[oshkeoto]

"^ I think the residential conversion is going to make it worse. Much worse. There's talk of adding BALCONIES."

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

I hope they're big and green and po-mo. Or maybe Gerhy-style steel swirls, but with blue highlights. Or maybe something orange like the Optima stuff in Evanston.

It would be another piece of what-the-hell architecture, like Soldier Field. We're creating another architectural school.

[alex1]

I'm also a huge fan of 55 E Monroe. the texture isn't a thing of beauty in the traditional sense but it's pretty freaking immense and nice.

So far, I like The Legacy. Wish there were more smaller, detailed elements of design that would propel this to "great" building, but all in all, this is one of the better skyscrapers that have a chance of being constructed in the city.

[Tom In Chicago]

^I agree. . . I like the building, but from the current renderings it looks too much like a cartoon. . . perhaps that will change. . . for better or for worse. . .

[chicubs111]

Legacy condos: something old, something new
Posted on November 30, 2005 by Barry Pearce

Mesa Development plans to preserve facades on a classic Chicago block as it builds The Legacy at Millennium Park, a strikingly modern 73-story tower planned for 60 E Monroe St. “The base building will be on Wabash, and on the second through fourth buildings as you’re heading down Wabash, we’ll save the facades,” said Andy Warner, of Equity Marketing Services, which is selling the planned highrise. “The first is the Champlain Building, which will remain, except that we’re taking over the back part of it to be our lobby.”

None of the older buildings are landmarks, Warner said, though they are “historically significant,” like those incorporated into another Mesa project a couple of blocks north. “The facades will be maintained, as we did at The Heritage,” Warner said. “That was an additional expense to the tune of a couple of million dollars for the developer, but it really paid off. If you walk down Wabash, it looks great.”

The project’s 353 condos are tentatively priced from the mid-$300s for one-bedrooms to $4 million for a penthouse. The Legacy’s most unusual feature might be what are currently being called “sky lobbies.” Three of these green areas within the building will be located on floors in the 40s and 60s. They’ll include two-story atriums with gardens and terraces.

Some preservationists have complained that the new tower will be out of scale in a landmark district, while others have argued that saving the facades on these buildings is the imperative. How would you rate Mesa’s incorporation of the old Wabash facades into The Heritage? What do you think of the developer’s similar plans for The Legacy? We’d love to hear what people think of this and other pastiche projects, including University Village’s inclusion of historic Maxwell Street facades in its new construction. Bad cosmetics or a good compromise? As always, if you can send photos to make your point, we’ll post them.



http://www.yochicago.com/index.php/permalinks/2005/11/30/21_21

[the urban politician]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but one of the major differences between the "facadectomies" of Heritage and Legacy & Millennium Park was that at Heritage, only the facades were preserved, while at Legacy they discussed preserving the first 30 feet of each building. Sounds like a big difference to me.

Can anyone confirm this?

[pip]

I really like this building. Thanks for the good news LUKECUJ.

[Chicago Shawn]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but one of the major differences between the "facadectomies" of Heritage and Legacy & Millennium Park was that at Heritage, only the facades were preserved, while at Legacy they discussed preserving the first 30 feet of each building. Sounds like a big difference to me.

Can anyone confirm this?

I doubt the old timber-frame structures would be cut in half, with the first 30 feet preserved, especially considering the base will hold parking and athletic facilities which each have very large loads to be delt with. My guess is the same practice that occured at the Herritage will be done at the Legacy, in which just the facades will remian. However, the Tower will have a 30 foot setback, which from the sidewalk perspective on Wabash will make the tower appear to be an entirley different structure.

[supastar]

sharp!

[Chi-town]

Where does this thing stand in the approval/sales process? Does anyone know? (BVictor?)

[Steely Dan]

^ it's been approved by the city, but i don't know how sales are going. given the location (proximity to MP) and the guaranteed unobstructed grant park/lake views, i'm pretty confident about this one.

[Tom In Chicago]

Yeah. . . I receive emails periodically from the sales center but they haven't indicated how many units they've sold. . .

[jpIllInoIs]

Sight seen....Full Page ad for sales in the Chicago Tribune Sports section, Sun. Jan 1, 2006.:)

[BVictor1]

I got an email today stating that the sales center will begin to preview it's residential units on January 29, 2006.

[spyguy]

Good to hear.

[Marvel 33]

I got an email today stating that the sales center will begin to preview it's residential units on January 29, 2006.


Cool beans!

[Marvel 33]

Victor, do you know where the sales center will be for this one?

[Chi_Coruscant]

^ 18 S. Mich Ave Suite700

The sales center opens at 11 am on 02/04/206.

[BVictor1]

^ 18 S. Mich Ave Suite700

The sales center opens at 11 am on 02/04/206.

Actually, there is a grand opening event this Sunday

Please join us
for an exclusive preview of
The Legacy at Millennium Park
Advanced reservations will be accepted on
Sunday, January 29
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Legacy Sales Center
18 South Michigan Avenue
Suite 700, Chicago


The sales center for One Museum Park West opens February 4th

[Chi_Coruscant]

^Cool. So you're going on Sunday? If so, don't forget to take pictures. Pretty please???????

[Fabb]

Good new !
Hopefully we'll have more info on the design.

[Marvel 33]

Actually, there is a grand opening event this Sunday

Please join us
for an exclusive preview of
The Legacy at Millennium Park
Advanced reservations will be accepted on
Sunday, January 29
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Legacy Sales Center
18 South Michigan Avenue
Suite 700, Chicago


The sales center for One Museum Park West opens February 4th

Thanks Victor!

[BVictor1]

^ 18 S. Mich Ave Suite700

The sales center opens at 11 am on 02/04/206.

You were correct. The sales center opens the the public on this date which is the same day that One Museum Park west officially begins to market. The sneak preview for perspective buyers is tomorrow though.

[buildup]

It's a beaut! It was meant to be there and looks so good in that location.

[Chicago3rd]

Posted Wrong Place, please delete

[BVictor1]

Well, I just came from the Legacy sales center, and I must say tha business was booming. There was quite a crowd, and quite a few people putting down reservation deposits. I'd say that at least 200 of the units were reserved. They had a touch screen to see what units were available, and sales agents were passing around updates stats of what units were available to one another.

I was told that they hope to reach their quota of 50% by June, and this means actual signed contracts. 95% of the people that I saw today in the sales center were empty nesters. I saw only 2 or 3 younger people with minor kids there.

I did take some photos of the model, and I will post those tomorrow after I edit them.

It was also mentioned to me that there is another tower in the works that will be somewhere in the east loop. More information won't be available until next year, but to put it lightly, it will probably be taller then the Legacy:)

That's all for now.

[spyguy]

Seems like things are bustling over there, which is good to know.


It was also mentioned to me that there is another tower in the works that will be somewhere in the east loop. More information won't be available until next year, but to put it lightly, it will probably be taller then the Legacy:)


Another , huh? :D Keep 'em coming!

Good work once again.

[Steely Dan]

it's great to hear that the saes center was so busy.

and that bit about an even taller east loop residential in the near future is quite intriguing. the spin-off success of millennium park continues to snow-ball.

[Chi_Coruscant]

It was also mentioned to me that there is another tower in the works that will be somewhere in the east loop. More information won't be available until next year, but to put it lightly, it will probably be taller then the Legacy

*gasp* :omg:

[spyguy]

New renderings

http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/7770/legacy3ls.jpg
http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/8342/legacy20vu.jpg

A soaring beauty.

I love that second photo especially. You can see how far in terms of design we've come along these past few years with Millennium Park, the Heritage, 1 South Dearborn, and now the Legacy.

[pip]

This really is an awesome building. I hope it sells fast, like has been reported so far, and starts construction this spring.

[the urban politician]

Well, I just came from the Legacy sales center, and I must say tha business was booming. There was quite a crowd, and quite a few people putting down reservation deposits. I'd say that at least 200 of the units were reserved. They had a touch screen to see what units were available, and sales agents were passing around updates stats of what units were available to one another.

I was told that they hope to reach their quota of 50% by June, and this means actual signed contracts. 95% of the people that I saw today in the sales center were empty nesters. I saw only 2 or 3 younger people with minor kids there.

I did take some photos of the model, and I will post those tomorrow after I edit them.

It was also mentioned to me that there is another tower in the works that will be somewhere in the east loop. More information won't be available until next year, but to put it lightly, it will probably be taller then the Legacy:)

That's all for now.

^ Great news from one of my favorite new projects in the city.

Usually I prefer younger, more "hip" people in the city, but I actually like the idea that a lot of older, more established buyers will likely purchase units in this building. The Loop proper, other than the daytime office workers who whisk back to their suburban homes, needs a more established population of money-spenders beyond just the large pool of students that it has. This may eventually help developments such as Block 37 and others eventually pan out, and allow State Street to finally re-emerge as the preeminent retail strip that it once was.

[dvidler]

My guess where the new tower will be is the parking garage at the corner of Wabash & Randolph St, where there is a Popeyes Chicken & luggage store. Its only a two - three story structure and if it is designed right will have amazing views of MP & the Lake. It would basically go right in between the Heritage and the Smurift Stone building.

[Fabb]

The new renderings confirm what I already suspected : amazing project !

[Steely Dan]

http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/7770/legacy3ls.jpg


man, the legacy seems pretty damn natural in this view, kinda like its always been there somehow. this is one to get really excited about, becuase it's gonna happen.

[GuitarAce]

I did take some photos of the model, and I will post those tomorrow after I edit them.
I'm anxious to see the pics of the models. Maybe we'll get to see the actual shape of the building. All the renderings make it appear rectangular, but the floor plans show more of a pie shape with its nose cut off (so to speak).

[dvidler]

man, the legacy seems pretty damn natural in this view, kinda like its always been there somehow. this is one to get really excited about, becuase it's gonna happen.

I have to agree that this project will happen. A plus is that almost all the business' that existed on the Wabash part have lost their lease due to this.

[Marvel 33]

http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/7770/legacy3ls.jpg


That's a great view of the East Loop and the Legacy looks just beautiful!

[SevenSevenThree]

Alright, BVictor, whats up with the model shots brotha? I depend on you for these kinds of fixes. Just make sure I see these damned pics today. Thats tis all. :)

[BVictor1]

Here are the photos that I took this past Sunday of the model in the sales center. Excuse the people, they got in my way:)

The western face.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483763nu0mrj

The restored facades along Wabash.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483773nu0mrj

The northern face.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483778nu0mrj

Green roof along the top northern edge of the parking structure.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A648377%3Anu0mrj

Green roof along the top southern edge of the parking structure.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A648377%3Bnu0mrj

The western face.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A648377%3Cnu0mrj

Skygarden on the 60th floor.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483787nu0mrj

Restored facade of the Sharp Building at the southeast corner of Wabash & Monroe.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483789nu0mrj

View to the northeast.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A648378%3Cnu0mrj

View to the north of the southern face.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483799nu0mrj

Restored base of the Sharp Building along the Monroe Street side.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A64837%3A8nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A64837%3A%3Bnu0mrj

Skygarden on the 40th floor.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6492%3B%3B4nu0mrj

Photo of a rendering of a view to the southeast.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483784nu0mrj

Photo of a rendering to a view to the northeast.
http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483786nu0mrj

[SevenSevenThree]

You mustve been setting it up while I was posting. Thanks. Is it me or does this building model look chunky? Granted we havent seen these angles of it but still... Maybe my eyes arent looking at it correctly. Im not sure I like it as much anymore. I guess I still do. I dont know. Shit. Maybe I do. Yeah I like it. I think. Whatever... :)

[sentinel]

uh, beautiful pictures of the model, but the model and those previous renderings posted a few days before don't match. It seems like the model pictures show the building to be a bit bulkier...am I just seeing things?

[Steely Dan]

^ you're just used to the slim profile offerd by the front "edge" renderings released so far. the tower is wedged-shaped so it will certianly look a bit chunkier form the backside.

it's still a beautiful design.

[rgolch]

uh, beautiful pictures of the model, but the model and those previous renderings posted a few days before don't match. It seems like the model pictures show the building to be a bit bulkier...am I just seeing things?


Yes, I would have to agree.

[BVictor1]

You mustve been setting it up while I was posting. Thanks. Is it me or does this building model look chunky? Granted we havent seen these angles of it but still... Maybe my eyes arent looking at it correctly. Im not sure I like it as much anymore. I guess I still do. I dont know. Shit. Maybe I do. Yeah I like it. I think. Whatever... :)

I think that it looks chunky because you are used to seeing renderings that show the eastern face which overlooks Grant Park. I didn't a photo from that angle because there was too much glare off the plexi-glass. Think of a trapazoid, and you basically have the shape of this tower.

[trvlr70]

I love it....and also agree that it looks thicker than I imagined. Even the website photos make the building look incredibly slender.

I think it is a winner.:cheers:

[ItsConanOBrien]

This is one kick-ass skyscraper! I love the skygardens.

[the urban politician]

Great investigational journalism, Victor.

We need to get you an office

[GuitarAce]

Very unique design. Depending on what direction you view it from, it looks like 4 different buildings. It's very... uh... interesting indeed. I'm not really diggin' the way it rises out of the middle of the restored facades though. Maybe they should call it Soldier Tower.

[Steely Dan]

I'm not really diggin' the way it rises out of the middle of the restored facades though. Maybe they should call it Soldier Tower.

that's actually my single favorite part of this whole scheme.

then again, i'm also a HUGE fan of the soldier field renovation. i love the marriage of new and old.

[colemonkee]

Wow. I like this building even more now. It's classic Chicago: tall, masculine, with alternating setbacks and clear horizontal delination. Man, you guys are lucky.

[dvidler]

Its a definite go for me. If the facades are done as well as the Hertitage facades then its a homerun. I cant wait to see the model in person.

[HK Chicago]

http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483784nu0mrj

This view shows all kinds of greatness... this is a class tower based on it's contextual relationships - alot like TTC in this regard.

[Marvel 33]

It's definitely a keeper! :tup:

[Chicago2020]

Its the Sears Tower's little blue brother

[gvpeto]

So, assuming that over 100 units, possibly close to 200, have already been reserved on the first day, this one should be a no brainer. I mean the opposition group(s) that were whining about saving the facades of those old buildings don't have much clout anymore when you get that level of interest. Looking at that, I would say that it's not *if* Legacy will break ground, it's *when*. Anyone agree??

[spyguy]

Yes!

[rgolch]

So, assuming that over 100 units, possibly close to 200, have already been reserved on the first day, this one should be a no brainer. I mean the opposition group(s) that were whining about saving the facades of those old buildings don't have much clout anymore when you get that level of interest. Looking at that, I would say that it's not *if* Legacy will break ground, it's *when*. Anyone agree??

Given how well it's done on opening day, I think the correct answer would be YES.

[soleri]

So, assuming that over 100 units, possibly close to 200, have already been reserved on the first day, this one should be a no brainer. I mean the opposition group(s) that were whining about saving the facades of those old buildings don't have much clout anymore when you get that level of interest. Looking at that, I would say that it's not *if* Legacy will break ground, it's *when*. Anyone agree??

I think the "whiners" succeeded, no? And for good reason. A city without old buildings is hostile to streetlife. Even if they're only facades, the diversity at street level keeps Chicago interesting.

[gvpeto]

Soleri, I agree with you about their need to be saved. I am happy they are being incorporated w/ the building, like the Heritage. But I seem to remember the groups did not want the building built period.

[soleri]

^I see these kind of battles everywhere and they seem to have the same rhetorical pitch: all or nothing. In a sense, it's the wisdom of the hardball negotiator. Start high and slowly whittle the differences down to manageable size. I'm not suggesting NIMBYs are completely cynical, just that their concerns get juiced up as a necessary precursor to eventual compromise.

[rgolch]

I presume nothing new with this one. Just wanted to bump it back to pg1.

[kayosthery]

My Business Group Manager said they are in the process of selling units.

[STR]

Damn, I totally got that tower wrong. Oh well. It'll be nice to work on something tall after a day of working on 400 footers.

[Loopy]

^I see these kind of battles everywhere and they seem to have the same rhetorical pitch: all or nothing. In a sense, it's the wisdom of the hardball negotiator. Start high and slowly whittle the differences down to manageable size. I'm not suggesting NIMBYs are completely cynical, just that their concerns get juiced up as a necessary precursor to eventual compromise.

The same formula is used by preservationists as well.

They make a big stink about buildings that no one cares about in order to create a sense of sacrifice that allows them to save buildings that matter.

It's a grand old Chicago tradition pioneered by Saul Alinsky and the Back of the Yards organization.

[Wild Onion Mike]

The incorporation of old and new can work really well. I'm glad the facades will be saved because I'm getting a little tired of projects that consume half a block, or even an entire block with the same colors, textures, and themes. Probably a result of podium buildings without enough retail to add flavor to the street. Cities are great when they are hodge-podge collection of styles, colors, and eras.

European and Asian cities have been doing this for centuries. Maybe not frequently on this scale, but the juxtaposition can be very satisfying.

The Legacy, like the Heritage, could be the start of a long standing trend in Chicago. I'm happy to see the compromise as long as its for saving true landmarks and not knee-jerk NIMBYism.

[StevenW]

Very nice tower! I like it a lot. :)

[STR]

The fixed Legacy is in the spotlight. People having difficulty understanding the design should be especially pleased.

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/5576/da7.th.jpg (http://img90.imageshack.us/my.php?image=da7.jpg) http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/9351/da6.th.jpg (http://img90.imageshack.us/my.php?image=da6.jpg)

[beachdoc06]

Wow, that's so damn impressive. Comparing that middle section of the skyline viewed from Grant Park before Heritage was built to 2010...what a difference a few 600+ footers makes.

[Fabb]

http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483784nu0mrj



Did they add a few touches of greenery at the setbacks ?
I don't like that. This beautiful building should be purely mineral.

[ltsmotorsport]

I love that second look, STR. That vantage point is going to be killer in a few years.

[VivaLFuego]

http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483784nu0mrj

This view shows all kinds of greatness... this is a class tower based on it's contextual relationships - alot like TTC in this regard.

Could you explain these contextual relationships? I'm not an architecture student, and I very much like the building, but I don't quite follow your use of the term in regards to that shot.

[STR]

^The setbacks are related to the surrounding buildings.

eg. The first setback relates to the roofline of the building just to the south of Legacy. The 2nd to top setback refers to Mid Continental Plaza's roof.

[Marvel 33]

Wow, that's so damn impressive. Comparing that middle section of the skyline viewed from Grant Park before Heritage was built to 2010...what a difference a few 600+ footers makes.

That's kind of cool. From Grant Park you'll be able to see many of the new towers in Chicago: Trump Tower, Water Tower, Fordham Spire, One Museum Park, One Museum Park West, 340 on the Park, Legacy, the Mandarin, Aqua and the Columbian.

[HK Chicago]

http://images.snapfish.com/345%3B9676%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D32334%3A6483784nu0mrj

In addition to the related setbacks this tower presents a different face to each direction - it is literally 4 towers put together. Not much in a bubble, but well done on the skyline.

The difference in the tower's E/W faces is like the difference between, well, Michigan and Wabash. The thin, tallest part looks over Grant Park while the better proportioned face with a clear base/tower/crown fronts Wabash.

I may be making this up (I know nothing about academic architecture), but it looks like they designed 1 tower for each cardinal direction and then figured out how to put them together.

[Chicago Shawn]

That's kind of cool. From Grant Park you'll be able to see many of the new towers in Chicago: Trump Tower, Water Tower, Fordham Spire, One Museum Park, One Museum Park West, 340 on the Park, Legacy, the Mandarin, Aqua and the Columbian.

And if you took just those towers alone and clustered them together, you would have one of the most impresseve and tallest skylines on earth! Each one of those buildings alone are 500+ feet tall. We are so spoiled. :yes:

[spyguy]

http://www.suntimes.com/output/hlife/hof-news-city10s.html

High-rise planned near Millennium Park
March 10, 2006
BY BILL CUNNIFF Real Estate Reporter

Sales have begun for the Legacy at Millennium Park, a 72-story tower planned near the popular downtown park. The building will have 355 units.

A sky bridge on the 13th floor will connect the high-rise to the University Club of Chicago. The tower is designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz.

Prices range from the mid-$300,000s to $5 million. Units have 1 to 4 bedrooms. Sizes range from 875 square feet to 9,301 square feet.

"The Legacy is our sequel to the Heritage at Millennium Park," said Richard A. Hanson, principal with Mesa Development LLC in referring to another nearby high-rise.

"The international acclaim of Millennium Park -- including the Renzo Piano addition to the Art Institute -- helped to fuel the success of the Heritage and spurred the development of the Legacy," he said.

Condos will feature expansive windows and gourmet kitchens, most opening onto a terrace or balcony.

The development team also includes Walsh Investors LLC, architect Solomon Cordwell Buenz, Walsh Construction and sales and marketing agent Equity Marketing Services.

"The residences will have panoramic views of Millennium Park and the lake," he said.

The schedule calls for the building to be completed in spring 2010.

Solomon Cordwell Buenz, the architect for the Legacy at Millennium Park as well as the Heritage at Millennium Park, has designed numerous major Gold Coast, River North and downtown residential properties, including the Bristol and 340 on the Park.

The Legacy at Millennium Park, Chicago. A sales center is open at 18 S. Michigan, seventh floor. Mesa Development LLC, (312) 252-0060.

[Norsider]

Damn that's a good looking building

[TransitEngr]

I REALLY love this building. I don't know if anyone else has noticed, but it looks incredibly fragile, sleek, and dashing from Grant Park, and very strong, bold, and brutish from the loop. That's a fairly difficult architectural effect to caputure and it makes the building stand out from either vantage point. When in Grant park facing west anything that's slim and fragile looking will stand out because quite frankly nearby buildings in the East loop are so forcefull looking... standing in a skyscraper in the loop facing east it will stand out because the lake and grant park are such soft elements while Legacy's west side is so bold and powerful. Superb job they did.

The ONLY gripe I have is... why ONLY 73 floors? For such a prominent site I swear they could have sold out a 90-100 floor building.

I guess I'm spoiled by the current boom.

[Jaroslaw]

<< the "architectural effect" is a function of the shape of the building, which is a trapezoid. The west side looks to be three or four times as wide as the east side; the north and south slope about 30 degrees, so almost every unit will have some lake view. The renders don't emphasize the shape, we'll see how it looks in reality. Not too awkward, I hope. I can't think offhand of any other building in Chicago that looks like a cheese wedge. Hm, the new Sofitel?

[Chicago Shawn]

^Swiss Otel as well

[chicubs111]

Lane Bryant store on tap near Millennium Pk.

March 24, 2006

BY SANDRA GUY Business Reporter Advertisement

Lane Bryant, a plus-size fashion store for women, will open a new store at the posh Heritage at Millennium Park condo building in August to replace its existing store at 29 S. Wabash.

The Lane Bryant store on Wabash is among the retail chain's best performers, but the building where it is located is being torn down to make way for the 72-story Legacy at Millennium Park, a sister condo development to the Heritage. The Legacy will span part of the Jewelers Row district at 21-39 S. Wabash, while the 57-story Heritage is at the southeast corner of Randolph and Wabash.

The 7,000-square-foot Lane Bryant store at the Heritage condos will feature an enhanced lingerie department, said company spokeswoman Catherine Lippincott.

Lane Bryant, which sells women's apparel sizes 14 and above, will open a second store in August at 824 W. North Ave.

The retailer will debut its lingerie-only store, Cacique, at the Poplar Creek Crossing mall in Hoffman Estates in August, and in north suburban Kildeer in September.

Women who wear plus sizes are an underserved market, and they have few options when buying lingerie, Lippincott said.

Indeed, the plus-size market is expected to grow 10 percent in the next five years, according to the Mintel retail forecasting firm.

The Chicago area will see a variety of other new retail developments, as evidenced by these store openings:

*Annie Sez, a store new to the Midwest that sells designer labels at discount prices, will open a store Saturday at the Crossroads Shopping Center in Highland Park, followed by a second store at 10 S. State Street in the Loop in May. The store's parent company, Big M Inc., will also open a store for juniors, called Mandee, in the Chicago area this year;

*American Apparel, which sells casual clothes with no logos and declares itself "sweatshop free," will open its fifth store in the Chicago market at 3126 N. Broadway this spring;

*Lucy Activewear, a women's fitness apparel store, will open four new stores by fall, boosting its total in the Chicago area to five. The first store opened last fall at Deer Park Town Center. The new stores will open March 31 on Main Street in Naperville, at Northbrook Court mall in May, at Oakbrook Center in June and at Water Tower Place shopping center in October


http://www.suntimes.com/output/business/cst-fin-lane24.html

[trvlr70]

Lane Bryant store on tap near Millennium Pk.

March 24, 2006

BY SANDRA GUY Business Reporter Advertisement

Lane Bryant, a plus-size fashion store for women, will open a new store at the posh Heritage at Millennium Park condo building in August to replace its existing store at 29 S. Wabash.

The Lane Bryant store on Wabash is among the retail chain's best performers, but the building where it is located is being torn down to make way for the 72-story Legacy at Millennium Park, a sister condo development to the Heritage. The Legacy will span part of the Jewelers Row district at 21-39 S. Wabash, while the 57-story Heritage is at the southeast corner of Randolph and Wabash.

The 7,000-square-foot Lane Bryant store at the Heritage condos will feature an enhanced lingerie department, said company spokeswoman Catherine Lippincott.

Lane Bryant, which sells women's apparel sizes 14 and above, will open a second store in August at 824 W. North Ave.

The retailer will debut its lingerie-only store, Cacique, at the Poplar Creek Crossing mall in Hoffman Estates in August, and in north suburban Kildeer in September.

Women who wear plus sizes are an underserved market, and they have few options when buying lingerie, Lippincott said.

Indeed, the plus-size market is expected to grow 10 percent in the next five years, according to the Mintel retail forecasting firm.

The Chicago area will see a variety of other new retail developments, as evidenced by these store openings:

*Annie Sez, a store new to the Midwest that sells designer labels at discount prices, will open a store Saturday at the Crossroads Shopping Center in Highland Park, followed by a second store at 10 S. State Street in the Loop in May. The store's parent company, Big M Inc., will also open a store for juniors, called Mandee, in the Chicago area this year;

*American Apparel, which sells casual clothes with no logos and declares itself "sweatshop free," will open its fifth store in the Chicago market at 3126 N. Broadway this spring;

*Lucy Activewear, a women's fitness apparel store, will open four new stores by fall, boosting its total in the Chicago area to five. The first store opened last fall at Deer Park Town Center. The new stores will open March 31 on Main Street in Naperville, at Northbrook Court mall in May, at Oakbrook Center in June and at Water Tower Place shopping center in October


http://www.suntimes.com/output/business/cst-fin-lane24.html
LOL....Lane Giant :haha:

[STR]

Just a preview. The base is unfinished and therefore conveniently out of sight.

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/5815/lamp14bt.jpg

[STR]

Also, on a related note, I've noticed a great synergy between Legacy and the as yet secret (but frickin' tall) 830 South Michigan. I'll post some renders tomorrow, but they really do a great job of framing the Loop/South Loop area.

[Rivernorth]

^ dude! you friggen rock man! the texture is unbelievable... its BETTER than that first damn rendering from that angle! awesome work!

[STR]

Classic Postcard
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/3807/lamp5.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp5.jpg)

Aerial looking SW.
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/4066/lamp2.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp2.jpg)

Ground shots (left one would be my favorite)
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/821/lamp3.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp3.jpg) http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/9922/lamp4.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp4.jpg)

From Hypothetical 120th floor restaurant of Fordham Spire
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/7206/lamp6.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp6.jpg)

Sears Tower 103rd floor Skydeck
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/7538/lamp7.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp7.jpg)

A new angle - Waterview Tower Penthouse
http://img439.imageshack.us/img439/2866/lamp8.th.jpg (http://img439.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lamp8.jpg)

[rgolch]

Dude, you are unbelievable. My best understand of the future of chicago's skyline comes from you computer models.

[Marvel 33]

^ Very true indeed!

[honte]

Soleri, I agree with you about their need to be saved. I am happy they are being incorporated w/ the building, like the Heritage. But I seem to remember the groups did not want the building built period.

This reply is really late, but to set the record straight, only one of Chicago's two major preservation groups opposed this project. Their argument was based on the building's location in the landmark district. The argument (total nonsense to me) was not that the historic buildings were being reduced to mere facades, but that the building's height would somehow diminish the value of the historic district altogether. Huh? It's in the middle of downtown Chicago!!! Some of the buildings in the district themselves are 20 stories!! If they had argued about tearing down historic buildings, I might have seen their point.

The other preservation group had no official position, as the buildings were already Landmarked, and therefore the city's Landmarks Commission review committee was in nearly complete control of the outcome.

As a very firm preservationist, I think the outcome from this building is just about as good as it could have been. And the restoration of the Sharp building ground level is just whipped-cream on the cake. Now, if we could restore the Sullivan buildings around this project (it abuts Sullivan buildings on two sides)...

[Norsider]

As a very firm preservationist, I think the outcome from this building is just about as good as it could have been. And the restoration of the Sharp building ground level is just whipped-cream on the cake. Now, if we could restore the Sullivan buildings around this project (it abuts Sullivan buildings on two sides)...

Just as much as development threatens historic buildings, so does blight. It's definitely a two-edged sword. Perhaps having a shiny new building right next to some Sullivan period pieces will be a net boost to their chances of long term preservation. To me, the architectural gems in old, obsolete areas are just as, if not more, "at risk" as the historic buildings within a thriving market.

I am a preservationist myself, but I have realized over the last few years of hyper-development (and I think you would agree with this statement, honte) that being such does not require a basic attitude of anti-development. To me, this is where so many preservation groups go wrong.

[honte]

Perhaps having a shiny new building right next to some Sullivan period pieces will be a net boost to their chances of long term preservation.

Absolutely. I am not against this development in any way. In fact, I have seen some preliminary information from the Landmarks Commission that the owner of the Gage Group on Michigan Avenue (Sullivan / Holabird and Root) is planning to restore their ground floor. I'm not sure exactly how much / how good of a restoration is planned, but that's fantastic news, and it's definitely due to an influx of interest in the area from projects like this and from the park.

It would be a dream to see those buildings perfectly restored, with this great modern work rising in the background. Looks like it may actually happen?

[Chicago92]

The Friday edition of the WSJ, weekend section, had an advertisement for the building. The ad claimed the tower is now 60% 'sold' and preconstruction pricing will end soon.

[EngiNerd]

Its amazing to me how in chicago an 800' tall building can actually "blend" into the surrounding buildings. I love Chicago!

Great renderings, you have some real talent. I have messed around with 3D studio a lot, and can no way duplicate the work you are doing. Too bad every city can't have renderings like the ones you are creating.

[STR]

^It just takes some time and playing around with a few of the settings.

[the urban politician]

The Friday edition of the WSJ, weekend section, had an advertisement for the building. The ad claimed the tower is now 60% 'sold' and preconstruction pricing will end soon.

^ I love that

[honte]

MWC reports that the building "has broke ground [sic]" in their May 2006 edition. They also name Walsh as the GC.

I drove past the site today, and didn't see anything going on. But perhaps a groundbreaking is going to happen soon?

[mkdr2]

I was in the sales office Friday and was told demolition starts July 1 and ground breaking ceremony to follow. hope this is reliable.

[honte]

I was in the sales office Friday and was told demolition starts July 1 and ground breaking ceremony to follow. hope this is reliable.

Thanks, that makes a lot more sense.

60% sold, groundbreaking two months away, and completion not for a few years thereafter... That's about as good a track record as any developer could ask for. It's all very encouraging news for the success of Mandarin Oriental, Aqua, and Mesa's next (even bigger / better?) project.

[chicubs111]

Getting close to breaking ground.....

MILLENNIUM PARK, the $475 million modernist playground that opened at the edge of Lake Michigan here two years ago, has quickly become one of the city's leading tourist attractions. What is less known, however, is that the 24.6-acre park — which features a stunning stainless steel band shell and pedestrian bridge designed by the architect Frank Gehry, along with art and gardens by a galaxy of international figures — has had a transforming effect on the surrounding neighborhood.

In the late 1990's, the area, known as the East Loop or South Michigan Avenue, was a fairly sleepy retail and office district. In the last five years, however, it has emerged as one of the city's hottest residential neighborhoods with more than a dozen projects rising within blocks of the park.

According to a study commissioned by the city in 2005, the park is responsible for about $1.4 billion in residential development and for increasing residential real estate values in the area by $100 a square foot.

"The East Loop has become an incredibly vibrant asset for the city," said Lori T. Healey, the city's planning commissioner. What has been created there is a mixed-use, round-the-clock neighborhood that includes office, residential, entertainment and open space. "It's a great symbiotic relationship."

Real estate executives agree. "You've got the park, the harbor, Navy Pier, the museums and other cultural attractions and easy access to expressways and public transportation," said James Kinney, president of Rubloff Residential Properties, a real estate brokerage firm. "It's a pretty unbeatable combination."

Others believe the success of the park is contributing to a shift in housing patterns across the city. "The epicenter of urban living in downtown Chicago has been progressively moving south for the last 5 to 10 years," said Thomas O. Weeks, president of the LR Development Company, developer of 340 on the Park, a high-rise condominium building under construction across Randolph Street from the park. "I think there will come a time when Millennium and Grant Parks will define residential living in Chicago much like Central Park does in New York," he said.

(Millennium Park is adjacent to Grant Park, a much larger park to the south that is part of a chain of parks created more than a century ago along the city's lakefront.)

The most successful project to date is probably the Heritage at Millennium Park, a 57-story condominium tower completed 18 months ago on nearby Wabash Avenue with unobstructed views of the park and lake. The building, which has 357 units, sold out well before it was finished at prices ranging from $245,000 for an 800-square-foot studio to $3.5 million for a 5,060-square-foot penthouse.

"The park was the catalyst for realizing this could be a residential neighborhood," said Richard Hanson, a principal with Mesa Development, the project's developer. "I don't think the building would have been viable without it."

In July, Mr. Hanson will break ground on a second tower, called the Legacy, on a site two blocks south of the Heritage. Just over 60 percent of the 355 units have already been sold at prices ranging from $300,000 for an 875-square-foot one-bedroom to $7.8 million for a 9,301-square-foot penthouse.

The buyers for both projects, he said, are mainly "young professionals, empty-nesters and people who are leaving 4,000-square-foot homes in the suburbs and need larger units."

Susan Grosch and her husband, Tony, who bought a two-bedroom unit at the Heritage, are in the second category. Mrs. Grosch is a retired public school teacher while her husband is a lecturer in the English department at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The couple formerly lived in a lakefront neighborhood several miles north of the Loop.

"My husband had wanted to move downtown for many years and periodically would ask me what I thought of this or that location," she said. "I was never very interested until one morning he said, 'How about Millennium Park?' And I said, 'Now, that sounds interesting.' "

The draw is the neighborhood. "We love the convenience, especially being able to walk to so many of the cultural venues, where in the past we've either had to drive or take a bus," she said.

The project that has caused the most stir architecturally is the Aqua Tower, an 80-story high-rise by the architect Jeanne Gang. It will consist of a 215-room hotel and 476 rental apartments on the lower floors and 263 condos on top. The building — which is at least 50 percent sold at prices ranging from $342,000 for an 674-square-foot studio to $2 million for a 3,100-square-foot penthouse — is to begin construction this fall and to be finished in 2009.

The building has a sensuous rippling facade created through the use of irregularly shaped concrete floor slabs. Ms. Gang, a protégée of the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, said the inspiration was striated limestone outcroppings that are a common topographic feature of the Great Lakes region.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/06/04/realestate/04nati.html

[Steely Dan]

moved from the boom rundown thread:

I went to the sales center for the legacy 2 days ago, and I was told that demolition would begin sometime in July. They are about 62% sold.