The Clare at Watertower - 595'/50 fl (Com)

[northsidesoxfan]

Height: 595 ft
Floor count: 50
Location: East Pearson and North Rush
Construction end: 2008
Architect: Perkins + Will
Developer: Greystone Communities, Inc.

Website (http://www.theclareatwatertower.com/)

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/3231/clareatwatertowerii0.jpg
http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/9387/clareatwatertower2oa6.jpg
http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/3084/claremodelms2.jpg
http://images.snapfish.com/342%3B387923232%7Ffp47%3Dot%3E2339%3D%3A9%3A%3D%3A28%3DXROQDF%3E23237724475%3B%3Aot1lsi

Yesterday (Feb. 10), I took these photos of the site. This is going to be a large Franciscan nursing home. Nursing homes are depressing, but this is a good location.

http://images.snapfish.com/342%3B387923232%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3248%3E9%3A9%3E937%3EWSNRCG%3D32328633566%3A5nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/342%3B387923232%7Ffp64%3Dot%3E2339%3D%3A9%3A%3D%3A28%3DXROQDF%3E23237724475%3B5ot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/342%3B387923232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E2339%3D%3A9%3A%3D%3A28%3DXROQDF%3E23237724475%3B6ot1lsi

[ChicagoLover]

I assume the last rendering is the most recent? I wonder why the designs were changed so dramatically? The architect is Ralph Johnson of Perkins&Will, yes?

[Chicago Shawn]

Woah, what the hell? How recent is that new rendering?

[BVictor1]

The design hasn't really been changed. It's the particular rendering that you're viewing is looking at the structure from a different direction.

There are the renderings from the Perkins + Will website.

http://www.perkinswill.com/images/projects/lg/lg-102a.jpg

http://www.perkinswill.com/images/projects/lg/lg-102b.jpg

http://www.perkinswill.com/images/projects/lg/lg-102c.jpg

[BVictor1]

I think that in the rendering that NSSF posted, the building is just mispositioned.

[Chicago Shawn]

Oh, so that's the west side of the building. Awesome, that building will have two distinctly different faces.

[geoff_diamond]

Yup, those renderings are one and the same; just seen from different angles.

[Packerguy]

I was wondering when the contruction is supposed to start on it?

[geoff_diamond]

Well, I hadn't really heard anything about this one for a long time... but, those signs that you see in the first post (thx northside) are new... so, it would appear as if something is going to start happening reasonably soon.

[BVictor1]

Actually, the building presently on the site was supposed to have been demolished several months ago, but was delayed for reasons that I don't know. I believe that they are supposed to begin demolition on the present structure sosmetime this spring or possibly early summer.

[ChicagoLover]

I can't square those two renderings. And the Perkins and Will site does not include the new rendering--only the curved renderings are there... very strange.. where did you get it? At any rate, its wonderful that Ralph Johnson is designing another skyscraper in this city. I wish he was commissioned to design many more.. every tower he designs wins accolades.

[AJphx]

yeah those can't be the same design.... that rendering posted must be an old one or something.

[geoff_diamond]

No, they are the same design, just seen from different angles. One thing that's a bid odd though, if you look at the very first rendering on this page, it's shown looking west down Pearson, but, in subsequent renderings (the ones with the round portion showing) the building appears to be rotated 90 degrees so the staggered facade faces south, rather than east.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v240/geoff_diamond/Chicago%20-%20Renderings/Clare04.jpg

[dancethingy]

Loyola bites, This is where all my tuition dollors are going to and I don't get to
x-perience it. I graduate this spring, thank Buddha!

[geoff_diamond]

Well, looks like the Clare is finally going to get underway. They have started erecting scaffolding around the existing building for demolition. I'll be sure to keep everyone posted on this one as it's right around the corner from me.

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/4369/clare019yi.jpg

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/3754/clare022lu.jpg

[BVictor1]

Demolition has begun on the buildings that are currently on the site. I was over in the area yesterday, and I noticed that the top floor of the buildings were being demolished. So it seems as if things are finally moving on this one. I didn't have my camera with me, so I couldn't snap any shots.

[geoff_diamond]

They are moving quite quickly. I was walking down Chicago 2nite and noticed that about half the existing Loyola building had already been leveled. I wasn't able to snap any pics because I was in a bit of a rush, but, I'll try to get some soon.

[LA1]

They are moving fast. It will be cool to see this, Loyola, and 50 E. Chestnut rise up together.

[Chicago3rd]

May 11, 2005
http://wilthe3rd.smugmug.com/photos/21859306-M.jpg

August 22, 2005http://wilthe3rd.smugmug.com/photos/33199833-M.jpg

[geoff_diamond]

Demo is progressing nicely. And here's the proof :).

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/7531/clare013ih.jpg

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/9949/clare020zt.jpg

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/6314/clare035tn.jpg

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/1280/clare046qt.jpg

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/5466/clare053jf.jpg

[spyguy]

They should allow frustrated workers to grab a bat and start running and screaming towards the building, swinging at full force. Free, effective demolition labor.

[The Urban Politician]

I love watching that piece of shit come down.

Clare's gonna be nice....

[Krzycho]

Labor day 2005 :)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280033.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280035.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280034.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280036.jpg

...and I have a question, what`s this on Wabash/Pearson?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280037.jpg

[ChicagoLover]

Isn't that the new Loyola dorm going up?

[The Urban Politician]

^Yeah.

Oh and by the way, that whole Rush/Wabash area in RiverNorth has really matured into quite a canyon.

I have long felt that the city north of the river still lacks the overwhelming canyon effect of the loop, with Michigan, Rush, and many parts of Streeterville as the exception...

[Krzycho]

Isn't that the new Loyola dorm going up?
How it will be looks? It will be a skyscraper? Do you have guys some renderings?

[BVictor1]

How it will be looks? It will be a skyscraper? Do you have guys some renderings?

Ask and you shall receive.

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/554/6324water_tower_residence_hall.jpg

[Krzycho]

^^
Thx, very nice building.

Let`s back on-topic, one more shot of CaWT site
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v514/krzycho/chicago6/PC280041.jpg

[wickedestcity]

November 07, 2005 05:02 PM US Eastern Timezone

Fitch: Nonrated Descriptive Report on The Clare at Water Tower, Illinois

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 7, 2005--On Nov. 7, 2005, Fitch Ratings plans to release its nonrated descriptive report on the approximately $229.8 million Illinois Finance Authority revenue bonds, listed below.


-- $74.8 million Illinois Finance Authority fixed-rate revenue bonds, series 2005A;

-- $10.0 million Illinois Finance Authority adjustable tax-exempt extendable-rate adjustable securities (EXTRAS), series 2005B-1 and 2005B-2;

-- $7.5 million Illinois Finance Authority fixed-rate revenue bonds, series 2005C;

-- $130.5 million Illinois Finance Authority tax-exempt variable-rate revenue bonds, series 2005D;

-- $7.0 million Illinois Finance Authority taxable variable-rate revenue bonds, series 2005E.

The series 2005D-E bonds will be backed by separate direct-pay letters of credit from LaSalle Bank, N.A. Fitch expects to rate the bonds at a later date. Fitch's descriptive credit report provides analysis of significant credit factors and includes Fitch's evaluation of the strengths and risks surrounding this credit. No request was made for a rating on this transaction, and Fitch did not review all information or complete all procedures necessary to reach a final credit rating. Generally, Fitch regards unenhanced debt issued with financial characteristics similar to the described facility as being below investment grade. The bonds are expected to be priced the week of Nov. 14 by Ziegler Capital Markets Group.

The Clare at Water Tower (The Clare) will use the proceeds of the series 2005A-E bonds, along with $13.4 million of initial entrance fees and the interest earnings on bond proceeds, to construct a type A continuing care retirement community in downtown Chicago, Illinois. The Clare will consist of 251 independent living apartments, nine catered living apartments, 39 assisted living units (ALUs), 15 memory support ALUs, 32 skilled nursing beds, related common areas, and garage parking for 230 vehicles. Construction is scheduled to commence in December 2005, with initial occupancy of the independent living units (ILUs) scheduled for November 2007.

The primary strengths of The Clare include its unique location, no competition in a market that caters to the highly affluent senior population in Chicago, solid projected debt service coverage and cash buildup at stabilized occupancy, and the experience of the developer and management company, Greystone Communities, Inc. (Greystone). The Clare is located two blocks off North Michigan Avenue in the highly desirable Magnificent Mile/Gold Coast area of Chicago. The area is an upscale retail and residential area that is home to many of Chicago's most exclusive shops and restaurants. In the residential areas immediately to the north and east of the project, home and condominium prices can easily exceed $1 million. The Clare expects to cater to the highly affluent senior population in downtown Chicago that is currently not served in the urban area. Fitch projects the corporation will build a solid liquidity position of $27.3 million in unrestricted cash and investments, which equates to 388 days cash on hand, in the first full stabilized year (fiscal 2011) of operations. Finally, Greystone is one of the leading developers of senior living facilities in the nation. Fitch views Greystone's involvement positively, given its expertise, experience, and record of success in developing large CCRC projects.

Main credit concerns include a relatively low presale level of 65%, the project's high weighted average entrance fee, and the traditional risks associated with start-up projects, such as construction and fill-up delays. The current level of presales is somewhat low, compared with other recent start-up CCRC projects that have come to market at levels above 70%-75%. The Clare's average weighted entrance fee of $782,500 is significantly higher than that for any other CCRC facility in the Chicago metropolitan area. Fitch believes that the marketing of units at The Clare may be more sensitive to a cooling of the real estate market, compared with more moderately priced communities. Additionally, The Clare's projected financial results could be materially affected by a delay in construction and/or fill-up of units.

Fitch believes that while start-up CCRCs do not possess the credit profile to be rated in the investment-grade category, the project's location, the favorable socioeconomic characteristics of the market, a lack of competition, and the experience of the development, finance, and construction team should allow The Clare to succeed.

For a copy of the credit analysis, see the Fitch Ratings web site at 'www.fitchratings.com' or contact Market Services at 800-853-4824.

Fitch's rating definitions and the terms of use of such ratings are available on the agency's public site, 'www.fitchratings.com'. Published ratings, criteria and methodologies are available from this site, at all times. Fitch's code of conduct, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, affiliate firewall, compliance and other relevant policies and procedures are also available from the 'Code of Conduct' section of this site.

[wickedestcity]

Newcastle Limited Negotiates Lease of Loyola University’s Water Tower Site to the Franciscan Sisters


Newcastle Limited represented Loyola University Chicago in the lease of a half-block development site located within its Water Tower Campus to the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago.

(PRWEB) November 20, 2005 -- Newcastle Limited represented Loyola University Chicago in the lease of a half-block development site located within its Water Tower Campus to the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago. Newcastle Limited is a Chicago-based, national real estate advisory and development firm serving tax-exempt institutions, private investors and corporations.

Loyola recently demolished two buildings on the 24,864 square foot site, located at the corner of Pearson and Wabash, in the heart of Chicago’s prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood. The Franciscan Sisters entered into a long-term lease with Loyola and will construct a new high-rise on the property. The new 53-story residential tower will become the first luxury continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in downtown Chicago. The mixed-use building will house 271 independent living apartments, 39 assisted living apartments, 15 memory support suites, 36 skilled nursing suites and associated common and support space.

The new tower will also provide Loyola with 35,000 square feet of state-of-the-art space to meet current and future programming on the first, second and lower levels. This transaction will allow Loyola to achieve significant operational cost savings, retire bond debt attached to the older buildings, receive a steady income stream, and retain long-term ownership and control of the site.

“This complex transaction achieved several important goals for Loyola. Operating costs for aging buildings were eliminated, a long-term source of income for the University was established and the University will enhance its presence at an important location within its Water Tower Campus,” said S.L. van der Zanden, Managing Principal of Newcastle Limited.

Recently, Newcastle represented The Art Institute of Chicago in the sale of its Jewelers Row Properties located at 21-29 South Wabash and its White Tower Building at 847 West Jackson. Newcastle also led efforts to establish the new Devon/Sheridan TIF District on behalf of Loyola University and arranged the sale of the Rubens Baby Factory property to DePaul University.

About Newcastle Limited
Chicago-based Newcastle Limited is a national real estate firm serving tax-exempt institutions, private investors and corporations. The firm’s strategic advisory, development and investment services are designed to reduce project risk and maximize asset value. To learn more about Newcastle Limited, visit the company website at www.newcastlelimited.com.

[geoff_diamond]

Clare demo and excavation seems to be nearly complete. It looks like they've finally dug up the remainder of the existing foundation from the old Loyola buildings.

http://img347.imageshack.us/img347/2554/clare017en.jpg

http://img347.imageshack.us/img347/1550/clare025vu.jpg

[kazpmk]

I saw the site last friday. Demolition is complete but still no work has begun on the tower itself. There is no equiptment at the site.

[The Urban Politician]

^ lazy bastards....

[BVictor1]

I just came from The Clare site. There is an assymbled caisson crane on site, but no drilling has gone on yet. I didn't notice any other materials on site yet like rebar and caisson tubes, but this one will be starting any time now. I will check it out later this week.

[forumly_chgoman]

This is good news....nice tower for infill purposes....almost 600 ft no too bad......and that dorm they have down there now.....I wish I could have live DT when I was at Loyola

[ChicagoLover]

^ The Clare is not just decent infill. This is a Ralph Johnson building, no? This building has two different marvelous modern "crowns." This is a true beacon unto itself.

[spyguy]

^^And it's for old people! :D

[STR]

Front
http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/8461/mm20fj.jpg

Back
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/4996/mm36ix.jpg

[BVictor1]

I just drove past The Clare, and this building is NOW OFFICIALLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION

http://images.snapfish.com/34638874%3A%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3238%3E868%3E492%3EWSNRCG%3D3233548456%3C%3B%3Anu0mrj

[spyguy]

Ha- what's going on today?!

[ChgoLvr83]

A guy from SSP provided this link. Its a 3D animation of The Clare. Its pretty cool.
http://www.renderings.com/site/assets/html/video/theclare.html

[spyguy]

Wow- that's really cool. I like how Clare just pops out of nowhere.

The view going down (in the perspective of a senior citizen trying to commit suicide:?) is also awesome.

[Rascacielos]

But did you notice all the views from inside the unit looking out over the city are views from the South Loop looking north?

[ChgoLvr83]

Yeah, the layout of the city is screwed but I dont think that it was their concern. A couple builgings didnt even belong in Chicago. They should do this more with high-rise projects unless they do and I simply dont know.

[Jules]

Good news! I liked that clip, especially the music. :D

[northsidesoxfan]

'bout time.

I started this thread just over a year ago. I don't even live in Chicago anymore.

[UrbanSophist]

^ lol. Where ya livin' now?

I thought the animation was cool. I loved the lack of heavy traffic in Streeterville... ;)

[spyguy]

New York I think?

[james2390]

Damn, what a nursing home! Sweet!

[Azn_chi_boi]

A guy from SSP provided this link. Its a 3D animation of The Clare. Its pretty cool.
http://www.renderings.com/site/assets/html/video/theclare.html

my first impression was they layout Chicago all wrong...

Yes, finally UC!

[The Urban Politician]

Holy shit Victor, I'm lovin it

A highrise full of old rich farts

You gotta love the warm community feeling you get near Michigan Avenue

[BVictor1]

Holy shit Victor, I'm lovin it

A highrise full of old rich farts

You gotta love the warm community feeling you get near Michigan Avenue

yes, i'm sure that the smell of ben-gay will be quite refreshing. at least they're close to Northwestern Hospital.

[ChicagoLover]

This sounds bad, but its true. If one's grandmother lived in that building, her grandchildren might visit her more there. Now there's a real incentive for the "rich old farts" to buy a place here. The Clare should use the "grandchildren magnet" idea in their marketing materials and sales pitches. "Now your grandchildren stuck in [insert boring place] will have one more reason to visit you. The usual nursing home practically repels visitors, but The Clare will be an attraction in itself."

Another benefit of this building is all the lights it will bring to the skyline at night. Whereas other towers contain substantial number of residents using them as second homes and frequent travelers, these residents are staying put.

[spyguy]

^^Well, staying put for the time being http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/images/smilies/dead.gif

[pottebaum]

This'll add a new dimension to Michigan Avenue. Bye-bye bucket boys, hello wheelchair races!

[geoff_diamond]

The first pour for the Clare is happening as we speak. I confirmed with one of the drivers where they were headed (these trucks are sitting on eastbound Chicago Ave just west of Wabash).

http://img376.imageshack.us/img376/3667/temp2hh.jpg

[spyguy]

Taken yesterday by Pherek on SSP (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showpost.php?p=2207646&postcount=1701)
http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/9890/200607260902pk6.jpg

[Retrograde]

September 6, 2006

http://img419.imageshack.us/img419/4301/p9060082fd3.jpg

http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/3016/cwfz3.jpg

http://img419.imageshack.us/img419/2449/p9060084nq6.jpg

^ Delivering the first piece of the tower crane.

[ChicagoSkyline]

^^
Looking good with the first crane for the great tower to come! :)

[Retrograde]

October 20, 2006

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/6277/pa200070zh1.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/1874/pa200079mj8.jpg

^ Is there a work stoppage at The Clare? I saw no activity today and the gates were closed.

[Colonel Cadillac]

Looks like nobody has an answer for that one.

[spyguy]

^Work is still going on.

[i_am_hydrogen]

^Work is still going on.

Yep, I just walked past this site yesterday.

[trvlr70]

This one is going up slower that its future occupants.

[geoff_diamond]

Ahahahahaha!!! Awesome!

[jpIllInoIs]

This one is going up slower that its future occupants.

Maybe its being built by them...you know 'sweat equity'.:laugh:

[Retrograde]

January 17, 2007

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/8653/dsc0309copykj5.jpg

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/7866/dsc0306copymm5.jpg

[i_am_hydrogen]

Is it me, or is this building taking forever to get off the ground?

[geoff_diamond]

It's been a VERY slow go. Perhaps there were some issues with the site that haven't been made public.

[ardecila]

Understandably so. Many of the seniors I know would be turned off of buying a unit if they heard that the building site originally had "complications".

If I'm not mistaken, this will be the tallest retirement building in the country, or at least the midwest. It's a novel concept, and it's untested waters, especially around here. The 20-story Hilliard Homes are one thing, but 50 stories is quite another.

[trvlr70]

I swear, the perspective seniors will be long dead by the time this tower gets built. I'm 36...so I better buy now so that it will just be getting completed when I retire.

[i_am_hydrogen]

I just walked by the site earlier today, and this one finally seems to be growing a bit. I didn't have my camera with me, unfortunately.

[danthediscoman]

I swear, the perspective seniors will be long dead by the time this tower gets built.

No worries, half of em' have forgotten they even purchased a place their anyways.

[NOLAUSA]

^^^HAHHAAH!

[geoff_diamond]

Finally, signs of life. Taken today.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/156/414942497_b1ed40ccc0_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/167/414942182_eee99497fe_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/164/414942213_126b2472e3_o.jpg

[BorisMolotov]

Thank goodness... Thanks for the pics Geoff. I was getting worried about this one.

[i_am_hydrogen]

I took the exact same shot... I wonder if we unknowingly crossed paths today.

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/708/clare2ho5.jpg

[Retrograde]

March 8, 2007

http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/2492/dsc0080copyuv0.jpg

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6503/dsc0136copywk8.jpg

http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/6205/dsc0076copycw3.jpg

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/8445/dsc0127copymg2.jpg

[geoff_diamond]

hehe, suddenly everyone's got a renewed interest in the Clare :).

Either that, or we were all headed to CompUSA for their rubbish going out of business sale :(.

[ChiPsy]

Great article on the Clare, and the demographic/moving trends underlying it, in today's New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/01/realestate/01nati.html

[CHIsentinel]

Great article on the Clare, and the demographic/moving trends underlying it, in today's New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/01/realestate/01nati.html

Nice article, thanks for the link; I've attached the picture of the model of the Clare that accompanied the article on page 2; It will be quite stunning when completed:

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2007/03/29/realestate/01nati.3.L.jpg

[BorisMolotov]

Does anyone have a photo update? I tried to get there on Friday, but my feet hurt and it started to rain...

[Frumie]

Does anyone have a photo update? I tried to get there on Friday, but my feet hurt and it started to rain...

No photo, but here's the Clare's 24/7 web cam:

http://www.luc.edu/webcam/clare/

[spyguy]

Two things:

1. If people want updates, there is in fact a webcam
http://www.luc.edu/webcam/clare/

2. I've been thinking about this, and this tower must be one of the tallest towers meant only for seniors, maybe the tallest.

[spyguy]

No photo, but here's the Clare's 24/7 web cam:

http://www.luc.edu/webcam/clare/

Trust me, that link doesn't work :nuts:

[Frumie]

Trust me, that link doesn't work :nuts:

That's odd, since it works fine for me from this site and is a perfect match for the link above this post.

[i_am_hydrogen]

I went past the site yesterday and there has actually been some progress made. I was surprised at how well it's rising. Unfortunately, I was camera-less.

[BorisMolotov]

Like about what floor level were they at?

[i_am_hydrogen]

It wasn't easy to see because I was in car, but I'd say 4.

[trvlr70]

It wasn't easy to see because I was in car, but I'd say 4.

I pray you mean above ground. I swear to God, the senior citizens are builiding this one themselves.

[spyguy]

^There's a discount if you build your own unit.

[Frumie]

I pray you mean above ground. I swear to God, the senior citizens are builiding this one themselves.
Only at night when nobody's awake.

[geoff_diamond]

Yes - he means above ground. I was there this weekend, as well, and can confirm hydro's findings.

[BorisMolotov]

It wasn't easy to see because I was in car, but I'd say 4.

Really? It looks so much higher on the webcam.

[i_am_hydrogen]

Really? It looks so much higher on the webcam.

It looks like they may be up to 5-6. I took photos of this (and the Elysian and 10 E Delaware) before work. I'll post them later this evening.

[Retrograde]

April 13, 2007

The Clare at Watertower
http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6597/dsc0695copykr0.jpg

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6061/dsc0075copyrz8.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8269/dsc0079copyta2.jpg

[trvlr70]

Finally....something to see.

I am loving the curves already.

[Retrograde]

May 1, 2007

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/5344/dsc0068copynf1.jpg

[robituss]

Those senior citizens working on this are finally gaining some momentum, huh?

[Frumie]

Those senior citizens working on this are finally gaining some momentum, huh?
Yeah. They retrofitted their "Little Rascals" with front-end loaders. :)

[Retrograde]

May 21, 2007

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/6430/dsc0091xa5.jpg

[feworkr]

We're scheduled to be on site 5/30. Windows start going in (or so they say) one week later. So it's starting to move forward.

[CHIsentinel]

We're scheduled to be on site 5/30. Windows start going in (or so they say) one week later. So it's starting to move forward.

Awesome. Thanks for the update feworkr, great project and I'm sure you guys will do a great job. If possible please post pictures if you can, you know all us building nerds would love to see them!! :lol: :lol:

[i_am_hydrogen]

Taken today:
http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8462/clare1db8.jpg

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/8563/clare3wv7.jpg

[Retrograde]

June 12, 2007

http://img518.imageshack.us/img518/6867/dsc03712copygy2.jpg

http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/7045/dsc0353copyfc9.jpg

[Retrograde]

July 3, 2007

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/2488/dsc0110pg5.jpg

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/9084/dsc0088cg4.jpg

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/5585/dsc0103av0.jpg

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/1475/dsc0091fe9.jpg

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/2710/dsc0084fm7.jpg

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/3586/dsc0098ps9.jpg

[Retrograde]

July 20, 2007

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/6554/clareatwatertower3pu2.jpg

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7138/clareatwatertower2du9.jpg

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/6808/dsc0105copybe6.jpg
^ The Clare is on the left and of course, Trump on the right

[harvesterofsorrows]

Woah, how come I never heard of this guy?

[geoff_diamond]

Is that a frit on the garage glass or is there actual mesh screening? Could you tell?

Great pics btw! I'm so curious to see how this is going to look from the southwest.

[feworkr]

Ceramic frit from Oldcastle Glass

[Retrograde]

August 17, 2007

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/5727/dsc0356kg7.jpg

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6519/dsc0355ro5.jpg

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/2032/dsc0317fm7.jpg
^ I think the windows are made of JELL-O

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/4909/untitled2dy3.jpg

[geoff_diamond]

Holy shit! They must've used the same glazing supplier as MoMo Round 1!!! That is awful.

[Retrograde]

August 17, 2007

http://img392.imageshack.us/img392/6809/dsc0269kf5.jpg

[Chicagophotoshop]

thanks for the updates retro

[feworkr]

Oops! Now that I'm onsite, I can tell you I made a mistake about the glass in the parking garage. It's 1/4" tempered, with silkscreen on the inside surface. (from Oldcastle Glass) I'll find out soon the make-up of the rest of the tower, that the pictures show to be of poor quality.

[ardecila]

Yeah, I knew it was an Oldcastle Glass product from an ad they placed in Architectural Record.

[feworkr]

The tower has (1" thermo units, low-e) a 3/16" outboard lite, heat strengthened, 9/16" airspace, and 1/4" inboard lite. I wouldn't think the outboard, non-tempered lite would be so wavy.

[geoff_diamond]

3/16" is kinda thin for the exterior. Why in the hell would they put the thinner lite on the outside??? It should be the other way around (not that the extra 1/16" would make a whole heck of a lot of difference).

[feworkr]

Well Geoff, it gets REALLY complex. When I was PM, then later just a stupid ironworker (well, the foreman anyway) working on 50 E. Chestnut, there was great concern over the STF (sound transmission factor) over the bottom 15 floors there. They wanted to make the exterior lite thicker and the airspace wider to make it quieter in the building. but once the cost of new alum. extrusions, rubber extrusions, etc, was factored in, it was deemed too expensive. I used to have access to books and tables, and I'm sure you can find it somewhere on the internet, the amount of 'deflection' allowed by 3/16 and 1/4 inch glass. I agree that 1/4 is the way to go, but I'm guessing, the larger airspace will contribute more to the STF, which this 'old peoples' home may need. Search 'sound transmission factor' and you may find the table that makes it all (somewhat) clear. I'll talk to my bosses in the meantime to get the 'backstory'
Steve

[spyguy]

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/23/realestate/23nati.html?_r=2&oref=login&oref=slogin

Retirees Find Housing at Their Alma Maters
By ROBERT SHAROFF
Published: September 23, 2007

The Clare broke ground in November 2005 and will be finished late next year. About 87 percent of the independent-living units have been sold.
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/7584/600nati02dt6.jpg

[geoff_diamond]

Right... but, having the thicker lite on the outside serves two purposes: 1) better aesthetic uniformity (due to less deflection), 2) less sound transmission (when coupled with adequate air space between lites).

So, the question is... why would anyone EVER put the thicker lite on the interior? I can't think of a single reason to do so. So, there shouldn't have been any added cost in different extrusions because, in theory, it should be the same for the entire tower.

[feworkr]

I think some brainiac wanted a 9/16" airspace for better insulation and less sound transmission. In order to keep all the alum. extrusions and rubber for a 1" unit, that same brainiac took the extra sixteenth out of the exterior lite. I'll talk to my project manager tomorrow to see how this came about. If he doesn't know, I have a good friend who is VP, North American Building Envelope, for Oldcastle Glass, maybe she has some insight. It does puzzle me too.

[feworkr]

Not to bore you all to death, but it was as I figured. They wanted less sound transmission, so they made the airspace bigger, without having to change alum. extrusions. Although no one can tell me yet, why the outside lite was made thinner. More later, I hope.

[geoff_diamond]

lol... still makes no sense :)

Thanks for all the research, though :)

[i_am_hydrogen]

Just walked by the Clare about an hour ago. It looks downright awful from Chicago Avenue. Why couldn't they have made the entire facade curve instead of breaking it up like that? It totally despoils the view of that old historic building on the corner of Chicago and Wabash.

[feworkr]

We call that area of the building the 'zig zag'. I know, the design really makes no sense.

[The Urban Politician]

Just walked by the Clare about an hour ago. It looks downright awful from Chicago Avenue. Why couldn't they have made the entire facade curve instead of breaking it up like that? It totally despoils the view of that old historic building on the corner of Chicago and Wabash.

^ That's too bad.

But one of my favorite things about cities like Chicago and New York is the rather brash and loud ugliness intermixed with nice urban streetscapes.
These elements scream of the present state of a city's organic growth; that it's a city still living, growing, and changing; it continues to make mistakes out of (for lack of a better word) hubris; it's not some quaint city of the past like many in Europe, whose greatest days are behind them.

[spyguy]

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/5616/1919388489871e6fe142byf5.jpg
Photo by Al.R.To

[CHIsentinel]

People can say what they want about this building but I think it's really great! The shape is unique - rarely do you see buildings taller than 30-40 floors that are round, and it's by Perkins+Will/Ralph Johnson, so I trust the greatness of the design.

Thanks spyguy (and Al.R.To)!

[i_am_hydrogen]

Taken 12/14/05 (It's getting pretty tall)
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/9855/theclareae5.jpg

[i_am_hydrogen]

Taken 12/26:
http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/7610/clare1226ht0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[spyguy]

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/8201/2166171610b4f0787c99oaq4.jpg
Michael Shattuck

[ardecila]

I like that rooftop pavilion with the red and blue lights on the Peninsula - I wonder if I can get up there without being a guest?

[Flubnut]

That's right outside the lobby bar area, so you can certainly get close. Not sure if they're allowing the public to freely roam on the terrace, but I know you can use it for events and parties.

[Rascacielos]

I like that rooftop pavilion with the red and blue lights on the Peninsula - I wonder if I can get up there without being a guest?

Just eat at Shanghai Terrace in the warmer months.

[InTheValley]

I like that rooftop pavilion with the red and blue lights on the Peninsula - I wonder if I can get up there without being a guest?

Yes, you can eat there in the summer months. It is a restaurant for anyone not just guests....the food is ok, nothing spectacular. My wife and I go to the cocktail lounge at least once a week which is just across from the out door eatery (cannot remember the name off hand)....

[Retrograde]

January 3, 2008

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/6728/dsc0079ro5.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/1629/dsc0076ed7.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/1099/dsc0045tl9.jpg

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/3471/dsc0054cu7.jpg

[geoff_diamond]

By my unofficial count, looks like there's about 6 more stories to go. She didn't turn out quite as tall as I thought she would. But, I really do like the tower (even the saw-tooth back that everyone else seems to hate).

[DeaconBlue]

I love this building, it's nice to see some variety in RiNo. It would be great to see the Canyon Ranch building go up nearby and then we'd have two nice cylindrical towers to break up the monotony in the area.
D

[smurf]

Took these last weekend at the corner of Rush & Walton. From that vantage point it doesn't look that tall.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2317/2256467775_dcb1016996.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2010/2257269632_14604241c6.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2008/2257268020_0537d21347.jpg?v=0

[i_am_hydrogen]

Taken today:
http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/144/clare216ji9.jpg

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/6035/clare2162lh6.jpg

[Jibba]

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/7386/dsc04416kf6.jpg

[BVictor1]

03/22/08
https://community.emporis.com/images/6/2008/03/603871.jpg

03/23/08
https://community.emporis.com/images/6/2008/03/603876.jpg

https://community.emporis.com/images/6/2008/03/603877.jpg

[ardecila]

Is this guy topped out yet? I haven't been to River North in quite some time.

[spyguy]

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/1656/2594144890277838c132bed7.jpg
plwizard/ flickr

[helghast]

it came out to be a nice addition to the skyline

[Metalus]

Plans for the concrete?

[Jim856796]

Are there any other building in the world over 100 metres high that is designed exclusively for senior citizen housing?

[jpIllInoIs]

I'm no expert, but this looks Topped Out! :)

[Reaperducer]

I'm no expert, but this looks Topped Out! :)
It was topped out back in May.

[stewartrama]

Plans for the concrete?

theyre just painting it an off white. its relally hideous in person; it looks like a '70s building

[Flubnut]

I'll happily take white(ish), at least when looking from the northwest. Helps to break up all the beige from that angle. What this area really needs is some frickin' curtain walls.

[i_am_hydrogen]

Unfortunately, the architectural monoculture will only get worse as The Elysian and Ten East Delaware advance skyward. This is one of the reasons why 680 North Rush was such a critical project. Granted, it wouldn't have been in the immediate vicinity of these buildings, but it would've helped add a little bit of sleekness and sparkle to the River North skyline.

[Reaperducer]

They started taking the crane down on Friday.

[Jibba]

Don't know how much interest is left here for this one, but it is complete for all intents and purposes. I grabbed some photos of it tonight, including the recently de-barricaded base:
http://img78.imageshack.us/img78/8360/dsc056999377157zv2.jpg
http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/6453/dsc056979359326uw1.jpg
http://img78.imageshack.us/img78/7246/dsc056939323078bh8.jpg
http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/6851/dsc056889550404uz5.jpg
http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/6845/dsc056959345774qv8.jpg
http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/5018/dsc056909291864oc9.jpg
http://img56.imageshack.us/img56/1055/dsc056969566245ph7.jpg

[wrabbit]

12/12

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/3104213884_986ba6c19b_b.jpg

[InTheValley]

12/12

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/3104213884_986ba6c19b_b.jpg

Great shot wrabbit. I think it is a great addition to this area.

[wrabbit]

^ Thank you. I like how The Clare has shaped up, too. Jibba's shots give a good sense of the North side & lobby, which have a nice street presence.

The semi-circular floorplate & smooth painted concete give off a '60s vibe, but in a good way.

One of those rare buildings that gets more & more interesting as you look at it.

[Jibba]

^Agreed. I can understand some people's initial skepticism, but with the building complete I think it is really fantastic. Various details that only a good architect would know how to work give the tower a very unique and dynamic character, and this is all the better considering the site it's at.