This building is a fine example of a Beaux-Arts classical design, built at the height of its popularity and that of the City Beautiful movement, which the style embodied. Marshall and Fox translated Northwestern Mutual’s business success into high-quality materials and craftsmanship for its headquarters. Huge Corinthian columns made of granite front the green terra-cotta wall at the main facade. Giant pilasters line the side walls. Cast and extruded bronze entrance doors and exquisite lampposts flank the front steps. The use of classical elements not only evoked the popular City Beautiful movement, but also suggested that this office building was a temple guarding each client in sacred trust.