Royal Court (http://www.royalcourtcondos.com) will break ground on Wednesday.

it will be 11 floors on the Royal Court side and 13 floors on the back side.

royal court elevation
http://www.royalcourtcondos.com/images/RCstreet.jpg

observer article (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/15774265.htm)

South End deal is latest along light rail
"Charlotte's First Colony Corp. has purchased the SouthEnd Steelyard complex on South Boulevard.

The $11 million deal includes the Steelyard building and a parking/commercial structure plus the neighboring Tompkins Tool Worx building."
Read more here. (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/business/15776863.htm)

link to Goole Maps aerial of the site area (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=E+Tremont+Ave+%26+South+Blvd,+Charlotte,+NC+28203&ie=UTF8&z=18&ll=35.209888,-80.859906&spn=0.001968,0.005407&t=k&om=1&iwloc=A)

The views from the top floors of Royal Court will be amazing, especially from the units facing Uptown!!! I like the garden on the 3rd floor.

yes, Royal Court should provide some of the most exciting views of uptown. also, since there is I-277 right there at its doorstep, there wont be any towers that will block their view for quite some time.

Smaller scale, big plans for residential projects
"The Drakeford Co. plans 36 condo flats in Plaza Vu off The Plaza on McClintock Road behind the Harris Teeter and about a block from Veterans Park."
Read more here (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/business/columnists/doug_smith/15784941.htm)

Wow, I forgot about Royal Court and haven't seen that rendering. It looks OK. I wonder if the other side will be identical to the side shown?

the other side is more curved.
go to the website, they have a redering on there that is made out of flash.

Atlanta developer targets South End
Charlotte Business Journal - October 13, 2006
by J. Lee Howard

Senior Staff Writer
Print this Article
An Atlanta development company is making its Charlotte debut with a $35 million residential and retail project on the light-rail line in South End.

Atlantic Realty Partners Inc. has targeted a 4-acre site in the 2200 block of South Boulevard. It's across the street from the planned Lowe's Cos. Inc. store slated to open next year.


The project, The Reserve at South End, is expected to contain up to 300 residential units and as much as 10,000 square feet of retail space.

Atlantic Realty has not decided whether the project will be for-rent apartments or condominiums, says Richard Aaronson, president.

If it opts for apartments, units at The Reserve will lease for $900 to $1,800 per month for spaces ranging from 800 to 1,600 square feet. If it goes condo, sales prices will be in the high $100,000s to the high $300,000s.

The Reserve will be a four- to five-story building with the retail space on the ground floor. Rental rates for the retail portion have not been set.

The project will likely incorporate some restaurants, neighborhood services retail and small shops, Aaronson says.

Atlantic Realty has filed a rezoning petition to allow the development. The company is seeking a change to transit-oriented development from industrial.

A public hearing on the request was held Sept. 18. A final City Council decision is expected Oct. 18.

If the rezoning is successful, construction could begin next summer.

City officials say the project conforms to planners' vision for new development along the light-rail corridor, now under construction.

The Atlantic Realty Partners development conforms to land-use guidelines for the area and supports higher-density development in a part of town where it has been deemed appropriate, says Keith MacVean, land use program manager with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Commission. The project also could do much to help resupply that part of Charlotte with rental property in the wake of numerous condominium conversions, says Charles Dalton, president of real estate research firm Real Data.

A multitude of projects serving the uptown and South Boulevard areas, including Fifth & Poplar and the Olmstead Park development, have switched from rental to for-sale.

Atlantic Realty has selected a suitable location for residential development and would do well to build apartments, he says.

An 11-story, $75 million residential tower that promises to be one of the most expensive apartment addresses in Charlotte will begin rising above South End in the spring.

The Hanover Co. of Houston recently paid $6.5 million for a 2.5-acre site at 101 W. Tremont Ave., where it plans a 310-unit development, tentatively dubbed 101 Tremont.

The proposed tower's closest rival for tallest South End building is developer Jim Gross' 22-story Arlington condo project at Arlington Avenue and South Boulevard.

The 101 Tremont building, however, would have few rivals for offering some of the most expensive apartments in Charlotte.

The units will average 1,165 square feet and rent for about $2 per square foot, says Bo Buchanan, project developer for Houston-based Hanover. That would make monthly rental payments about $2,330.

The only apartments in Charlotte that come close to that rate are in another Hanover development, The Residence at SouthPark. That complex is under construction and slated for completion in April.

The 150 units in the SouthPark project will average 1,600 square feet and lease for $2.08 per square foot, for an average monthly rental rate of more than $3,300.

Construction of 101 Tremont is scheduled to start in April and take about two years to complete. Hanover acquired the property from a limited liability company controlled by Steve Harris of development company Harris, Murr & Vermillion.

The property is being used by plumbing supply company Ferguson Enterprises Inc.

Ferguson, which leases a 42,000-square-foot building on the site, is expected to relocate by early spring.

Hanover is a well-established apartment builder in Charlotte, having constructed more than 4,000 units here.

The company attempts to make its projects distinctive, including high-end finishes and details such as pools and community clubhouses.

The South End project will offer a rooftop pool, 10-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass.

The 101 Tremont development also will be near a light-rail stop, Atherton Mill and East Boulevard.

Hanover has been working closely with the Charlotte Area Transit System to ensure its project gets maximum benefit from the light-rail corridor, Buchanan says.

The south-corridor line has spawned a multitude of residential and mixed-use projects in recent years. But with an anticipated opening of the line next fall, the South End area has witnessed a dramatic acceleration of development.

Other projects include Heath Partners' plans to build a $25 million, 80-unit condo development on an acre at East Worthington and Cleveland avenues. (See story on page 5.)

And Atlanta developer Atlantic Realty Partners Inc. is making its Charlotte debut with a $35 million, 300-unit residential and retail project on 4 acres in the 2200 block of South Boulevard.

But light rail is only one of the attractions of South End, Buchanan says. The district's pioneering developers such as Tony Pressley of MECA Properties have created a redevelopment haven that would have appeal even without the light-rail or trolley lines, he says.

The area's proximity to uptown and SouthPark make it accessible to major employment centers. Plus, its eclectic mix of artists, design professionals, retailers and other entrepreneurs give it a distinctive feel unmatched in the region, Buchanan adds.

Real estate analyst Charles Dalton of residential research firm Real Data agrees. South End has emerged as an excellent residential location, he says. Hanover may be pushing the limits of Charlotte's rental-rate boundaries, but Dalton is confident there will be a market for 101 Tremont.

Young professionals locating to Charlotte from more expensive parts of the country may regard Hanover's rents as a bargain, Dalton says.

The project also should attract people who are building a home in Charlotte and need a place to stay in the interim, he adds.

source (http://charlotte.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2006/10/23/story2.html?b=1161576000^1363105)


this is a rather impressive project considering the price to rent the units. i guess there really is a market for this sort of project.

Project taps into trend of upscale townhomes, condos in Myers Park

"Stephens Square, envisioned as a four-story condo building and five townhomes, now consists of 10 exclusive townhomes from about 3,500 to more than 4,000 square feet and selling for just over $1.5 million to nearly $2 million."

http://www.charlotte.com/images/charlotte/charlotte/15828/250526105324.gif

Read more here. (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/business/15825985.htm)

Goole Maps Aerial (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=selwyn+ave,+queens+road+charlotte,+nc&ie=UTF8&z=18&ll=35.189518,-80.830493&spn=0.001968,0.003659&t=k&om=1)

Heath Partners targets East Worthington for $25 million development

Heath Partners, developer of the 3030 South condominium project, is drawing plans for another South End condo development, valued at $25 million, near the light-rail line.

Charlotte-based Heath plans to build as many as 80 condos on an acre at East Worthington and Cleveland avenues.

Read more here. (http://charlotte.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2006/10/23/story6.html)

Does anyone think South End might be overloading on high-end condos? Over $2,000 a month for an apartment is insane (though more reasonable in SE than SouthPark, given the superior location). I worry that the whole area will become super-gentrified, and end up losing a lot of its character (Price's, Tremont, etc.). Kinda like a super-NoDa.

Of course, South End was never made out to be a bohemian arts district, so gentrification wouldn't be as disappointing. But still, I don't like the idea of the whole district turning yuppie.

It was inevitable. There seems to be a good bit of land in SouthEnd ripe for development, so I'm not really surprised. If SouthEnd does go yuppie, I hope the architecture of the new developments compliments and respects the existing architecture.

i think the biggest problem south end will face in the future is the lack of mixed use. it will become its own little bubble just over the bridge of uptown and will have a bunch of yuppies. at the same time, that may be our biggest chance to get some retail that is 'upscale' into uptown or near uptown. however, i'd rather see a larger mix spread all around uptown with the yuppies spread.

"Planned buildings in the village, expected to be developed over about five years, include three- to eight-story midrises with residences atop about 150,000 square feet of retail, office and restaurant space."


full story (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/business/15898141.htm)

Crescent Resources has purchased the former Summit on Park apartments on Park Road and is planning to redevelop it as a 97-unit condominium project.

Crescent plans to tear down the aging, 82-unit complex at Park and Marsh roads and build for-sale condominiums, says Brian Natwick, development manager in Crescent's multifamily division. The property is currently vacant.

Current design plans call for a four-story building on top of a ground-level parking garage, which should be mostly hidden from the street.

The unnamed project will offer units ranging from 750-square-foot studios to 1,500-square-foot corner condos.

Crescent recently bought the site from Charlotte-based Pinnacle Properties for $3.75 million. Pinnacle bought the property in January for $2.16 million from the Charlotte Housing Development Corp.

Pinnacle had its own development plans in mind, but Crescent's offer was too attractive to pass up, says Doug Hollidge, a Pinnacle partner.

A development cost on the Crescent project has not been determined. A rezoning will not be necessary.

Crescent hopes to begin construction in mid-2007. The project will take about 18 months to complete.

Natwick declines to reveal pricing, though each unit will have "luxury-quality" finishes, he says.

The multifamily sectors -- whether apartments or condominiusms -- is enjoying a huge resurgence, particularly in infill areas.

Park Road tends to be regarded as a more affordable alternative to other close-in neighborhoods such as Myers Park or SouthPark.

The number of units Crescent is planning is relatively large for the Park Road corridor, says Engle Addington, multifamily analyst at Real Data. But demand has been strong and she doubts Crescent will have any trouble finding buyers.

A general contractor has not been selected. Jenkins-Peer Architects is designing the project. Design Resource Group has been selected for land planning and civil engineering.

BizJournal Story (http://charlotte.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2006/11/06/daily24.html?b=1162962000^1372951)

Observer article (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/business/15962327.htm)

Google Maps Aerial (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=3200+Park+Rd,+Charlotte,+NC&ie=UTF8&z=18&ll=35.187326,-80.853415&spn=0.001876,0.005407&t=k&om=1)

"StoneHunt LLC plans to clear the way for construction by demolishing 63 housing units on 12 to 14 acres -- just over a third of the Cherry community, which extends eastward from Kings Drive toward Queens Road."

PROJECT OVERVIEW

1 Cherry Garden - a three-story, 42-apartment independent living center for seniors. The developers are partnering with The Affordable Housing Group, a nonprofit agency that helps develop low-income housing through tax credits. Kathy Stillwell, director of real estate development for The Affordable Housing Group, said it expects to apply in January for tax credits through the N.C. Housing Finance Agency.

2 The Grove at Cherry - 90 "mid-luxury" townhomes ranging from 1,590 to 3,000 square feet and priced tentatively from the $250,000s.Predominantly brick units would include two-car garages in the rear, front porches. Living space will be on the lower level and bedrooms upstairs. Some will have basements or bonus rooms and some will have second-story lofts.

3 Cherry Hill - 112 condos, 800 to 1,700 square feet, priced from the low $200,000s in three buildings oriented toward the skyline, Metropolitan and the Little Sugar Creek Greenway. Units would be in three- and four-story building with open space in the rear where the property abuts homes in the neighborhood.

Buildings will have parking underneath.

Amenities are still being determined, but the developers are considering a pool.

The developers plan to work with the Charlotte Housing Authority on providing affordable units for qualified buyers.

4 Commercial/residential - This project will be the last phase developed. Specifics and construction timetable are to be determined.It's closest to the Midtown Square redevelopment, and the developers say they want to make sure whatever they do meshes.

http://www.liveincherry.com/

^ That's a real tragedy that will most likely make only small ripples in the local conscience. What a total shame that redevelopment can be that invasive.

http://www.charlotte.com/multimedia/charlotte/KRT_packages/archive/business/wachovia/images/06condo.jpg
42 Stories Wachovia Condo Tower

yes.
this project is AMAZING.

Looks like something straight out of Buckhead. It's a different design for Charlotte, which is a good thing. What color will the facade be?

dont forget the concourse too. it is 25 stories tall with a hotel and condos and parking all right next to the arena.

Concourse is Trademark's green mini-me.

Concourse
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/wlangston1/261959128055.jpg

You guys are getting some amazing towers!!! Loved the renderings :okay:

some more renderings of concourse:

http://southernuprise.com/photos/construction/concourse/concourse_b_w_re.jpg

rendering from the website:
http://southernuprise.com/photos/construction/concourse/website_renndering.jpg


from the city council agenda a few weeks ago
http://southernuprise.com/photos/construction/concourse/concourse_meeting_2_re.jpg


and location of concourse in relation to the arena:
http://southernuprise.com/photos/construction/concourse/concourse_aerial.jpg


Charlotte Observer Article on Concourse 12/7/06 (http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/16179564.htm)

Not to be outdone, the Midtown redevelopment looks like it's getting on board the condo tower bandwagon:

http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/16186289.htm

20 stories, 800 units, targeting the high end market.

sorry buddy thats not midtown, that is elizabeth street right near carpe diem and such, but yes midtown is already got into the highrise game, phase two includes a condo tower in the upper teens to lower 20s.

I'm glad a tower is going up next to the arena, but I really wish it wasn't such a Trademark knock-off.

sorry buddy, that's Elizabeth Avenue not Elizabeth Street. Sorry, couldn't resist.

Midtown is usually grouped with Elizabeth in the 'Midtown/Elizabeth' part of town. As of now 'midtown' is only one development, not much of an area of town. ;)

Personally, I've never considered any part of Charlotte to be named "Midtown". I think that term sort of arose because of the mall being named Midtown Square and newcomers and younger people just started calling it that because of the mall without really bothering to learn the real neighborhood names. It is a sort of a "no man's land" at times since so many historic hoods converge there. You've got Elizabeth, Cherry, Myers Park, and Dilworth all sort of smooshing together at once against 277. I think it is important for these neighborhoods to continue to strive for delineation and individual identities. Why give up neighborhood identities that are so unique, fascinating, and historic for one bland, common "Midtown (everyone has one)" moniker. It's just too generic, these neighborhood’s individuality and history deserve better IMO. Just my rant for the evening. I hope as developers continue to grow these areas they focus on that, especially Grubb, who I think is. I also think that, in general, the center city hoods are embracing there identities and seeking to strengthen and reinforce them. Of course some developers build projects in Optimist Park and say they're in NODA:ohno: . OK, rant over.

Growing up in Charlotte, I have always thought and heard the area between I-277 and the old Independence Blvd being referred as ''Midtown.'' IMO South End could have been appropriately called "Midtown" as it an extension of the Uptown. Well when growing up hearing Charlotte's CBD as "Uptown" and hearing other cities' CBD as "Downtown" confused me.

I think SouthEnd was really cut from Dilworth and Wilmore (mostly Wilmore). I think the dividing line between the two has historically been South Blvd. Dilworth people still claim it when it comes to NIMBY wars though from what I understand, back when it was just run down cotton mills no one really claimed it.

I think I'll get a map to see the historic divisons between the hoods and then look at what putting the freeways up did to them. Elizabeth was sliced by Independence and the areas N of Independence seem more inline with PM today because of that. However it seems real estate agents still call the area N. of independence Elizabeth because the Elizabeth name fetches higher prices then PM and is fair from a historical perspective.

I've also heard the 277->S. Independence area referred to as "Midtown" for quite some time now, and I guess I always assumed that Midtown Square got its name from the area, not vice versa. Considering that the city has always been somewhat south-centric (at least in terms of money and development), it makes sense that the area south of Uptown would be seen as a "middle" ground leading to the suburbs.

The Hanover Co. 11-story apartment building on nearly 3 acres at 101 Tremont Ave., next to the South Corridor light-rail line is under construction.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/South%20End%20Development/P8280022.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/South%20End%20Development/P8280021.jpg

The Trademark on the right is finished and owners have been moving in.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Trademark/P8310044.jpg

Wow, Trademark looks fantastic.

Quit hogging it all. Save some for the squirrels. :lol:

Work is about to begin on the Vue 51 floors condos tower. There should be a tower rising event on 09-19-07. We will see if this happens, the last time they had an announcement about a ground breaking did not happen.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/Vue.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P9170054.jpg

I love this tower!!!

Good Lord! I thought that project was half way finished by now.

Wow, is that a new rendering?

No.

From Charlotte Center City Partners
Groundbreaking 09/25/2007
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/gal_vue_ground_brkg_web.jpg

Uptown condo under development now owned by Chicago developer

Dan McLean now sole owner of The VUE Charlotte


Dan McLean – long known as one of Chicago’s most successful developers responsible for expansion of Chicago’s Gold Coast and Lincoln Park and for development of Fisher Island, Fla. – is now the sole owner and developer of The VUE Charlotte.

McLean, president and CEO of MCL Companies, will be in town Wednesday, Sept. 19, for The VUE’s “Going Vertical” celebration held at the sales center on 101 N. Tryon St. from 6 to 9 p.m.

“We identified several cities across the U.S. that we wanted to be a part of and Charlotte stood out,” says McLean. “We also have luxury residential properties and retail centers in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, Miami and New York. We really liked what we saw in the Center City.”

The VUE site is currently being cleared and construction is slated to begin in October. Upon completion, it will be a 51-story, 403-unit luxury condominium tower bringing more than 700 new residents to uptown.

“I’m familiar with MCL properties in New York and Boston and I’m impressed with MCL’s ability to efficiently see a project from start to finish,” says Emma Littlejohn, president of The Littlejohn Group, a real estate marketing and consulting firm. “Dan brings new energy to the building and has a way of entering a community and really making a difference.”

Situated in the historic Fourth Ward, The VUE offers residents a myriad of amenities including biometric fingerprint security systems, resident-only parking areas, 24-hour doorman, a concierge, a wine vault, meeting and conference rooms, a 4,000-square-foot health club and 35,000-square-foot amenity deck. For more information, please call the sales center at 704.374.0089 or visit www.vuecharlotte.com.

MCL Companies is a home builder of national reputation a. Based in Chicago, they are best known for developing the 13-acre River East neighborhood in downtown Chicago. When completed in 2010, the 13-acre, $1.5 billion development, located along the north bank of the Chicago River between Lake Michigan and Michigan Avenue, and adjacent to Navy Pier, will have added a population of 3,000 residents, parking for 4,000 cars, a hotel, shops, restaurants and a 21-screen cinema complex. Outside of Chicago, MCL has developed in New York City, Denver, and Fisher Island off the Florida Coast, and is currently developing luxury residential construction in Atlanta (The Skyline at Lindbergh), Charlotte (The VUE Charlotte), Emerald Coast (Boston) and Veyond Boulevard East (Las Vegas).

The success of this team effort is visible through many awards MCL has received, including Professional Builder Award for Urban Revitalization, Chicago Developer of the Year, Builder of the Year, and Best City Development. For more information, visit www.mclcompanies.com

Royal Court has started construction.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/RCstreet-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/PA190003.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/PA190001.jpg

^^I like that rendering. Is this Uptown or more suburban. I only asky because of all the trees in the photos.

It is across from uptown looking on I277. This will be the basic view from the Royal Court to uptown.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/UP%20Town/PA190005.jpg

Work is about to begin on the Vue 51 floors condos tower. There should be a tower rising event on 09-19-07. We will see if this happens, the last time they had an announcement about a ground breaking did not happen.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/Vue.jpg

Too bad they scrapped the spires. These are the latest renderings from the project's website:

http://www.vuecharlotte.com/Images/Renderings/Night1.jpg

http://www.vuecharlotte.com/Images/Renderings/Day2.jpg

It just looks so....blah....now.

I'm not complaining, we are still going to get a beautiful tower!

Work on the Vue today 10-22-07.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/Pa230003.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/Pa230002.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/Pa230001.jpg

^^Hopefully it stalls and they send it to G-ville instead to get it built. :D

The NIMBYs in Greenville would have a heart attack if something that high was built in Greenville. I was in Denver when the Colorado Rockies won the last game, the town went wild. All you could get on local TV was the Rockies.

The NIMBYs in Greenville would have a heart attack if something that high was built in Greenville. I was in Denver when the Colorado Rockies won the last game, the town went wild. All you could get on local TV was the Rockies.

I know I would have one, but not because i'm a nimby, which i'm not. :lol: That's where my mom's step brother lives. :) Did they all get drunk off of Coors Light? :D

The NIMBYs in Greenville would have a heart attack if something that high was built in Greenville.
Not just Greenville, I can assure you... I know of a few other cities East of Charlotte that would have had some serious problems digesting that something above 40 stories can be built there ;) Hell, they have trouble seeing anything above 20 stories. I know that some will disagree with me, but getting all those skyscrapers Uptown, before the population increase there, was a wise thing... If you have skyscrapers of some significant size (i.e. BofA, Hearst Tower), it would be hard to argue against something that stands slightly above them. I always liked the forward thinking of Charlotte, particularly when it comes to Uptown. As I mentioned before, significant projects, like Trump's proposal, will reflect positively on the entire state, and even those South Carolina areas that remain part of Charlotte CSA. It is a win-win situation, I think. Sure, we'd love to get something like Trump's project in our cities, but let's be patient and wish best of luck to Charlotte first. That is, if any possibility of not getting this project exists. Hopefully, some people are getting inpatient and spread their own pessimism around.

Charlotte, get ready... g-man is on his way and he takes no prisoners :lol:

^^:guns1:

I lived from 1965 to 1971 in the Raleigh area. I loved Raleigh and would not have moved to Charlotte for anything. In 1971 I moved just outside of Houston, TX. I watched a building boom go wild in Houston downtown the time I lived in Texas.

In 1985 I moved to Charlotte. Uptown Charlotte at that time was nothing to write home about. The tallest building at that time was BOA 40 stories on Trade and Tryon. Belks and Ivey's had stores in uptown at that time.

But starting late in the 80s things started to roll. I would say in the last 3 years there has been a lot of new projects that has put Charlotte at a different level. Uptown is filling in fast with new high rises that other cities would love to have. How long this pace will keep up it is anyone guess, but I am going to enjoy it as long as it last.

I think charlotte has now reached a point of critical mass where it will not slow down anytime soon.

For as long as Charlotte offers a good quality of life, the Uptown boom will not stop. Of course, your guess is as good as mine, but there are no indicators of slowing down. Every few years, the high-rise boom will slow a bit, only to go back to normal afterwards. With all the residential units that coming to Uptown, we can only expect a slow-down at one point, but not a decline... It is only a cycle that will be repeated every few years.

Construction at the Catalyst Condos and Office tower.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/PA300001.jpg

The Novare development is going to have a substantial impact on that end of uptown. I don't think we'll truly grasp that until it's built. We're really not used to much of any activity occurring in that area, so we will really have to see it in order to believe it. The synergy between it and the Wachovia/cultural arts campus is going to be awesome.

Third ward is now getting its share of new projects. Charlotte is going to look like a different city in a few years. This is the most new projects I have seen in uptown since I moved to Charlotte in 1985. The nice thing is we have had a nice group of projects being completed at different times.

The Epicenter will be opening early next year and The Park and The Tower should be completed next year. It looks like the condo towers are being space out so not too many are being completed all at the same time.

Looks like the Quaterside will be completed later next year. I would like to see more action on the Elizabeth Ave. redevelopment.

300 South Tryon project now has its sells office open. This is a mixed used 32 stores tower with retail-offices and condos.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/300%20South%20Tryon/3002Bexterior.jpg

I like the tower, although I am not sure about that huge gray area... Are they going to use that for something (i.e. a huge screen for ads)?

it is just the color of the glass. it is not like an opaque wall. i like the gray in the building, helps distinguish it from many of the towers built these days which are one color up and down with one plain design.

Here are some pics from Mobuchu on UP of the 300 S. Tryon model:

Tryon St.
http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507652.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507651.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507657.jpg

3rd St
http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507653.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507654.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507656.jpg

Church St.
http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507658.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507659.jpg

amenities deck
http://www.pbase.com/mobuchu/image/88507661.jpg

The model brings this project to life in a way the renderings didn't even come CLOSE to doing. The green roofs are an excellent touch, and I really love the boulevard-like effect along 3rd. It will make for a really nice stroll towards the future 3rd Ward Park.

The model brings this project to life in a way the renderings didn't even come CLOSE to doing. The green roofs are an excellent touch, and I really love the boulevard-like effect along 3rd. It will make for a really nice stroll towards the future 3rd Ward Park.

Where? Sorry, I don't get up to Charlotte that much. I go to Atlanta instead.

I agree with krazeeboi's comments. the 3D model shows a lot of those details that otherwise are missing in the renderings. Nice tower, IMHO :okay:

Will this building be located on what was a parking lot bounded by Tryon, Third, MLK and Church? If so, were the other buildings on that site razed? Also, is this building u/c or merely a proposal?

Lastly, where is it in relation to the new Wachovia tower?

The model brings this project to life in a way the renderings didn't even come CLOSE to doing. The green roofs are an excellent touch, and I really love the boulevard-like effect along 3rd. It will make for a really nice stroll towards the future 3rd Ward Park.

Looks like a good execution of an office/condo mixed use which can be a little tricky. Anyone know the architect for this?

300 S Tryon looks very similar to the RBC tower going up in Raleigh. Ironically RBC is rumored to be the anchor tenet for the 300 S Tryon tower. They began site work for this tower a few months ago and they have applied for a building permit...so this one is pretty certain to happen. It is taking up about half of the block along Tryon and 3rd. None of the other buildings on the block were torn down and they are not part of this project. This tower will replace a surface parking lot. Unfortnately a number of years ago there were some old buildings referred to as Film Row on this site that were torn down.

The architect for this building is LS3P Associates Ltd.

I didn't realize that 300 S. Tryon is a mix of office and condos. Thanks for the info.

If so, were the other buildings on that site razed?

Perish the thought! Latta Arcade/Brevard Court are also on that block. I would be sorely disappointed in the leadership of the city if they allowed those historic gems to be razed.

Perish the thought! Latta Arcade/Brevard Court are also on that block. I would be sorely disappointed in the leadership of the city if they allowed those historic gems to be razed.

I don't know these buildings. Can you post photos?

By the way is 300 S. Tryon or the new Wachovia supposed to have any fountains or sculptures in adjoining plazas?

Everything you need to know about Latta Arcade:

http://www.cmhpf.org/surveys&rlattaarcade.htm

I haven't seen any fountains or sculptures associated with 300 tryon or the new Wachovia tower. Neither project really has plazas built in.

Yeah, I'm surprised by how close to the street the Wachovia tower is. I don't even think there's a minimal setback as far as the main entrance goes.

Everything you need to know about Latta Arcade:

http://www.cmhpf.org/surveys&rlattaarcade.htm

I haven't seen any fountains or sculptures associated with 300 tryon or the new Wachovia tower. Neither project really has plazas built in.

Thanks for the info. So, 300 S. Tryon is immediately adjacent to the Latta Arcade as in located on the same block?

^Yep.

krazeeboi, it's ridiculous how close to the sidewalk the wachovia tower is. It almost doesn't look right. It is RIGHT ON TOP OF YOU. It's as tight to the street as Ivey's. From a security standpoint alone you'd think they'd want it a bit further off the street.

LloydGeorge, Latta Arcade is on the adjacent parcel along South Tryon, immediately south of where this new tower is going. It appears 300 Tryon will practically touch Latta Arcade. Here's a photo. The lot is where the tower will go. The RiteAid to the left is part of Latta Arcade:

http://a857.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/l_63e7f4c97d7cfbdd0625d0446efee928.jpg

Thanks for the information, gents.

krazeeboi, it's ridiculous how close to the sidewalk the wachovia tower is. It almost doesn't look right. It is RIGHT ON TOP OF YOU. It's as tight to the street as Ivey's. From a security standpoint alone you'd think they'd want it a bit further off the street.

Agreed!

wow 300 south tyron started construction already??

http://a857.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/l_63e7f4c97d7cfbdd0625d0446efee928.jpg

^ Yup. Preliminary site work has been in progress for a while now, and they've met their sales goals to commence construction.

Fantastic! this and the vue are two of the best projects in charlotte!!

^ Yup. Preliminary site work has been in progress for a while now, and they've met their sales goals to commence construction.

How many floors of 300 S. Tryon will be office space?

Catalyst 12/06/2007
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Catalyst/PC060105.jpg
Vue Looks like most of the grading is done.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/PC060102.jpg

catalyst is already having a HUGE impact on the streetscape on 2nd and college street. next will the office tower which will really close in that area.

Catalyst is going up insanely fast. I thought they'd be doing some foundation work for a while, but to my surprise, they're just throwing it up.

If you will notice, Novare Group does not mess around. From their announcement to construction was a very short time. If they were doing the Vue, it would be finished by now.

What I find interesting is that the next wave of construction in Charlotte will likely be retail. The center city is sorely lacking street level retail and could absolutely support much more. I know a lot of people who would choose to shop downtown than in a sterile mall in the hinterlands...

What I find interesting is that the next wave of construction in Charlotte will likely be retail. The center city is sorely lacking street level retail and could absolutely support much more. I know a lot of people who would choose to shop downtown than in a sterile mall in the hinterlands...

In a couple of months Epicentre should be opening up. I'm interested to see how that goes. My understanding is that some of the spaces in there are not spoken for yet, and its possible because some retailers are looking at the development. It seems to be mostly resturants and bars for now, except for one shoe store that I'd read about. I'm hoping they can at least put something in there like a Gap, my goodness.

Royal Court gets a crane today.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/PC120118.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/PC120115.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/Pc120116.jpg

What is the Charlotte crane count as of today?

Uptown + South End
Tower cranes 20
portable cranes 10

Catalyst condo tower as of 01/02/08
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P1020120.jpg

Catalyst condo tower as of 01/07/08
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Catalyst/P1070201.jpg

The Vue 01/07/2008
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P1070191.jpg

I always appreciate your updates. Keep them coming ;)

Catalyst condo tower as of 01/09/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Catalyst/P1090245.jpg

^^
It looks like it is leaning to the right :lol:

No, the land slopes to the left. Look at BOA it is vertical.

and the photo slopes to the right.

^^But i'm straight. ;)

^^
that's what she said

how tall is catalyst gonna be?

^^
that's what she said

:rant:

Royal Court Condos Progress 01/12/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/P1120279.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/P1120280.jpg

how tall is catalyst gonna be?

I'm not sure if the number of floors has been set yet but it's between 27 and 29, I think. Here is a rendering of the complete project:

http://www.trinitycapitaladvisors.com/images/photos_office-scs.jpg

Catalyst is in the back right. Twelve Hotel is in the back left. The office building is in the foreground.

what's the tallest one in the very back?

That's Twelve Hotel. It will be 39 stories, I believe.

We've seen a lot of different projects going up around Uptown, and it has become amazingly clear that out of all of these developers, Novare is the one that doesn't mess around. As soon as Novare decides to get something done it gets done. Look at how quickly Avenue went up. Now look at how fast this project is moving. The only other condo developer in Uptown that has been able to keep pace has been Boulevard Centro. Like Novare, Boulevard Centro gets things done in a timely manner.

Meanwhile, projects like the Park, 210 Trade, Vue, Royal Court, and Smith Curry have taken a lot longer to get going, and seem to be moving at a snail's pace by comparison.

That's Twelve Hotel. It will be 39 stories, I believe.
I think you are correct... Does anyone have a rendering of Twelve Hotel? Ι might have seen it somewhere, but I can't recall.

I think you are correct... Does anyone have a rendering of Twelve Hotel? Ι might have seen it somewhere, but I can't recall.

That's the only one I've ever seen. I don't think an official rendering has ever been released.

Does anyone know the General Contractor on The Vue, Twelve and Catalyst?

Does anyone know the General Contractor on The Vue, Twelve and Catalyst?

The Twelve Hotel is the tallest building.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Novare/novare.jpg

^^:tongue: Atlanta's better. Quit hogging it so much. :rant: :lol:

R.J. Griffin is the General Contractor for the Vue.

Thanks, CLTNC :okay:

101 West Tremont Apts. This show how near the apts. are to the South Blue line.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/101%20West%20Tremont/P1160344.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/101%20West%20Tremont/P1160341.jpg

Millennium Apartments on South Tryon and Bland St. The Lynx South Blue Line iBland Street station is just behind this apertment complex.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Millennium%20Apartments/P1160349.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Millennium%20Apartments/P1160348.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Millennium%20Apartments/P1160347.jpg

The Vue retaining wall near completion. Hope to see foundation work soon.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P1150307.jpg

As expected, One Charlotte has been put on hold until the mess in the subprime market clears up.

I personally think this should come back as a mixed-use tower. High end condos on the top and office on the bottom part of the tower. The crunch in the office market, and the high demand for uptown space should make this project a good one for an office conversion. Possibly more hotel rooms since there is also a hotel room crunch.

I think when the market turns around we may see action there again.

^^The same thing happened to our Peacock Hotel and Spa, but that had already started construction, so it looks like an eyesore just sitting there with one floor complete and nobody working on it. :puke:

I think when the market turns around we may see action there again.

I sure hope so. That was my favorite condo proposal. Encore was/is my second favorite, so I sure hope that one gets done.

With all those condos Uptown, some projects might get delayed. Sorry to hear about One Charlotte being delayed - I read about it here (http://www.newsobserver.com/business/story/890620.html) - but I am sure other condo towers will become successful and encourage the developer to resume his plans. Anyone cares to share a rendering, although I am sure I've seen this project before?

^^Here you go man: http://www.urbanplanet.org/wiki/index.php/One_Charlotte_Tower (Renderings at bottom right of page)

As expected, One Charlotte has been put on hold until the mess in the subprime market clears up.

I personally think this should come back as a mixed-use tower. High end condos on the top and office on the bottom part of the tower. The crunch in the office market, and the high demand for uptown space should make this project a good one for an office conversion. Possibly more hotel rooms since there is also a hotel room crunch.

That's a good idea; any project Uptown that includes office space is going to be a sure bet right about now, and I don't think Charlotte is yet ready for a project like One Charlotte was in its current state. Mid- to high-end retail should also go on the ground floor.

So, this is One Charlotte (thanks, g-man). That was a wonderful skyscraper and I was looking forward to seeing it complete :( If such projects do not move forward in Charlotte, how can we hope to see them in our cities, some day soon? I am still optimistic that once the developer takes another look at the plans, he may decide to shoot for a different market. Going after the less than $1 million condo market might help. I love the design and I think it would look nice in Charlotte.

Do not count it out. Portman owens the property and can want until the climate is right to build. I am sure you will see something there in the future.

Yes, it is "expensive dirt" and cannot sit there for very long without generating income. Something major will have to be built when the condo market returns to its recent state.

Yes, it is "expensive dirt" and cannot sit there for very long without generating income. Something major will have to be built when the condo market returns to its recent state.

It's not really dirt. It's a parking deck for the Westin. I am also optimistic that this project will someday become a reality. The Westin has been begging for a companion tower ever since it was built. I definitely think this one will happen eventually.

Actually there is no dirt to it. One Charlotte was to be built atop an already existing parking deck. It's actually sad. This would have been one of the most exciting buildings in the South.

At one time it was thought the site would be the site of a new office building. Perhaps it will be office----- after all Uptown Charlotte's vacancy rate is very low.

Look what you caused Raleigh-NC. :D

It's not really dirt. It's a parking deck for the Westin. I am also optimistic that this project will someday become a reality. The Westin has been begging for a companion tower ever since it was built. I definitely think this one will happen eventually.
:lol:
You took "expensive dirt" literally... I put the double quotes for a reason. If you are familiar with DT Raleigh, I will refer you to the 25-30 story mixed-use tower - which is for now only a vision - speculated for replacing the 4-story 414 Fayetteville Str and will also include the Sheraton Hotel atrium area. The developers referred to this location as "expensive dirt" meaning that such a great location cannot remain underutilized for too long. I used the same term, thinking that it would make sense in the case of One Charlotte.

The Catalyst Condos is moving up fast. 01/28/08
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Catalyst/P1280640.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Catalyst/P1280642.jpg

Thr Rosewood Condos. It is so big you have to get far away to get it all. 01/28/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Rosewood/P1280629.jpg

The Catalyst is definitely moving fast!!! The Rosewood Condos is a great looking project, IMHO. It is bigger than I thought, too.

There is a wing back which you do not see from this photo.

Rosewood Condos looks like a manor. That Novare block is going to be awesome once finished. That block has been vacant and inactive for so long, it's going to be hard to imagine it bustling with activity.

I plan on buying a place in Catalyst as soon as sales start. Being that close to the football stadium, future ballpark, and Tryon street is going to be great! I really hope I can get a unit with a view of the ballpark.

The Village at South Park. I will get more photos this week. It has retail on the first fllor.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Village%20at%20SP/P1280626.jpg

The Park Condos 01/30/08
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/The%20Park/P1300714.jpg

Nice project for Concord in the paper today. But what's up with the palm trees???

http://www.charlotte.com/485/story/468558.html

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y183/Kwinone/Speedway2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y183/Kwinone/Speedway.jpg

Good question about the palm trees. They would really look out of place.

Good question about the palm trees. They would really look out of place.

Not only that, they would have a difficult time making it through very many winters.

^True.

The O has just reported that the 300 S. Tryon project has been delayed due to market conditions: http://www.charlotte.com/business/columnists/doug_smith/story/470951.html It's really too bad; I was looking forward to seeing what that project would add to S. Tryon. I guess it will just be a little longer until we find out.

I like the design of the Concord project. My guess is that the palm trees offer less distraction and their roots would not destroy the sidewalk, unlike oak trees.

As for the 300 South Tryon, I am sure the delay will not be long. Let's face it, Uptown has been getting a ton of new residential projects, already under way. The market cannot absorb all those units. I'd rather wait for another 2-3 years than seeing a nice project like 300 South Tryon getting scaled down. But that is only my opinion. On a positive note, the developer is still optimistic that the project will start this year (excerpt taken from the above link):
Dewberry didn't know how long 300 South Tryon might be postponed, but he believes it still will be started this year.

He said Spectrum plans to continue selling residential units and taking nonbinding reservations on office space during the postponement.

^True.

The O has just reported that the 300 S. Tryon project has been delayed due to market conditions: http://www.charlotte.com/business/columnists/doug_smith/story/470951.html It's really too bad; I was looking forward to seeing what that project would add to S. Tryon. I guess it will just be a little longer until we find out.

I'd just forget about it. It could be 2019 until we see that project go under way.

I'd just forget about it. It could be 2019 until we see that project go under way.

And that's based on......????

Raleigh, while I wouldn't want to see the project scaled down, I think it would possibly work (get built sooner) if more office space and less residential were incorporated into the project. With Charlotte's vacancy rate as low as it is right now, it seems to me that such a change would be feasible.

Well, here is an excert that could shed some light:
Dewberry said market acceptance of 300 South Tryon so far has been "tremendous," with 72 of nearly 100 condos under contract in the first phase. Units were priced from the $200,000s to about $1.6 million, he said.
With reservations over 70%, I would think that it may be harder to fill the office space than selling the residential condos. I cannot see why they would delay this project if they have so much interest, unless they lost some potential office tenants. Hopefully, we'll hear some positive news in the next few months.

Yay. Another delayed highrise for Charlotte. They deserve it for hogging it all. Give them a taste of our own medicine. I hope more get delayed too. :tongue:

And that's based on......????


Nothing. Just the fact that delayed projects could take years to get completed, or begin for that matter.

Very odd that 70% of the condos are under contract but the project is delayed. Even if they didn't have a single office tenant lined up, the vacancy rate in Uptown is so low that Charlotte is in desperate need of 'move-in ready' office space.

Without secure tenants, financing is tough. If the developer wants to put the hand deep in his pocket, this project would move forward faster, but I suspect they haven't secured a major office tenant. That is just my theory, without knowing much about this project.

^^That's what i'm guessing too. :yes: Pretty much any project would start with around 70% of the condos pre-sold if it was just a residential building, but this isn't one of those. I hope all of the highrises proposed for Charlotte get cancelled. :banana: They deserve it. The odd thing is that I haven't been to that city since 2004, while i've been to Atlanta at least 15 times since 2005.

The reason 300 South Tryon has been delayed not, cancelled, is they want a lease on the office part of the building. It will start as soon as they can get a tenant.

The reason 300 South Tryon has been delayed not, cancelled, is they want a lease on the office part of the building. It will start as soon as they can get a tenant.

It is hard to imagine the developers of 300 S. Tryon cancelling the project after spending millions of dollars on opening a sales office, advertising, site clearing and prep work........

And to further compound the mystery: why would a developer end a project that was enjoying brisk pre sales?

And don't forget Charlotte has a 1% downtown office vacancy rate:weird:

This is truly a mystery:dunno:

So if the project is waiting on an anchor tenant, this project should be back on track very soon. Wasn't there talk of a bank being that tenant at one point?

People speculated that RBC Centura could have been the tenant because there was a rendering with that bank's logo on the top.

I was by 300 South Tryon today and they were unloading re-bar off a truck.

^I work right there and I've seen things like this all the time the past few weeks. I thought things were moving along just fine. How many square feet of office space will this project contain? It can't be that much in the big picture. Having a few hundred thousand square feet of vacant move-in-ready office space is something Uptown could use. I can't believe that the lack of an anchor tenant is what's delaying this project.

They are still running ads for condos.

They are still running ads for condos.

Man this is crazy!:eek:

What kind of sales pitch can 300 S. Tryon's developers use when they're selling condos? "Oh yes, the building has been cancelled, but we'll sell you a unit."

I think they lie about the presales. People on other sites claim they were at the 300 S. Tryon sales office just last week and were told construction was to begin anytime.

No worries for Charlotte either way IMO. Cranes are scattered all over the skyline right now. No big worry. :cheers:

In the paper it said it was not canel, but delayed. Condo sales will continue.

Dewberry said market acceptance of 300 South Tryon so far has been "tremendous," with 72 of nearly 100 condos under contract in the first phase. Units were priced from the $200,000s to about $1.6 million, he said.

Littlejohn said, "All the people I talk to are so excited about being downtown. Some are going to be very disappointed that this very needed downtown project will be delayed."

Charlotte is beginning to feel the pain of a national slowdown as housing sales decline, building permits fall and credit tightens.

Economists believe the slump will be less severe and shorter lived here than in the rest of the country, but experts don't expect the bleeding to stop before mid-2008.

Dewberry didn't know how long 300 South Tryon might be postponed, but he believes it still will be started this year.

He said Spectrum plans to continue selling residential units and taking nonbinding reservations on office space during the postponement.

I was on the UP site and the way they're talking over there it sounds like it's been cancelled indefinately, like it won't happen anytime soon. Do you all on this site think there will be a chance this project will still go up by year's end? I want to see something go on that site? I get tired of seeing it being an eyesore surface lot.

02/06/08 There was a ad in todays paper for 300 South Tryon Condos. If it was cancel, they would not be selling condos.

Catalyst Condos 02/14/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P2141464.jpg

Another Uptown project that is growing like weeds :)

I'm no developer by any means, but being that very little subterranean prep work was done for Catalyst, it looks like it might topple if another Hugo came through this area. Otherwise, I'm really impressed at how fast this thing is going up. Seems like it was announced out of nowhere and came up out of the ground out of nowhere.

02/06/08 There was a ad in todays paper for 300 South Tryon Condos. If it was cancel, they would not be selling condos.

300 was never cancelled, it was postponed. Its still selling condos, in fact they are 75% sold out of phase 1, more than enough to get a condo tower built. The problem is that even with the condo selling out so fast, they lost a major tenant for their office portion. There had been talks of RBC Centura occupying a very large portion of the tower, but talks must have either ceased, or slowed. The Developer apparently couldn't swallow the idea of all spec office portion, even if the vacancy rate is at a record low. There are reasons for low vacancy rates, and not all of them suggest a hot office market, for instance, there hasn't been an office tower completed in downtown charlotte since the hearst building, and that was immediately gobbled up by BofA. There honestly hasn't been any indicators that suggests Charlotte would be a good spec market, and thats what spectrums problem is. I imagine it will use Trinity Capital/Novare's Office building down the road as a market indicator, before the decide whether or not a spec tower is feasible in the current market conditions. Its a shame really, there are hot office markets in the region, southpark, whitehall, places in rock hill. All of these places are booming because of lower prices, something that downtown no longer has, as that the low vacancy rates have caused rate climbs. I think downtown charlotte could be a hot spec office market, its just someones gotta do it first, and apparently trinity capital will be those who do. This building will get off the ground as soon as people stop throwing around the fictional word, Recession, which is scaring the pants off half of America. As soon as george bush keeps his mouth shut and the market starts back on its upswing we'll see this tower rise from the ground. It will happen, its far too important of a location for the building not to get built.

Vue 02/15/08 Looks like work has begun.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P2151506.jpg

Cool. I look forward to seeing this one rise out of the ground as well.

02/18/08
Went by there today and they were a lot of workers doing many things.

“Now that we have approval on the easements, we are moving forward 100 percent with construction,” said Randy Grueb, vice president for MCL Companies, the developer of The VUE.

The VUE began major excavations for the tower and parking garage and will install the soil-wall shoring. The installation of the caissons will follow in March with tower crane installation to follow shortly thereafter.

“We’re going to have a lot of moving parts soon, and it will be exciting to see all the activity,” Grueb said. “When we get to this point in the construction process, people really get a chance to see the progress of the building as we move above ground. "

:banana: I'm going to try and make it up to Charlotte next weekend. :D

Quarterside condos in First Ward.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Quarterside/P2181521.jpg

Catalyst 02/25/2008

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/2008-02-25.jpg

It still amazes me how fast Catalyst is going up. I think that's the fastest I've ever seen a tower rise.

By the Vue today. They are in full force working on this site. Will get pictures when there is something to see. They are digging out a big hole for the condo tower.

I think the First Ward projects, like Quarterside, will really turn out good and make more of an impression than we think (at least in terms of density if nothing else).

The Vue 02/27/08
[IMG]http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/200

02-28-08 The Tower Condos not moving too fast. They should be completed by 2012.:fiddle:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/The%20Tower/P2281851.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/The%20Tower/P2281852.jpg

What the hell is taking that tower so long??

Catalyst Condos 03/03/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3032024.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3032033.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3032045.jpg

Progress on the Vue Condos 03/03/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3032006.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3031987.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3031995.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3031993.jpg

^^Great shots man. :okay: One of these days, i'm going to get up there and take some pics. :)

^^
Why don't you wait until these projects finish, first? Just a suggestion :poke:

^^Because I want the projects to go on hold. If they're complete then they can't go on hold. :D

All right, son :lol:

03-10-08 Catalyst is growing fast now days.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3102498.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3102496.jpg

Web Cam picture of the Royal Cour condos under construction. 03-09-08

http://oxblue.com/pro/open/?webPath=coxschepp/royalcourt

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Royal%20Court/Royal_Court-20080309-181252.jpg

Wow, Breathtaking! Thanks for the link.

Royal Court is going to have some killer views of Uptown.

^^
My thoughts, exactly!!!

Anyone like to bet? My two predictions:

Catalyst will be topped out and completed before the Park.:wtf:

Catalyst will be topped out and completed before the Smith/Curry Tower.:omg:

Any takers?

Do you know something we don't know? ;)

The Vue Condos 03-12-08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3122728.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3122726.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3122721.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3122717.jpg

Vue Up date

one crane is up and running.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3143733.jpg

Construction stopped on 210 trade at Epicentre: http://charlotte.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2008/03/17/story1.html Finally my wish is coming true. More delayed highrises for Charlotte. Give them a taste of our medicine for once. :D

^ The bad news is that they've just got some legal issues to work through and they expect to resume withing 60 days. This per UP.

How many floors will Catalyst have when it tops out?

^^17 I believe. Don't quote me on that though.

27 Floors

^^17 I believe. Don't quote me on that though.

Good thing nobody quoted you on it, oh wait i did crap. 27 is the correct number, not 17, so that means there are 12 stories to go.

^^It was ummm...a typo. Yeah that's it. A typo. I meant to put 27 but accidently put 17. ;)

On Church St. going south. The Catalyst Condos on the right and Wachovia on the upper left. I need some sunny days for better pictures.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3183859.jpg

Progress at the Vue Condos. 03-19-08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3193966.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3193971.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3193961.jpg

03-21-08 Those two guys working on The Park is making some progress.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/The%20Park/P3214079.jpg

^^Some? It looks the same as it did a year ago. :lol: More condo projects on hold: http://www.charlotte.com/business/columnists/doug_smith/story/545950.html :D

In the paper today, the Park still have workers on site. Look and see if you can seen any.

In the paper today, the Park still have workers on site. Look and see if you can seen any.

I've tried and tried, but I've seen none...and we walked around it the other day before the Checkers game got going.

They must be at lunch.

The Vue is coming along. 03/21/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3214103.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3214101.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3214092.jpg

http://www.charlotte.com/business/columnists/doug_smith/story/545950.html[/url] :D

Ummm, that article didn't reveal more condo projects on hold. As a matter of fact, it contained no new information at all.

I think Doug was off on some of those projects.

Cars for the Encore Condo buyers.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Encore/P3214087.jpg

I don't wanna see cars on the site, I wanna see construction!

Ummm, that article didn't reveal more condo projects on hold. As a matter of fact, it contained no new information at all.

So. They're still delayed.

So. They're still delayed.

This happens when you build towers that are over 6 stories high Greenville - it gets delayed but usually gets built. No worries.

These towers will get built sooner or later. In the meantime, we have plenty of towers going up. :cheers:

^^And why do we need highrises again in Greenville? We already have an award winning downtown that people want to go to. :)

^^And why do we need highrises again in Greenville? We already have an award winning downtown that people want to go to. :)

Molt be deia. Penso aixi tambe.

I very much agree :)


Barcelona -
http://www.reise-bekleidung.de/barcelona/barcelona%20skyline.jpg


But you have to love North American skylines. I personally think South Park has one of the greatest skylines.

^^And why do we need highrises again in Greenville? We already have an award winning downtown that people want to go to. :)

So why do you keep whining about your delayed and cancelled highrise projects?

^^Because the sites currently are a bunch of eyesores. They look like a scene from I Am Legend. :(

Who cares about eyesores? They didn't hinder downtown Greenville from winning awards. So you really don't need anything to be built there; people still want to go downtown, right? ;)

^^Yes, but that one across from the Bilo Center makes me want to puke everytime I see it. It's known as the gateway to downtown. You obviously don't want the gateway into an award winning downtown to be a hole with weeds growing out of it and an ugly green wall around it: http://www.flickr.com/photos/restedtraveler/476267279/

g-man you are right, it is an eye sore.

The Catalyst condos 03-24-08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3244201.jpg

Hey, I just noticed the windows on Catalyst. Looking good!

The Vue Condos ---They have two machines drilling holes for the foundation. 03-24-08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3244195.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3244180.jpg

Another "low rise" for NoDa.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y183/Kwinone/Mecury.jpg

Posted on Tue, Mar. 25, 2008
Remaking the Theater
DOUG SMITH

A landmark building in Charlotte's NoDa neighborhood would survive and be rejuvenated as part of a $40 million block-long residential-commercial redevelopment planned at North Davidson and East 36th streets.
The Neighborhood Theatre, Boudreaux's Louisiana Kitchen and other tenants would be joined by midrise condos and more shops in a project called MercuryNoDa.

The initial six-story building in the $26 million first phase would include 130 residential condos (500 to 1,160 square feet each) and 3,500 square feet of retail space.

Condo prices start at $120,000 for the smallest studio and range to about $300,000 for the largest two-bedroom unit.

Developer Tyler Foster of Hyperion Group said he hopes to start construction of the first mixed-use building by late fall and finish it in about a year.

The timetable will depend on how quickly he can sell at least 50 percent of the condos.

Foster envisions a development that blends with existing architecture and enhances the pedestrian friendliness of a corner of North Charlotte once known as the city's second square.

His goal is to bring more services into the neighborhood in the first construction phase.

A specialty grocer would be the targeted retail anchor for the second phase, which would include residences atop 16,000 square feet of commercial space in a three-story building with a parking deck.

NoDa traces its roots to homes and businesses that sprang up in the North Charlotte neighborhood during the early 1900s, creating a mill village around the Highland Manufacturing Co.

In the early days, a streetcar connected to a neighborhood business hub that included a hotel, drugstores, grocery stores, police station and movie theater.

Today, MercuryNoDa is striving to become a Next Big Thing in a resurgence that originated in the 1970s with artists, dancers and actors seeking affordable homes and commercial space.

They were the impetus behind the name North Davidson Arts District, which was concentrated around the North Davidson-East 36th streets intersection in a part of North Charlotte now known by the acronym NoDa.

Foster said he intends to perpetuate the neighborhood's artsy theme and funky character with condos priced within reach of first-time buyers.

City council member Patsy Kinsey, whose District 1 includes NoDa, said she walked the site with Foster before it came up for rezoning and was satisfied with his proposal because the neighborhood supported it.

The City Council approved the zoning change for the 3.87-acre site earlier this month.

"I think it will add to the neighborhood," Kinsey said. "And I think NoDa will embrace that price range. They are receptive to all types of residential opportunities."

NoDa residents do worry about preserving the neighborhood's character in the face of large-scale land speculation fueled by anticipation of light-rail service to University City possibly by 2015.

The Charlotte Area Transit System has begun planning for a proposed 11-mile extension of the Lynx Blue Line with stops in NoDa.

The challenge for city leaders is encouraging the density needed to support light rail service without overwhelming the neighborhood.

In MercuryNoDa's first-phase building, five floors of condos would be on top of one below-ground parking level and one above-ground level.

Foster said the project's exterior design "will harken back a little bit to the mills with a contemporary flair."

New and existing buildings would be connected by a courtyard, public plaza and pedestrian way.

"The outdoor space will look like a big outdoor room with mosaics on the sides of the buildings," Foster said. "It will feature a lot of public art."

One existing single-family house would remain after first-phase site clearing, and a neighboring funeral home would be demolished in the second phase.

Foster said an arbor at the back of the site would help buffer the new masonry buildings from existing homes.

Both phases would have parking decks. The second-phase deck is being designed with air rights available for the city if it chooses to expand the structure later, Foster said.

Vehicles would enter MercuryNoDa via Mercury, North Davidson and North Alexander streets.

Foster plans to start remodeling of the existing building, constructed in the mid-1940s, about the same time work begins on the new structure.

"The back of the building will be completely renovated," he said. "Our goal is to put on an addition with more bathrooms, a bar-seating area and offices to the back of the theater."

The exact work schedule will be determined in negotiations with existing tenants. "We want to do it at a time that's convenient for them," Foster said.

He anticipates starting the second-phase building and parking deck when about 70 of the first-phase condos are completed.

In the second phase, Foster said, he would let the market determine what type of residences to build. Possibilities include flats and live-work units, he said.

The announcement of MercuryNoDa comes as the housing market experiences a construction slowdown and lower sales, but Foster believes his product is unusual enough to appeal even in a down market to fans of a unique neighborhood.

He said he's negotiating with two banks for financing.

About 70 percent of the first-phase condos are studio and one-bedroom units, and about 30 percent have two bedrooms, he said.

"One of the differences in this housing climate is this is true work force housing," Foster said. "There is not much out there in this price range, and a person with good credit should be able to afford to buy."

MercuryNoDa

LocationNorth Davidson and East 36th streets.

SIZE

Six-story and three-story buildings plus parking developed around the Neighborhood Theatre.

SPECIFICS

130 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units in first-phase building with 3,500 square feet of retail. Second phase to include residences and 16,000 square feet of commercial space in three-story building.

PRICES

First-phase condos (500 to 1,160 square feet each) range from $120,000 to $300,000.

TIMETABLE

Construction tentatively starts by fall and takes about a year to complete. Second-phase start to be determined.

FEATURES

Rooftop decks, balconies with every unit, secure parking at one space per bedroom plus overflow spaces, two elevators in first building, sculptures in courtyard and mosaics on building walls, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) construction, storage units, bike storage, fitness center.

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Hyperion Group, developer; BB+M Architecture, architect; CGR Creative, marketing. Negotiations under way with contractors.

SALES

On-site sales center to open by mid-April. Sheryl Hallow of Skyline by Bissell Hayes in charge of sales.

INFORMATION

http://www.mercurynoda.com

Link: http://www.charlotte.com/485/story/552524.html

NoDa seems to have incredible potential to become a very urban area. This latest proposal is definitely a great way to transform the area in a major way. The prices seem to be reasonable, too.

i really like the branding they have on the side of the building. on the other side it says 'NODA' which is a good way to establish a sense of place within an emerging area. in this case, i guess noda is established, it is just building upon what is there.

Work on the Vue in the rain today. 03/31/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3314850.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3314849.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P3314848.jpg

The Catalyst Condos Up date 03/30/08

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P3274574.jpg

I didn't notice that they'd already started installing windows on Catalyst. How many more floors do they have to go, and when is the office building slated to begin construction?

8 more floors to go on catalyst. Office Tower should go verticle sometime this spring. There has been more and more movement on site lately.

^Thanks for that info. I did see the sign for the office tower on the site when I rode past today.

Catlayst and the Wachovia tower make a huge impression coming into Uptown from S. Tryon. I can only imagine how it will look at full buildout.

Catalyst Condos 04/09/08
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P4095402.jpg

They are busy pouring concrete at the Vue.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Vue/P4095385.jpg

^Look at O'Dell back there, all alone. :( LOL

^^ :lol:

^Look at O'Dell back there, all alone. :( LOL

Don't worry it will be joined by first third bank and apartments in no time :-) but yes it does look very lonely but it should have friends comin.

So...these rumors that the Wachovia tower will be 54 stories...anyone heard anything more on it?

Yes, I hear it from a worker on the Wachovia Tower site.

^But does that mean an increase in overall height?

We will find out in about 2 years.

It's on the books somewhere. Somebody needs to sniff that info out. :)

One problem, it'll top off in 1 year...

04/15/08 The Catalyst

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P4155725-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b287/Wlangston1/Condos/Catalyst/P4155724b.jpg