[12] It originally was proposed to be 96 feet (29 m) higher, but was scaled back after determining it would be a hazard to flights leaving Dallas Love Field.

[13] By choosing a site with lower elevation, the tower, even with a modified height, was still taller than rival bank's Republic Center.

Construction was handled jointly by Robert E. McKee, Inc. and Henry C. Beck Co.[14] At the time of opening in 1965, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River, until surpassed by 555 California Street in San Francisco in 1969.

The white columns running up the tower contain Plexiglas mullions that house fluorescent lights, which were once turned on every night.

[17] At ground level the building features a long pedestrian arcade flanked by retail space connected Elm Street and Pacific Street, and the building was later connected to the Dallas Pedestrian Network when the adjacent Renaissance Tower was opened in 1974.

An 800-space garage was located on the lower two levels, and was the largest single parking facility in Dallas at the time.

[17] The second floor contained the "Money Tree", a 20-foot-wide (6.1 m) mural designed by Alma Shon made of 8,500 coins and carved wood.