Heard Building

In the heart of downtown Phoenix, the Heard Building stands as a testament to the city’s early 20th-century architectural ambitions. This seven-story high-rise, completed in 1920, was not only the first of its kind in Phoenix but also held the title of the tallest building in Arizona for several years. Its rich history and unique features make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Valley of the Sun.

The Birth of a Landmark

The construction of the Heard Building began in 1919, spearheaded by Dwight B. Heard and the Commonwealth Investment Company. Designed by architect Llewellyn Adelbert Parker, the building was intended to house Heard's investment and publishing ventures. Parker, known for his work on other notable structures in the area, infused the building with a sense of modernity and durability, opting for a reinforced concrete frame—a decision influenced by the devastating fire that had previously consumed the Adams Hotel.

The building’s construction was a community effort, with local contractors like James William Martin overseeing the project. The plastering was completed by Scottish contractor Duncan MacDonald and his team, who worked diligently for eight months to bring the building to life. When it finally opened its doors in 1920, it marked a new era for Phoenix, showcasing the city’s growth and potential.

Home to Iconic Publications

Upon its completion, the Heard Building became the headquarters for the Arizona Republican newspaper, which later evolved into The Arizona Republic. The building's first floor and portions of the basement buzzed with the activity of journalists and editors, while the printing press equipment hummed away, producing the daily news for the city’s residents.

In 1930, the Arizona Publishing Company expanded its operations by acquiring the Phoenix Gazette, bringing its employees into the bustling offices of the Heard Building. This period was marked by a reconstruction project in 1937, which modernized the facade and expanded the office spaces. The renovation included the installation of automatic leveling elevators and an upgraded air conditioning system, keeping the building at the forefront of technological advancements.

Broadcasting from the Sky

In an era when radio was king, the Heard Building also became a hub for broadcasting innovation. In 1929, the Arizona Republican and the Electrical Equipment Company of Phoenix established the KAR Broadcasting Company, which took over and upgraded radio station KFAD. By January 1930, the station had transformed into KTAR, with its studios and transmitter located on the seventh floor of the Heard Building.

The building’s rooftop became a landmark in its own right, with two 180-foot towers supporting the station's antenna. This setup allowed KTAR to reach audiences across Arizona and the Southwest, cementing the Heard Building’s role in the region’s communication landscape.

A Cultural Icon

The Heard Building’s significance extends beyond its architectural and technological contributions. It has also made its mark in popular culture, appearing in the opening sequence of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 film Psycho. This brief appearance highlighted the building’s prominence in the Phoenix skyline, making it recognizable to audiences around the world.

In 1922, the building hosted a daring stunt by Bill Strother, known as the Human Spider, who climbed its facade and perched atop the flagpole, thrilling onlookers and adding to the building’s storied history.

Artistic Endeavors

In recent years, the Heard Building has embraced its artistic side. In February 2018, the Swiss artist duo NEVERCREW was commissioned to create a series of mural paintings on the building’s walls. Titled El oso plateado and the machine, these murals pay tribute to the building's past and the extinct Mexican grizzly, adding a layer of contemporary art to its historic facade.

Today, the Heard Building stands as a vibrant piece of Phoenix’s architectural and cultural tapestry. Its walls echo the stories of the city’s growth, innovation, and artistic expression, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to explore the rich history and dynamic present of Arizona’s capital.