[BigDan35]

Oh how I wish this building was a good 200 feet taller. I love the look of it and the dark glass.

[NDPhilly]

Is this building done with building floors

[NDPhilly]

It could be a little yaller

[ritzresident]

It could be a little yaller
Are you calling it chicken? :rolleyes:

[skellergroup]

I forget, sorry.

Is there going to be any ground floor retail/restaurant in this?

Will there also be public access to the park between the hotel and RATR?

Thanks in advance.

[NDPhilly]

Sorry i ment taller

[bucks native]

I forget, sorry.

Is there going to be any ground floor retail/restaurant in this?

Will there also be public access to the park between the hotel and RATR?

Thanks in advance.

Skeller: Promos for the project tout the park as "private." Wouldn't want any riff-raff in YER yard, wouldja? Don't know about retail. Ritzres would probably know.

[theWatusi]

If it wasnt "private" I would image it becoming a homeless camp like Dilworth Plaza :(

[begoonie]

http://www.globest.com/news/1136_1136/philadelphia/169941-1.html

Arden Group Will Open $300M Condos On Time
By Casey Freeman
(Casey Freeman is associate editor of Real Estate New York and part of a three-person team now covering the Philadelphia market.)

PHILADELPHIA-Construction on the Residences at the Ritz-Carlton will be completed as scheduled, and by November residents will be able to move into their luxury condominiums, according to the CEO and president of the organization in charge of the developer. The $300 million building is located on the Avenue of the Arts in Center City.

The Residences will be finished �definitely on time,� Craig A. Spencer with the Arden Group tells GlobeSt.com. �The Residences is happy to be partnered with a top luxury hotel brand and this is unique to Philadelphia,� says Spencer. �Residents know that five-star level of quality and luxury will be maintained because its affiliation with the Ritz-Carlton. Buyers are getting the brand, the phenomenal architecture and construction, and the lifestyle.� Concrete work has been completed on 46 of the 48 stories oF the luxury building. The glass curtain wall will be finished by June, according to Spencer.

The entire building will have more than 440,720 sf, while individual unit sizes range from 890 sf to 2,045 sf. Units cost from $550,000 to $12 million for one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums and penthouses. Owners will have access to all the luxuries of the hotel, as well as their amenities such as dog walking, childcare and exclusive gyms.

[NDPhilly]

Is this builbing topped off

[Plompy Lfeata]

Concrete work has been completed on 46 of the 48 stories oF the luxury building. The glass curtain wall will be finished by June, according to Spencer.

this was in the post right above you... read a bit?

[theWatusi]

today:

http://lh6.ggpht.com/RobGerhart/SAfUL5-75DI/AAAAAAAAAao/vkD5fuTzno0/s800/IMG_0424.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/RobGerhart/SAfUV5-75QI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/GP7yRkfLmyk/s800/IMG_0439.jpg

[philliesphinest]

Skeller: Promos for the project tout the park as "private." Wouldn't want any riff-raff in YER yard, wouldja? Don't know about retail. Ritzres would probably know.

The park is private. Luckily for the residents Tiffany makes barbedwire.:haha:

As far as retail goes there has been talk of possibly a Dean and DeLuca or a similar type of prepared foods store going into that space. Also a Spa has been discussed.

[kraggman]

I see that they're half done tearing down the old SEPTA tower on the Architects Building.


http://lh6.ggpht.com/RobGerhart/SAfUV5-75QI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/GP7yRkfLmyk/s800/IMG_0439.jpg

pic by: thewatusi

[bryson662001]

I see that they're half done tearing down the old SEPTA tower on the Architects Building.


I have been watching every day from my windows.
Actually they are about 20% done and they stopped working on it two weeks ago (I think they just took the top off).........but I guess there are more important things to do first.

RATR sure doesn't have the impact that the old building had. It's too small and too dark for that spot. I guess I'll get used to it.

[giamomj]

I sure don't see how the new RATR is NOT an improvement on that ugly cement box (the late Meridian One) that basically mirrored in design Centre Square's 2 cement boxes...

Not to knock your right to an opinion or anything. :worship:

gia

:notacrook:

[giovanni sasso]

Not to knock your right to an opinion or anything.
hahaha, you're not knocking his RIGHT to an opinion, but his opinion is way off. just kidding - them's fightin words, gia. one meridian was bryson's favorite building.


i haven't seen anything about an official topping out, but maybe whats-his-face with the inside track can tell us more? from my place, it looks like it's just been mechanical structure that's gone up in the past week or so, but i haven't been watching THAT closely.

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc341.jpg

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc337.jpg

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc342.jpg

[Johnland]

hahaha, you're not knocking his RIGHT to an opinion, but his opinion is way off. just kidding - them's fightin words, gia. one meridian was bryson's favorite building.


i haven't seen anything about an official topping out, but maybe whats-his-face with the inside track can tell us more? from my place, it looks like it's just been mechanical structure that's gone up in the past week or so, but i haven't been watching THAT closely.

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc341.jpg

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc337.jpg

http://phillyskyline.com/bldgs/residencesattheritz/ratr_uc342.jpg

Great pics. One thing I notice is that pictures of the building from the ground up make it look as if it would be equal in height to City Hall's statue of William Penn. But when I see pictures of the building set against the skyline, it seems so small. Is that because they still have more floors to add??

[theWatusi]

it's not topped out yet. and I believe it will be slightly lower than Bill's hat.

[SJPhillyBoy]

To the top of William Penn's hat is 548 feet, The Residences at the Ritz-Carlton will be 518 feet when topped out (2 floors out of 48 left to pour).

[tower]

ratr will reach just around the feet of the statue of william penn when topped out.

[Yume-sama]

Are they closing, or have they, closed the other Ritz Carlton? I've stayed there, and it was very nice. I'm sure this will be even nicer when finished.

[theWatusi]

the Ritz hotel will stay as is. the RATR are condos

[bryson662001]

them's fightin words, gia. one meridian was bryson's favorite building.


If anyone has a nice pre-fire picture of Vincent kling's masterpiece I sure would appreciate it. (and it was granite.......not concrete!)

[giovanni sasso]

only cos you're funny, bubba.

http://www.philaathenaeum.org/Williams/photos/penn/0146719c.jpghttp://phillyskyline.com/misc/hibryson.jpg

the one on the right is the closest recent shot i've got.

the meridian photo is by larry williams, a long time philly-based architecture photographer, and is part of an excellent exhibition the athenaeum hosted a year or so ago. there were large prints of that photo and others, and the show is archived online here (http://www.philaathenaeum.org/Williams/index.html).

[philliesphinest]

only cos you're funny, bubba.

http://www.philaathenaeum.org/Williams/photos/penn/0146719c.jpghttp://phillyskyline.com/misc/hibryson.jpg

the one on the right is the closest recent shot i've got.

the meridian photo is by larry williams, a long time philly-based architecture photographer, and is part of an excellent exhibition the athenaeum hosted a year or so ago. there were large prints of that photo and others, and the show is archived online here (http://www.philaathenaeum.org/Williams/index.html).

Wow! What a great find.That skyline shot from Camden is almost unrecognizable. :yes:

As far as RATR goes I think it fills in that space rather nicely, a very elegant looking building.

[bryson662001]

[color=navy]only cos you're funny, bubba.



Wow is right. Holy sheet, that's gorgeous (the building and the picture) I will treasure it always. Thank You.

[blart]

From 4-18:

Makes a pretty good impact on the skyline from this view approaching the Vine Expwy-

http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w59/blart215/ratc.jpg


Less so from the Delaware river side (on the Ben Franklin bridge)

http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w59/blart215/ratc2.jpg


http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w59/blart215/sky3.jpg

[mmikeyphilly]

Bryson, The Fidelity Mutual Life Insurance Company Building, as it was known when built in 1972, happened to be my favorite, as well. The Granite facade was called "Texas Granite". Im guessing imported from somewhere in Texas? I heard that several times when they were first erecting the building.
Turner Construction were the contractors if I recall correctly.
I also remember there were 2, maybe 3 construction workers killed when a scaffold collapsed when they were placing the granite slabs. Not from high up, around the first six floors I suppose. My Mom happened to be in town at the time, and she said traffic was all tied up around the site because of the incident.
Also, about a year after the building was finished, The Inquirer Magazine had a front page news story about the building, and it showed renderings of a "twin" building proposal. The twin would face Chestnut Street, and it appeared to look like the same facade facing North. (The cool looking side.) Maybe that was one reason why the original building looked almost like RATR now, i.e. the mostly concrete facade.
Anyway, sorry for being "wordy", but that building always fascinated me.
If you google "Vincent G Kling", or "Fidelity Mutual Life Building", it will bring up those exact photos that Gio and philliesfinest posted.
I hope I wasnt being TOO redundant. :)

[bryson662001]

Bryson, The Fidelity Mutual Life Insurance Company Building, as it was known when built in 1972, happened to be my favorite, as well.
Thanks for the info. I wasn't here in '72 but shortly after arriving in '89, having looked around at what was here, I decided pretty quickly that that was "the one". I really liked the detail work with the glass set in behind the stone.

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k50/bryson662001/meridiaqClose.jpg

[skellergroup]

I took a good look at the facade yesterday and it really resembled a black version of one liberty and two liberty.

The horizontal and vertical lines really matched up well with the two giants. It will be interesting to see the symmetry between all 3 buildings when this is completed.

Bryson, that was truly a remarking building that can't be "replaced" but you have to admit. This isn't too bad :)

[bryson662001]

Bryson, that was truly a remarking building that can't be "replaced" but you have to admit. This isn't too bad :)


Yea......................I guess. Hey it could have been ......Sym-phony House. Can you imagine that?

[We Got Five]

I'll be curious to see if the glass on 1441 will be as dark as RATR - if so, we'll have sea blue colored glass from multiple angles.

[LittleMike]

I noticed that the construction top is now staggered by around 15ft or so. Does this mean the building is about top out and they are working on the final top?

I don't think the construction was staggered this much at any stage before.

[mmikeyphilly]

Thanks for the info. I wasn't here in '72 but shortly after arriving in '89, having looked around at what was here, I decided pretty quickly that that was "the one". I really liked the detail work with the glass set in behind the stone.

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k50/bryson662001/meridiaqClose.jpg

Bryson,
You're very welcome.
I often wondered what became of all of that granite after the building was dismantled.
I imagined many times if they could incorporate some of that granite into the RATR design of the building.
I've seen some of "your" renderings on SSP.
I may be asking alot, but "could" it be possible to see some fun concepts of a granite facade RATR? (hint, hint)
I suppose I like the RATR the way it is..but I guess I'll always miss that cool facade One Meridian had. :(

[philliesphinest]

It appeared this morning as if they were taking down some large sections of the concrete forms from the top of the buiding. I am guessing that the concrete work is done or close to being done. :shrug:

I think it was discussed earlier in the thread that the top of the building was a steel surround that contained all the mechanicals. I am guessing that will make up the final two floors of the building.

[bryson662001]

Bryson,
You're very welcome.
I often wondered what became of all of that granite after the building was dismantled.
:(

That's around the same time that granite countertops became so fashionable LOL The chicken or the egg?

[MJPhilly]

http://www.skyscrapersunset.com/projects/construction/ratr/images/0804-01.jpg

[newstl2020]

^Wow. I am certainly jealous. You guys are getting a real beauty here.

[kraggman]

Perfect height for that area. Nice pic MJPhilly......

[mmikeyphilly]

That's around the same time that granite countertops became so fashionable LOL The chicken or the egg?

That's true! LOL My kitchen needs to be updated, I'm still looking at this sh**tty formica! yuch:haha:

By the way...what a nice avatar you've got there!! Excellent choice!

[Pinoy2.0]

quick walk-by:

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/1703/dsc00922bnk9.jpg

[Wheelingman04]

That tower is gorgeous!!!!

[Orion1]

I remember when it seemed to take forever for this baby to rise above the ground, now it is nearly topped out!
:yes:

[alasi]

Has there been any hint at all about Mahoney's 1441 project? Looking at Pinoy's photo makes one consider the impact that would have from that vantage point.

[Lincolndrive]

Has there been any hint at all about Mahoney's 1441 project? Looking at Pinoy's photo makes one consider the impact that would have from that vantage point.

Funny that you ask about 1441 because I just heard a rumor that we are getting a Waldorf Astoria for the hotel portion. Again, its just a rumor so I have no idea if that will happen.

[philliesphinest]

Wasn't the old rumor a Madarin Oriental?

Is there really a need for that much hotel space in this city? I guess getting a big hotel name on board would be enough for construction to begin. That parking lot is such a waste of space.

[Hendi]

Is there really a need for that much hotel space in this city? I guess getting a big hotel name on board would be enough for construction to begin. That parking lot is such a waste of space.

I've started to wonder about this, it seems like between the hypothetical W and Upknot, the hypothical hotels in Cira South and ACC, the just announced Klimpton, the one in the Architects building, the new Drexel hotel, the possible 1600 Chestnut and the 20 floors of hotel in every other building proposed in the last year that at some point someone needs to find something else to do with building space regardless of how much the Convention Center expands. Also, every single one of these seems to be billing itself as being very upscale, even if there is going to be a huge boom in the hotel business why is there reason to believe that all of it is going to be at the very high end. How many obscenely wealthy people are really going to be coming to trade shows in Philly? Does the Four Seasons really have a waiting list for rooms (not in my experiance...)?

[hammersklavier]

Is there really a need for that much hotel space in this city? I guess getting a big hotel name on board would be enough for construction to begin. That parking lot is such a waste of space.
Let me see...the Intercontinental's jumped on board the 1601 Vine proposal, the Architects Building and the Robert Morris Building are both being renovated by Kimpton, Starwood wants to put an Aloft in at 15th and Locust (they've already come before the Zoning Board with it), another one in the Gayborhood (this is just rumors), a W at the lot at 12th and Arch, and a Le Meridien...somewhere. The Unknot and Stamper Square proposals feature hotel space, but I don't think any company's latched on to either one (maybe I'm wrong). Drexel's planning a hotel. And, ummm...there's that Aloft by the airport...

Bottom line is, Philadelphia's hotel scene is hot. There aren't enough hotels in the city, and with the construction boom, Cira Centre South, the Convention Center expansion, and the fact that 90% of the office space in the city's full, along with the interest out-of-town firms are newly expressing in the city, will result in the construction of new buildings (like the ACC) and will further increase Philly's hotel need.

[skellergroup]

Wasn't the old rumor a Madarin Oriental?

Is there really a need for that much hotel space in this city? I guess getting a big hotel name on board would be enough for construction to begin. That parking lot is such a waste of space.


When I got married, there was some event going on at the convention center, and there were NO rooms to block in any hotels in the center city area. None.

So with the expansion I can surely see a need for hotels in terms of volume. Though, speak of the quality of hotel needed....I don't know.

[bryson662001]

Pinoy on 4-25-08

quick walk-by:

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/1703/dsc00922bnk9.jpg

My photoshop estimate on March 9th.
I think we might be there.

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k50/bryson662001/IMG_1412-2.jpg

[winxs]

When I got married, there was some event going on at the convention center, and there were NO rooms to block in any hotels in the center city area. None.

So with the expansion I can surely see a need for hotels in terms of volume. Though, speak of the quality of hotel needed....I don't know.

I agree. On numerous occasions, I have tried to reserve blocks of rooms for out of town employees and contractors coming to work on projects for me. I have a hard time finding anything (at least at the Govt. rate). None of these hi-end hotels will *directly* benefit me, except that they may free up some rooms in some of the mid-range hotels that offer the Govt rate, such as the Marriotts. The Intercontinental will add to the pool of rooms I can use. Also, with the IRS relocating down to 30th St, mid-range hotel space in Cira 2 will get booked up fast. (In a typical Mon-Thurs, the IRS has the need for about 30-50 hotel rooms for out of towners.)

[Don098]

I'm not saying anything profound, but I think that the hotel boom is certainly needed, except I agree that the proposals are disproportionately luxurious, in fact, close to ALL of the proposals are for up-scale.

[slow-v6]

There is not enough hotels! But anyways thanks for the pictures everyone.. I havent been able to get back home since Christmass, been stuck down here in Vabeach working. The Updates and pictures help out alot.. Keep up the good work and GO 76ERS!!

[theWatusi]

yesterday morning drive by
http://lh4.ggpht.com/RobGerhart/SBTG7TAasAI/AAAAAAAAApw/t1xu8AVIu_8/s800/IMG_0538.jpg

another from my walk:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/RobGerhart/SBTG_zAasGI/AAAAAAAAAqg/_4uDSZDHwP8/s800/IMG_0544.jpg

[CondoGuru]

Great pics! It's shaping up to be quite an elegant tower imo. Has anyone at all been able to get INSIDE the building to take pics of the views and units themselves? That would be awesome. As far the hotel talk here, I would argue that there are definitely NOT enough high end luxury brands in Philadelphia. The Ritz and Four Seasons are quite possibly the lowest tier properties for both brands and have not had serious updating in over a decade. They have no true competition, so the addition of four or five new luxury brands would be welcome. I had heard the rumor of a Mandarin Oriental at 1441 was pure speculation and there was never any dialogue about that whatsoever. Let's not kid ourselves, Mandarin and Peninsula are the most high end hotel brands in the world...that's overreaching a bit for Philadelphia. Nicer Starwood properties like W and St. Regis would be great if they could actually become reality.

[adrgtr8]

you might want to count the sofitel in with your luxury hotel count

[skellergroup]

Has anybody confirmed if there is a crown lighting scheme on this?

I was at a Phillies game the other day and noticed how the RATR is really starting to demand its place in the skyline.

I am really happy the way this is turning out.

[philliesphinest]

It appears as if the concrete work is completed. I think there are 2 more floors left of steel work which is supposed to be completed by the middle of the month. :banana:

Also the Grand Opening of the new restaurant in the newly remodeled lobby 10 Arts is scheduled for May 19th. My wife and I were in there recently to check out the progresss and were very impressed. The new bar is about 4x the size. :cheers:

[Chris Graham]

I went up to see the views in the Residences about 10 days ago. They were great-- facing Dilworth Plaza and City Hall. They're telling me that closings begin in November, 2008. Has anyone heard anything about who may rent the commercial space (I believe it will be one tenant). I'll ask the sales stafff this weekend in the meantime. Being a Manhattanite, I must say Philadelphia is transforming before our eyes, despite the hovering dark clouds (the sun's behind them even if you can't see it right now). Manhattan, and to a lesser extent Philadelphia, are holding up remarkably well. That being said, the reality of Philly's future represented by the changing skyline and demographics of center city is unmistakable to anyone with some perspective and vision.

[Don098]

I went up to see the views in the Residences about 10 days ago. They were great-- facing Dilworth Plaza and City Hall. They're telling me that closings begin in November, 2008. Has anyone heard anything about who may rent the commercial space (I believe it will be one tenant). I'll ask the sales stafff this weekend in the meantime. Being a Manhattanite, I must say Philadelphia is transforming before our eyes, despite the hovering dark clouds (the sun's behind them even if you can't see it right now). Manhattan, and to a lesser extent Philadelphia, are holding up remarkably well. That being said, the reality of Philly's future represented by the changing skyline and demographics of center city is unmistakable to anyone with some perspective and vision.

Welcome to Philadelphia! It's definitely a city full of hidden gems, and here's one that many Philadelphians don't know about either just to get you started. If you enjoy classical music, the students of the Curtis Institute of Music in Rittenhouse Square give solo and chamber recitals on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings as part of their development as performers. These performances are free to the public, and because Curtis is the most prestigious and selective classical music conservatory in the entire world (surprise, it's not Julliard!), it's truly a special experience. If you're interested, you can find out more here: http://www.curtis.edu/html/20000.shtml

About the RATR progress: Brad over at Phillyskyline is reporting that the topping out ceremony is scheduled for this coming Friday, May 9th give or take a few days depending on the week's weather.

[ritzresident]

About the RATR progress: Brad over at Phillyskyline is reporting that the topping out ceremony is scheduled for this coming Friday, May 9th give or take a few days depending on the week's weather.
Don, where did brad say that about the ceremony?

[skellergroup]

These performances are free to the public, and because Curtis is the most prestigious and selective classical music conservatory in the entire world (surprise, it's not Julliard!), it's truly a special experience. If you're interested, you can find out more here: http://www.curtis.edu/html/20000.shtml

This is true. Curtis is the best in the country and one of the best on the planet. For some reason many Philadelphians do not know this.

I'm excited to see this one finish up.

[williamphilapa]

05_04_08 -

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/2002/050408amc6.png (http://imageshack.us)


http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/4756/050408fcq2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/792/050408cqn9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/5256/050408dsg2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/358/050408epq5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/2771/050408bny9.png (http://imageshack.us)

[Chris Graham]

I looked up The Curtis Institute of Music. I was very impressed-- 17% of the principal chairs and 4 musical directorships in 25 of the top U.S. Orchestras are held by Curtis alumni; over 60 alumni have ended up at the one of the world's premier opera houses (the Met)...it goes on and on. Thank you, Don, for bring the institute to my attention (especially the student recital series). I had heard about the Institute along with some other "gems" of Philadelphia but needed the reminder. As for the Residences, the photos are stunning. I received a flyer which said the topping off ceremony will be held on July 1 (probably well after the fact) and that floors 5-31 will begin taking occupancy on December 1, 2008 (after the Ritz Carlton approves in November the workmanship and quality of the Residences).

[Don098]

Don, where did brad say that about the ceremony?

It's in the text of his May 1st update...there aren't any anchors in his code so I can't send the link to you that will take you directly to the text.

Chris...yea Curtis is pretty ridiculous, and the best part about it is that they give their students a free ride. Anyway, I'm thinking that July 1st topping-off ceremony refers to when the glass is expected to be finished?

[donybrx]

The Academy of Vocal Arts is another prominent institution, much overlooked.

Curtis has many preminent grads appearing worldwide ,including piano's 'bad boy', Lang Lang, violin's Hillary Hahn, etc. Leonard Bernstein was a Curtis grad of no small consequence.

RATR sure has gone quickly (once out of the hole)!

[philliesphinest]

I believe the July 1st topping off party is for the residents of the building.

They are going to have some sort of topping off ceremony later this month, similar to what they had with Comcast (tree). I am not sure if they announced a date for that yet.

As far as December occupancy goes, I never believed that the building would actually be completed by then. I think initially they were projeting a november move in.

Still alot of work to go. I can't wait to see how the park and waterfall turn out.:yes:

[ritzresident]

It's in the text of his May 1st update...there aren't any anchors in his code so I can't send the link to you that will take you directly to the text.

Chris...yea Curtis is pretty ridiculous, and the best part about it is that they give their students a free ride. Anyway, I'm thinking that July 1st topping-off ceremony refers to when the glass is expected to be finished?

Don, as you can see below brad at phillyskyline doesn't mention anything about any ceremony, i.e. just that the building will top out around May 9:

Here's what May 1st phillyskyline says:
RESIDENCES AT THE RITZ-CARLTON: Goin' up, way up. The Residences inch(es?) near their (its?) tentative topping off on May 9th (next Friday, give or take some days and some weather) on the way to 48 floors. The glass is up to 31 floors and is now visible from Rittenhouse Square and Citizens Bank Park. The first Residences residentses move in in November of this year.

Anyway, July 1st is all i heard about for the topping off party for residence owners only. Still haven't heard about any earlier ceremony - so i don't think there is one. Glass is scheduled for completion for mid june.
Chris is correct about the Dec 1st move-in date mentioned on our flyer.

[Don098]

Don, as you can see below brad at phillyskyline doesn't mention anything about any ceremony, i.e. just that the building will top out around May 9:

Here's what May 1st phillyskyline says:
RESIDENCES AT THE RITZ-CARLTON: Goin' up, way up. The Residences inch(es?) near their (its?) tentative topping off on May 9th (next Friday, give or take some days and some weather) on the way to 48 floors. The glass is up to 31 floors and is now visible from Rittenhouse Square and Citizens Bank Park. The first Residences residentses move in in November of this year.

Oh wow, I must have skimmed it and inserted that word since it usually accompanies the words topping-off! Aren't you picky haha! The point is that it's still being topped-off by then...I think that's what everyone's concerned about.

[Don098]

No, wait a minute. I must have read that originally because I remember stopping to think "ceremony? Why would it get a ceremony? It's only a residential building..." It had to have been written there originally (4 days ago) and since changed? Did anyone else read that on the 1st, or am I going nuts???

[ritzresident]

No, wait a minute. I must have read that originally because I remember stopping to think "ceremony? Why would it get a ceremony? It's only a residential building..." It had to have been written there originally (4 days ago) and since changed? Did anyone else read that on the 1st, or am I going nuts???
well if it did then I would gladly stand corrected - no prob

[Don098]

well if it did then I would gladly stand corrected - no prob

Yea it's no biggie either way :-) I'm just glad that they're so close!

[Chris Graham]

FYI, I was told today that the vertical mid-section at the rear of the building, which is presently exposed cement, will be fully covered by the glass curtain. While I suspected that it would be covered by glass, it's a relief to have it confirmed.

[BigDan35]

Good news.

[kraggman]

Covered with glass. Thank God no tacky white paint. However, will they put some sort of undercoat on before covering? To avoid seeing bare cement when the sun is directly glaring into the glass?? :koko:

[ritzresident]

Covered with glass. Thank God no tacky white paint. However, will they put some sort of undercoat on before covering? To avoid seeing bare cement when the sun is directly glaring into the glass?? :koko:
They'll probably leave the protective film to make it appear opaque - just like they already did with the glass covering the cement rectangular pillars elsewhere. Guarantee it will be similarly opaque - pretty simple to effect.

[hammersklavier]

Nice photos. It's nice it'll be completed soon.

Just to satisfy my personal curiosity...

Was Centre Square Centre Square's original name? I know it was built by Kling the same time he did One Meridian Plaza, and it strikes me that many of the details on the extant structures--namely, the window design along the long sides--are very similar.

[Orion1]

Nice photos. It's nice it'll be completed soon.

Just to satisfy my personal curiosity...

Was Centre Square Centre Square's original name? I know it was built by Kling the same time he did One Meridian Plaza, and it strikes me that many of the details on the extant structures--namely, the window design along the long sides--are very similar.

If I remember correctly Center/re Square is the original name of Philadelphia's first identical skyscrapers. I recall Arco Corporation being a major, perhaps lead tenant in the shorter east tower.

[mmikeyphilly]

If I remember correctly Center/re Square is the original name of Philadelphia's first identical skyscrapers. I recall Arco Corporation being a major, perhaps lead tenant in the shorter east tower.

Correct, Arco was the lead tenant in the shorter tower, and 1st Pennsylvania Bank was the lead tenant in the taller tower. Gosh, seems like ages ago. Funny how the renderings looked so much better than the actual. I'm not a big fan of concrete boxes obviously.

[philliesphinest]

This plan for Dilworth plaza is pretty cool. Who would pay for it? Would it be possible to establish a group like the Friends of Rittenhouse Square to take care of it?

I would think that the residents of the Ritz that are paying a premium for those views could be instrumental in getting this done.

http://www.philly.com/philly/video/D...enderings.html

[Chris Graham]

I've heard that monies have already been put aside for the renovation of Dilworth Plaza-- and it isn't coming from the buyers at the Residences. Instead, it's more of an incentive to attract buyers to the Ritz. That being said, it's a natural and logical extension of the improvement of the development's immediate surroundings. It adds to the quality of life of Center City's residents, in particular, and of greater Philadelphia (and its visitors), in general. Simply put, it would bring a much needed improvement to the very aorta of the city. In NYC, we have, for example, Bryant Park; if you had seen how seedy and drug-infested it was prior to its transformation (wasted, devoid space), you'd agree that the funds used to restore it for the benefit of all was an intelligent use of money. To top it off, it's adjacent to one of the most beautiful and complete "public" libraries in the world--open to all curious minds free of charge. Improving public and private spaces inspires. That's what a lot of activists fail to understand when they cast the discussion of spending public money on improving infrastructure in "capitalist vs. socialist" terms alone. Development that is aesthetic and functional is intelligent (they're not mutually exclusive). It inspires and makes us want to achieve more in and from life; it pushes us to keep asking questions (see the latest exhibition on Design at the MOMA)! In the case of Dilworth Plaza, however, most, if not all, of the funds earmarked for the plaza are from private sources. Can you imagine Central Park without the support of the residents on Fifth Avenue, CPW and CPS??? We literally have a love affair with Central Park. It's cherished, it's public and we're extremely proud of how we maintain it. Volunteers spend their time after working all week to contribute; this, in addition to giving generously to the park's conservancy on a regular basis. I want to discover that spirit in Philadelphia. Private and public partnering is a win-win! Enough about being proud of underachieving and mediocracy--it's actually more stressful and damaging to you than the so-called pressures of success! It's not a sin to feel great, want greatness and demand better and better development of our habitats. Philadelphia needs to push the envelope and earn the recognition it's capable of earning (notice I didn't use "deserve"-- you have to pull it off and do it before you "deserve" it). Anyhow, that's my two-cents and then some.

[ritzresident]

I've heard that monies have already been put aside for the renovation of Dilworth Plaza-- and it isn't coming from the buyers at the Residences. Instead, it's more of an incentive to attract buyers to the Ritz. That being said, it's a natural and logical extension of the improvement of the development's immediate surroundings. It adds to the quality of life of Center City's residents, in particular, and of greater Philadelphia (and its visitors), in general. Simply put, it would bring a much needed improvement to the very aorta of the city. In NYC, we have, for example, Bryant Park; if you had seen how seedy and drug-infested it was prior to its transformation (wasted, devoid space), you'd agree that the funds used to restore it for the benefit of all was an intelligent use of money. To top it off, it's adjacent to one of the most beautiful and complete "public" libraries in the world--open to all curious minds free of charge. Improving public and private spaces inspires. That's what a lot of activists fail to understand when they cast the discussion of spending public money on improving infrastructure in "capitalist vs. socialist" terms alone. Development that is aesthetic and functional is intelligent (they're not mutually exclusive). It inspires and makes us want to achieve more in and from life; it pushes us to keep asking questions (see the latest exhibition on Design at the MOMA)! In the case of Dilworth Plaza, however, most, if not all, of the funds earmarked for the plaza are from private sources. Can you imagine Central Park without the support of the residents on Fifth Avenue, CPW and CPS??? We literally have a love affair with Central Park. It's cherished, it's public and we're extremely proud of how we maintain it. Volunteers spend their time after working all week to contribute; this, in addition to giving generously to the park's conservancy on a regular basis. I want to discover that spirit in Philadelphia. Private and public partnering is a win-win! Enough about being proud of underachieving and mediocracy--it's actually more stressful and damaging to you than the so-called pressures of success! It's not a sin to feel great, want greatness and demand better and better development of our habitats. Philadelphia needs to push the envelope and earn the recognition it's capable of earning (notice I didn't use "deserve"-- you have to pull it off and do it before you "deserve" it). Anyhow, that's my two-cents and then some.

Chris - you are so eloquent here. Thanks! But, I'm curious as to why you put so much effort on this forum. I think you should place your effort in sending your message out to the appropriate venues to actually get it done. Sounds like you can do it! Perhaps try contacting Friends of Rittenhouse Square to facilitate how it's done in philadelphia?

[Chris Graham]

Chris - you are so eloquent here. Thanks! But, I'm curious as to why you put so much effort on this forum. I think you should place your effort in sending your message out to the appropriate venues to actually get it done. Sounds like you can do it! Perhaps try contacting Friends of Rittenhouse Square to facilitate how it's done in philadelphia?
I agree and am in the process of doing just that. I've already contacted Paul Levy at the Center City Development organization and will look into modeling something similar to Friends of Rittenhouse Square for Center City. Teamwork and not unnecessarily reinventing the wheel are the goals. I don't mind volunteering my time and energy and look forward to the challenge.

[philliesphinest]

I am sure with all the new residents of all the condos in that area (Ritz, Ellington, The Grande) just to name a few there would be many people who would be willing to donate their time, as well as money, to take care of that area.

The current conditions of Dilworth Plaza are pretty bad and have to make a bad impression on the visitors as they approach City Hall. Imagine having a space that is as popular as Rittenhouse Square in the spring and summer but also being able to use it for ice skating in the winter time. I hope this gets done and will be one of the first to volunteer once it is completed. :yes:

[Lincolndrive]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Lincolndrive/res2.jpg

[Chris Graham]

Great shot of the new lobby. Can't wait to actually experience the space. There's an opening gala for the new restaurant next Monday(5/19)--just some light food and cocktails. I believe Chef Ripert's new restaurant has been named "10 Arts." I also believe he's bought an apartment on the 18th floor of the Residences. That's an interesting decision, if it's true. He's pretty global and could live just about anywhere. That he chose Philadelphia, if it's true, says a lot unless it's purely an investment (which I'm told has not been the trend at all with the Ritz buyers--it's not economical given the high maintenance, etc..). I'd like to think he chose the Ritz because he sees all that Philadelphia has to offer now and how much better it's gonna be in the near future.

[ritzresident]

Great shot of the new lobby. Can't wait to actually experience the space. There's an opening gala for the new restaurant next Monday(5/19)--just some light food and cocktails. I believe Chef Ripert's new restaurant has been named "10 Arts." I also believe he's bought an apartment on the 18th floor of the Residences. That's an interesting decision, if it's true. He's pretty global and could live just about anywhere. That he chose Philadelphia, if it's true, says a lot unless it's purely an investment (which I'm told has not been the trend at all with the Ritz buyers--it's not economical given the high maintenance, etc..). I'd like to think he chose the Ritz because he sees all that Philadelphia has to offer now and how much better it's gonna be in the near future.

the opening gala is only open to invitees. chris, is your D unit on that floor too? And, are you buying to live there or as an investment?

[Chris Graham]

I'm planning on living in Philadelphia. I'll be commuting to Manhattan on Amtrak. I should only have to commute a few days a week though. I'd like to open a second office in Center City. I'm below that floor....well above the treetops with an unobstructed view of Dilworth Plaza, City Hall and the clock tower. I can even see the Wanamaker building if I stand near the window and look to my right (due to that one window that wraps around to the right if you're looking out from the living room). Which floor are you on and will you call the Residences home?

[Lincolndrive]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Lincolndrive/res3.jpg

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Lincolndrive/res4.jpg

looks like she's topped out huh?

[Hendi]

I was noticing that today too, to my untrained eye it looks like all the concrete is done.

[ritzresident]

I was noticing that today too, to my untrained eye it looks like all the concrete is done.

Yup they removed the concrete pumps

[Chris Graham]

kitchens already going in on the lower floors. let's pray Balducci's signs a lease for the commercial space...think how convenient that would be for "ten arts". are there farmer's markets in center city during the summer? also, i saw some drawings for a new building much taller than the comcast building...i think it's called "commerce center"...?? it looks incredible if it were ever built.

[Hendi]

Yup, in fact yesterday was day one of the farmer's market in the City Hall court yard which will be right across the street. There are also farmer's markets in Rittenhouse, Fittler, and Headhouse squares and I'm sure a few more that I'm forgetting. Not to mention of course Redding Terminal only a few blocks away.

[We Got Five]

Hi Chris,

You are referring to the American Commerce Center, proposed for 18th and Arch (1,500 ft). You can research the project further under the "super-tall proposals" section. Also, you may have a neighbor rising just behind you...(1441 Chestnut Street is proposed on the empty lot behind RATR). There have been indications in recent PBJ articles that the hotel portion could be underway shortly.

[Don098]

Chris...yea Reading Terminal Market is really awesome. It's right above SEPTA'S Market East station in underneath the old Reading Terminal which is now a wing of the PA Convention Center. You'd never know it's there if you weren't looking for it but it's a market as large as a city block with some famous eateries. The Amish bring in a lot of their produce and Pennsylvania Dutch foods. My favorite place is Salumeria...the best sandwiches/hoagies I've ever had I think. It's another gem that's unfortunately not very visible, but it's also nice because it doesn't get clogged with tourists which might befall something of this caliber in NYC. (P.S. The cheese steak place in there is probably my least favorite in the entire region).

Is there an estimate for when the glass will be finished (obviously excluding the strips for exterior industrial elevators)?

[Chris Graham]

I didn't know about the farmers markets....that's great news. Reading Terminal I have been to and I love it! About the American Commerce Center....I sure hope they build it. The fact that they're talking about it and have plans I think bodes well for Philadelphia's skyline. As for 1441 Chestnut, I'd like to see something built there and hopefully something that adds to the skyline and is important from an Architectural standpoint. Don, I'm not sure when they'll finish the glass but it looks like it'll happen in June for sure given how fast they're moving. By the way, as I'm sure most of you know, the Center City District/Central Philadelphia Development Corporation's website has been a great source of information for me...www.centercityphila.org/. I contacted Mr. Levy, the President of CCDC, and was told that the Dilworth Plaza renovation plans are on track and bids should be going out in early 2009. I mentioned to Mr. Levy that I found the idea a little similar to Bryant Park here in Manhattan and he told me that the firm who drafted the plans for Dilworth Plaza, Olin Partners, designed the renovations for Bryant Park...go figure. What's more, Olin Partners is a Philadelphia-based firm. Chalk another one up to Philadelphia. I plan to join as a member as soon as I'm physically relocated in Philadelphia-- by year end.

[ty malone]

Don ...

Salumeria at Reading Terminal Market makes my favorite turkey hoagie in the city ... that magical special sauce (kind of a caesar dressing and something else), provolone, lettuce, pepper and balsamic ... i might have to go today ... thanks a bunch for reminding me that i miss that sandwich ...

[techchallenge]

Don ...

Salumeria at Reading Terminal Market makes my favorite turkey hoagie in the city ... that magical special sauce (kind of a caesar dressing and something else), provolone, lettuce, pepper and balsamic ... i might have to go today ... thanks a bunch for reminding me that i miss that sandwich ...

'House Dressing' : It goes on my favorite italian hoagie in the city, replete with artichoke hearts.

[ritzresident]

'House Dressing' : It goes on my favorite italian hoagie in the city, replete with artichoke hearts.

now you guys have me curious - am going to try the turkey hoagie at salumeria.