The complex was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1978, at which time it still included the 3,000,000-square-foot (280,000 m2; 69-acre; 28 ha) mail order plant, the world's largest commercial building when it was completed.

The company's rapid growth created problems with the fulfillment of orders, because it had to lease space all over the city to warehouse its products.

[1] In 1904 the company purchased more than 40 acres (16 ha) of land on Chicago's West Side, and embarked on one of the largest retail development projects to date.

Sears created their own services for effective use, much advanced beyond what was required at the time, including: The company's growth continued through the 20th century, and by the 1960s it was the largest retailer in the world.

Changing trends in retail sales and methods led to a decline, and the company's mail order business was scaled back in 1987, moving out of these premises.

In 1992 a non-profit partnership organized by former Sears management began to redevelop the site, now dubbed Homan Square.

The mail order merchandise building was demolished (except for its main tower), and the land it occupies has been redeveloped to include new residences, retail, and a community center.

Included in this reconstruction effort is the massive rehabilitation of the former Sears Power House, into the Charles H. Shaw Technology and Learning Center—a LEED Platinum historic renovation designed by Farr Associates.

This building, which is an L-shaped structure six stories in height and finished in brick, housed the company's catalog printing operation from 1905 to 1926.