Originally built for the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, which was promoting the city as progressive, up to date, and hospitable to new businesses, this building was intended to be an advertisement. Instead of out-of-town architects, a local firm was chosen. Carneal and Johnston designed a building with a splendid base of piers and columns in the Roman Doric order and handsome arches marking the portals on Main and 6th streets. The top two floors were covered in ornate, multicolored terracotta, providing a celebratory touch. Unfortunately, the cornice has been removed.