $867,000 (equivalent to approximately $28,200,000 in 2024 dollars), it showcased the ambition and financial might of Cleveland’s elite. Financed by some of the most prominent figures of the day, including John D. Rockefeller, Marcus Hanna, and Charles F. Brush, The Arcade was more than a building; it was a symbol of prosperity and progress.

Design and Inspiration

The minds behind this architectural masterpiece were John Eisenmann and George H. Smith, who envisioned The Arcade in Cleveland as a blend of function and aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy, they created a structure that was both a shopping destination and a visual spectacle. Comprising two nine-story towers connected by a five-story arcade, The Arcade was a bold experiment in design. Its central feature, a 100-foot high glass skylight made of 1,800 panes of glass, stretches over 300 feet, illuminating the interior with natural light and creating an airy, open atmosphere that was revolutionary at the time.

Architectural Features

The Arcade’s architectural features are a testament to the ingenuity of its creators. The building’s façade, with its Richardsonian arched entrance of Hummelstown brownstone along Superior Avenue, retains its original grandeur despite the passage of time. The 1939 remodeling of the Euclid Avenue entrance by the firm of Walker and Weeks added modern touches while preserving the building’s historical integrity. Inside, the Arcade reveals its true splendor: four levels of balconies ring the 300-foot-long covered light court, their vertical columns rising nearly 100 feet to the glass roof, creating a sense of spaciousness and grandeur rarely seen in modern architecture.

This architectural marvel not only served as a commercial hub but also became a cherished landmark in Cleveland’s urban landscape. Its design and execution mark a significant moment in the city’s history, showcasing the ambition and creativity of its people.

Transformations Over Time

The Arcade’s journey through time is a narrative of adaptation and preservation, reflecting the broader changes in Cleveland’s urban and economic landscape. From its inception as a pioneering shopping arcade to its present incarnation as a mixed-use space, The Arcade has undergone significant transformations that have both honored its heritage and embraced new functions.

Modifications and Restorations

In 1939, The Arcade saw its first major modification. The Euclid Avenue entrance was remodeled, and structural supports were added, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and architectural integrity. These changes were sensitive to the original design, ensuring that The Arcade’s historic character was preserved while meeting contemporary needs.

The turn of the millennium marked another significant chapter in The Arcade’s history. In 2001, the Hyatt corporation undertook a bold redevelopment project, transforming The Arcade into Cleveland’s first Hyatt Regency hotel. This redevelopment was a delicate balancing act, integrating hotel accommodations and modern amenities with the building’s historic fabric. The top three floors of the atrium area were repurposed for hotel use, while the two lower floors continued to welcome the public with retail merchants and a food court. Additionally, the Hyatt’s lobby and offices found a home near the Superior Avenue entrance, breathing new life into the historic structure. That same year, the skylight, a defining feature of The Arcade, was replaced, ensuring that this architectural gem would continue to dazzle visitors with its natural light-filled atrium.

The Arcade Today

Today, The Arcade stands as a vibrant example of Cleveland’s capacity for innovation and reverence for its past. It serves as a bustling hub of activity, housing not only the Hyatt Regency hotel but also an array of shops, eateries, and public spaces that welcome visitors from near and far. This blend of historical architecture and modern functionality makes The Arcade a unique destination in downtown Cleveland, offering an immersive experience that bridges two centuries of urban development.

The ongoing use of The Arcade as a commercial and hospitality space is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary needs. As a focal point of downtown Cleveland, The Arcade continues to be a place where history and present-day Clevelanders meet, showcasing the city’s resilience and its ever-evolving identity.

The Arcade’s Place in History

The Arcade’s significance extends beyond its architectural beauty and commercial utility; it occupies a crucial place in the narrative of American urban development and the preservation of historical sites. Its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1975 underscores its importance as a cultural and architectural treasure, not only to Cleveland but to the nation.

National Historic Landmark

The recognition of The Arcade as a National Historic Landmark was a pivotal moment in its history, highlighting its role as one of the pioneering indoor shopping arcades in the United States. This designation is reserved for buildings, sites, and structures that possess exceptional value to the American heritage. The Arcade’s inclusion in this distinguished list reaffirms its architectural and historical significance, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It stands as a proud emblem of Cleveland’s rich architectural tradition, a tradition characterized by innovation, elegance, and a deep respect for the past.

Influence on Other Architectures

The architectural design and concept of The Arcade have served as an inspiration for other structures across the United States. One notable example is the Peachtree Arcade in Atlanta, constructed in the 1910s. The Arcade’s success and aesthetic appeal demonstrated the potential of indoor shopping spaces, influencing the design and development of similar arcades. This legacy of inspiration is a great example of The Arcade’s importance in the evolution of commercial architecture, showcasing its role as a model for blending utility with beauty.

The Cultural and Social Impact

The Arcade has played a pivotal role in the social and cultural life of Cleveland. As a bustling hub of commerce and activity, it has been a gathering place for people from all walks of life. Over the decades, it has witnessed the ebb and flow of the city’s fortunes, adapting to changing times while maintaining its identity as a cherished landmark. Its continued popularity among residents and visitors alike speaks to its ability to foster community and connectivity in an ever-changing urban landscape.

The Future of The Arcade

Looking ahead, The Arcade’s future appears bright, buoyed by Cleveland’s commitment to its preservation and adaptive reuse. As the city evolves, The Arcade remains a constant, a link to Cleveland’s past and a beacon for its future. Its ongoing role as a commercial and cultural hub ensures that it will continue to be an integral part of the city’s fabric, inviting new generations to discover its charm and historical significance.

Celebrating Architectural and Historical Significance

The Arcade’s journey from its inception in 1890 to its role today as a dynamic mixed-use space showcases the enduring appeal of places that blend historical significance with contemporary relevance. Its designation as a National Historic Landmark underscores the architectural and cultural importance of preserving such spaces, not just for their aesthetic value but for their ability to tell the stories of the past to future generations.

Invitation to Experience The Arcade

For those who have yet to walk beneath its glass skylight, The Arcade awaits with its timeless charm and history. It invites visitors to explore its corridors, shop in its stores, and simply bask in the ambience of a bygone era that continues to thrive in the heart of Cleveland. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply in search of a unique experience, The Arcade offers a window into the city’s past and a glimpse of its future.

The Arcade’s story is far from over. As it continues to adapt and thrive, it stands as a proud symbol of Cleveland’s resilience and creativity. Its doors open to the next chapter, welcoming all who wish to partake in its enduring legacy.