Capturing a couple of interesting buildings in Cedar Rapids

The Veterans Memorial Building is quite striking, towering above two of the main roads across the Cedar River. Located on Mays Island, this building is also City Hall. The flame at the top reminded me of the torch on the Statue of Liberty. Below the torch, the row of columns also clearly says municipal building.

I believe that I've heard that the window in the arch at street level is quite impressive from inside. Unfortunately, it wasn't open to get to see it for myself to that will have to wait for another day.

Located a couple of blocks from City Hall is the bank formerly known as Peoples Savings Bank. The second of Louis Sullivan's eight jewel box banks stands as a nice reminder of another time. The original structure used fifteen different shades of brick to create a visual texture with "the effect of an antique Oriental rug." The terra cotta details on the exterior are really quite intricate and beautiful. Click here to see images from the restored interior.