The Chicago Spire in Chicago

Nearby Buildings

• River View I
• North Pier Tower
• Lake Shore Drive Bridge
• Tall Tower
• 500 North Lake Shore Drive
• River View II
• City View Condominiums Building One
• 530 North Lake Shore Drive
• Cityfront Place
• ParkView West

There are 520 comments.

  This Will be a Fabulous Building for Chicago. It's time for a change for the Skyline its beautiful and i Hope it will eventually will be built once the economy recovers!

James - Saturday, February 23rd, 2013 @ 7:29pm  

  i grow up in chicago i think it very good design i like to visit it in real person to see how big it is

luke - Sunday, December 4th, 2011 @ 9:55pm  

  Being born and raised in the Chicago area, I have taken great pride in the city. Its architecture and urban design contribute in making Chicago an amazing and unique city. While the city retains many traditional qualities in its architecture, it is, as well and innovative city. Iâ��m sure the countryâ��s first skyscraper built right here, was praised and ridiculed as much as the Spire is today. Why should things change, right? The Spire, in my opinion, contributes to the innovative aspects of the city rather than marring its appearance. It is a magnificent design and I see it as an achievement worth completing.Though, I must admit my sincere disappointment in that the highest habitable space in the world is going to be privately owned. It is very disappointing indeed, which is why I dropped a star off of my rating. Why should such grand, one of a kind view be reserved for a select few? I prefer to see the Spire as a building for Chicago and its people, rather than an ivory tower which its current design conveys. It should be inclusive to anyone and everyone who wishes to experience it... and can afford the price of admission, of course.

Steven L. - Friday, July 29th, 2011 @ 1:47pm  

  Although a great idea for the city and a unique design that will add to the marvel of the Trump tower, it will unfortunately never come about. Due to the financial woes of Shelbourne Development company, it has now been sitting idle for almost 4 years. Unfortunate, as it had a lot of promise and would have brought a lot of money and work into the city.

Caoimhin - Tuesday, June 28th, 2011 @ 11:30am  

  I have visited Chicago several times and the city never ceases to amaze me. The new Chicago Spire when completed will be a good reason to return . The Spire will look amazing on its own and when future new buildings are added will be accepted as part of the evolving achitectural history of the city and the world.

ERIC BOOTH - Tuesday, June 21st, 2011 @ 6:30am  

  I am originally from the Chicago area, and would love to see Chicago have a building of this height or taller, but I cannot believe the number of people praising the design of this proposed building. It is ugly, and does not fit at all in with the existing skyline. I read a comment of someone proposing it be colored black instead of a the lighter color, and that might improve it a little bit. I think a complete redesign would also be better. Lets face it. It looks like a giant screw.

Kurt - Sunday, May 15th, 2011 @ 2:19pm  

  The idea's been growing on me, with the drill bit design.It's more than a question of a new skyscraper. To me, the John Hancock will still be the quintisential sky scraper, with it's innovative outer beam construction which gave it a modern architectural design. For that reason, I've been looking at the Spire with an open mind. I will continue to refer to certain buildings as the Sears Tower, not the willis; and the Standard Oil Building, not the aon center. I love my Chicago from when it had class and heritage and roots. Now it seems so many residents are transplants and have no concept of what Chicago was based on and why it became the city it is. My concern is that the Spire will be opening the door to changing the city into "green-global warming-save the whales-make love not war-socialistic CRAP". Architecture is one thing, but let us not change into something we aren't. I had to move out of state more than 20 years ago, and I still go "home" many times a year to see family, and marvel at how beautiful my city of big shoulders is with it's placement of the towers and zoning, it's parks, it's beach-front, and the legendary designs of F.L.Wright, and Skidmore Owings and Merrill. Chicago has always been "an American city" but reaching out to the entire world; let's not lose that and become just another NY, LA, etc..Bottom line: I'm indifferent and trying to keep and open mind.On a lighter note: At least make it the tallest building worldwide! I remember when we had the record after big John, and then NY had a fit; we topped it hands down after the Sears, and we've been playing second fiddle ever since. The city with the most beautiful architecture and the birth of the skyscraper deserves the tallest (in every catagory) building rights too! We Chicagoans love to boast, don't forget, that's why we have the nickname, "the windy city". (No it never had anything to do with the actual wind.)

4th generation Chicago Hallett - Sunday, March 6th, 2011 @ 12:22pm  

  I'm still waiting good news on this building; people are saying that this will not be built (completely dead project), but I hope they are wrong :)>such a building will put Chicago's skyline at the top

sabin - Monday, January 24th, 2011 @ 3:21pm  

   It will be a crime if this stunning building is not eventually completed without being ruined by too many revisions. It is in the conceptual realm of Frank Lloyd Wright's "Mile-High", and far more attractive than many existing high-rises already on the skyline, particularly the mundane stacked-children's-bulding-blocks Sears Tower (or whatever the current name might be) â�� a plain ugly building, or the dreary behemoth-brownstone North Pier Apartments, The Spire gives the Chicago skyline a needed exclamation point that will provide instant world-wide recognition as does the Transamerica Pyramid for San Francisco, and the Eiffel Tower for Paris.

David Ross - Saturday, December 11th, 2010 @ 4:04am  

  I'd love nothing more than to see this built!. Chicago is the perfect setting for this beautiful building. I just hope it actually happens......Chicago's skyline is waiting!!!

Phil - Sunday, December 5th, 2010 @ 2:00pm  

  I must agree, some must be jealous; chicago has the most beautiful skyline in the world. It is the home of all modern skyscrapers. It is incredible how they have mixed the old with the new, in achitectual design, and engenuity.

viemcigee - Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 @ 8:27pm  

  I think it's great that Chi-Town is building the tower and screw all you people who hate the idea of building the tower! I think it will be great for America to have a building such as this,also I think they should add a tall spire at the top of the tower so it can be the world's tallest building!

chris meinsen - Thursday, September 23rd, 2010 @ 8:25am  

  I really hope the construction will resume soon. This beautiful gem will place Chicago back on the map of modern urban super architecture.

james stauber - Friday, September 10th, 2010 @ 1:54pm  

  Best idea ever, I so have to live here when its built!

spencer cody - Wednesday, September 8th, 2010 @ 11:15am  

  Very clever Calatrava, we get it, you clicked the autocad feature that rotates every floor incrementally- and got the same result as everyone else- a drill bit, what genius!Can you hit 'undo' now and see if you can come up with something a little more original and appropriate for Chicago?

G Threepwood - Wednesday, August 25th, 2010 @ 9:54am  

  This building will be kickass. Definetly a great move for US in their architecture. As far as i know the US doesnt have any futuristic buildings like Dubai. Great move Chicago.

Keith Walter - Thursday, August 5th, 2010 @ 6:59pm  

  Looking at these pictures of this â��(monstrosity)â�� (to be), brings alot of descriptive word definitions to my mind: (outlandish) = extremely unusual or bizarre. Alien or foreign. (Lemmings) = doomed â��conformistsâ��: symbolically, a member of a large group of people who blindly follow one another on a course of action that will lead to destruction for all â�¦ in this case - the destruction of Chicagoâ��s practical looking, corporate-based American city skyline. -- Intelligent people are a minority on this planet. I applaud the one-star (or less than one star) raters of this monstrosity for their un-lemming like reasoning - and accurate appraisal.

A Freak Monstrocity - Saturday, July 10th, 2010 @ 12:46pm  

  Wow! I love the whole design of this building! I agree with both sides; It would look awkward in Chicago especially when you think about how the rest of the buidlings are boxy and straight, but I also think that currently, the spot light has been stolen (Architecturally) by Dubai. (U.A.E.) They have been building tower, after tower, after tower! Even now they are currently working on more spectacular buildings to steal the show with. Some traitors in the U.S have flown over seas to fuel the growing city. The U.S used to be a wolrd power. I dont know what happened...

John K. - Friday, May 14th, 2010 @ 8:39pm  

   I traveled all around the world,I have seen all the new asian buildings going up,this would now compete,and blow them away.this is the home of the skyscrapers,have we forgotten that we are americans,that building is who we are not only in chicago,but to the world

angel - Sunday, May 9th, 2010 @ 2:49am  

  In my opinion, the building is amazing ! When It is completed in 2012, I think that most of the people who live in the city of Chicago will be very proud of it. I'm a big fan of the Chicago skyline. I hate saying this, but I think that it will blow all the other super tall skyscrapers in the Chicago skyline away! My only negative comment concerns the building's location. It seems to me that a building this tall and of this design should sit further back into the skyline and not so much in your face. The city's shore line should be saved or set aside for parks and recreation for residents of the city and visitors to enjoy, not for condos or commercial buildings. All in all from an architectural stand point, it's a great building ... can't wait to see it completed!

Mark - Monday, March 29th, 2010 @ 9:20pm  

  It is interesting to read all the comments and it seems that most people like the building but think that the Chicago Spire will not fit in with the Chicago skyline, and that is a very good point, one I happen to understand. The key Chicago buildings that are always mentioned in respect to th eskyline are the Sears Tower and the John Hancock Building. Both of these towers happen to be black. The Aon(Amoco) Bldg is not even mentioned, yet it is the second tallest building in the city and bears more than a passing resemblance the late lamented WTC in NYC.The Aon Bldg predates the WTC by five years or so and is clad in North Carolina gray granite. Nevertheless, perhaps the new Chicago Spire might fit in better if it were black, rather than the now all too common stainless steel cladding. Besides, Chicago made the black skyscraper famous as well. In addition to Sears and Hancock, consider the all residential black clad Lake Point Tower which sits to the east of the Spire, and the all residential black clad Wolf Point Tower which sits to the south. The black clad finish for the Spire is just a thought, but I think it would work, and the comments are correct that there s/b an observation deck. It would be a huge cash cow for the building and might help get the project back on track.

John J. Kevil, Jr. - Friday, February 12th, 2010 @ 6:43pm  

  It will look great. For all u people hating... shut up and go home. This design shows great architecture. It is a very difficult one so if it can be done than it is an accomplishment. Who cares who doesnt like it. People strive to do their job and meet goals. Building the spire is someones goal. This is a modern world and the sears tower is outdated. Its time for a new look. Every other big city has a big new modern designed skyscraper...why cant we.Do u have a better design...is it being built.....nooooo. Appreciate it and stop being negative.

GEORGE - Saturday, January 23rd, 2010 @ 7:10am  

  It reminds me OHTA-CENTER of Saint-Petersburg.. Strangeble!

Kseniya - Tuesday, December 15th, 2009 @ 2:06pm  

  Chicago is and always has been my number one favorite city. The skyline is, in my opinion, the most beautiful skyline i've ever seen. i think this "Spire" is a great idea, brilliant and all, but I don't think it belongs in the Chicago skyline. the Sears (I don't agree with calling the the Willis) Tower has been the key item in Chicago's skyline since '74 and i believe it should remain that way. It's become too traditional to add something that looks like a giant white drillbit, stealing the attention away from the sears, john hancock, aon, and so on. Overall, I don't think it will benefit the beauty of the windy city.

bryan - Sunday, December 13th, 2009 @ 10:15pm  

  Anyone who thinks this building will be 'out of place' in Chicago must think we are going to quit building skyscrapers after the Spire is complete. If so, the Spire might look out of place. Not if it is the first in a wave of buildings that rival the eye-catching skyscrapers that seem to be all over Asia. (not to mention the global wonder that is Dubai) The Trump tower paved the way for the Spire quite nicely with its classic, yet 21st century look. Chicago's skyline is awe-inspiring from every angle and the location of this building will accentuate that aspect of the skyline. Though skylines like those of Dubai, Hong Kong, and Shanghai may be considered more 'spectacular,' Chicago's skyline is by far the most aesthetically pleasing. This is due in part to a city plan that is not absurdly dense like NYC and many Asian cities. There is a sense of organization, and plenty of room to expand AND build within. If these modern skyscrapers begin to dot downtown Chicago, and possibly expand the skyline, say, to the south, e.g., One Museum Park and One Museum Park West, Chicago can create an unrivaled and never before seen combination of functionality, style (classic and modern), and aesthetic appeal, topped off with a progressive attitude. My beloved home-town of Chicago may be the only city on the planet with the opportunity to be such a wonderland of classic AND modern skyscraper architecture. It makes sense that only the birthplace of the skyscraper can achieve this unique balance. The potential is exciting, execution will remain the deciding factor.Sorry for the essay, enjoy your Spire, Chicago!!

Matt - Wednesday, December 9th, 2009 @ 11:38pm  

  Lucky people of Chicago to have a skyscraper to complete with the beauty of any built so far in Dubai.

Peter Williams - Saturday, November 28th, 2009 @ 12:20am  

  with this building, chicago will be returning to it's history of explosive and innovative design. The city is built on a large body of water, making this design not only appropriate for it's location, but a complement to the water.I am glad to see Chicago return to it's history of boldness. Once completed, this will become an instant monument, and a classic addition to the skyline. Suddenly Dubai is in trouble, but chicago will show the world that their skyline is a serious work in progress.

Robert A Hayes - Friday, November 27th, 2009 @ 1:38pm  

  This is a tremendous piece of architecture, and I hope that it eventually gets built. But the City, as a condition to agreeing to change the zoning laws should have required that a publicly available observation deck be included at the top.

Captain Video - Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 @ 12:27pm  

  i think this building will make the skyline look less beautiful and is too odd of a shape to fit in with the not so modern or natural shapes of the other buildings. It will just look like a giant drill bit coming out of the middle of the Chicago skyline and the money could be put to better things. It is beautiful building i admit, but not the location for it, maybe Taipei?

Jack - Monday, November 23rd, 2009 @ 7:25pm  

  As a Chicago resident I'm really trying to keep an open mind and find beauty in this project. I love seeing our city progress and I want to like this building. The concept of the the twisting spire is fantastic, but so far I can't get over the structure's height. It really does just dwarf everything in the skyline, and is that necessary to make a meaningful and historical architectural statement? I guess to some people the answer to that question is yes, but I can understand why a lot of Chicagoans don't appreciate the blatant in-your-face message that this design portrays.The fact that it's going to be strictly private residences is also disappointing. Another high rise condo building?? Yawn.

Katherine - Friday, November 20th, 2009 @ 12:09pm  

  I grew up in Chicago, became an architect, lived in the twin "corn cobs," Marina City and also Astor Tower, another Bertram Goldberg building. I feel that Goldberg is an architect who is kind of post Gaudi (who I believe is the leading architect for Spain an the Art Nouveaux movement). Gehry and Calatrava have created some gorgeous architecture, but maybe even further on a tangent of aesthetics that maybe should have ended with Gaudi. The Art Nouveaux was the death of classicism in my opinion, so altho magnificently beautiful and a great addition to our skyline, the "drill bit," may not be as progressive as it could be. As Mies said, "Less is more." I feel we need to be focusing on function, making buildings that have the tiniest carbon footprint rather than spectacular aesthetics. To achieve a non existent footprint, couldn't that be a classically beautiful masterpiece aesthetically? But. Still, love having the highest occupied floor again!!! LOL

Mark L. Iaconetti - Thursday, November 5th, 2009 @ 10:21am  

  It looks like a big screw. If you scroll the first picture up and down at the right speed it seems to screw into and out of the top of the frame. It will be a marvel when completed, but I don't know who will be able to afford to live in it.

Bob - Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 @ 11:02pm  

  I think it's cool now that we will have the new Chicago Spire. No matter if it's 2012, 2014, or 2016, Calatrava says "it will be built". With such confidence, he should have a branch headquarters in Chicago. Not only will the cool looking spiraling tower be built, but a new pedestrian bridge, that looks similar to Calatrava's Milwaukee Art Museum. I can be as patient as up to the time it's finished.

Brent Kampert - Sunday, October 11th, 2009 @ 11:18pm  

  In the end, I believe, all the naysers will recognize that the CHICAGO SPIRE will become a historic city/national landmark we can ALL be proud of and a symbol of TRUE FREEDOM that we daily take for granted. This is part of the American Dream. Do what you believe is right regardless of the opposition. Calatrava brings a fusion of the past with the elegance of a neoclassic design the will lead Chicago forward into the future of architecture. We may have lost the Sears Tower name to the new Willis Tower, but we will now have the Chicago Spiral to replace its glory and splendor.

romexican - Saturday, October 10th, 2009 @ 10:43am  

  I think this building is perfect for Chicago. The design and shape of it is meant for wind, and living in the Windy City, it's just perfect. I don't truly like what it's going to do for the skyline, but it's not THAT bad either, it's just a bit brighter looking then I'm used to, but then again, once it's finished, maybe it'll be different, and fit in more.

Danielle - Saturday, September 19th, 2009 @ 10:43pm  

  I don't get how some folks say this 'will ruin' the skyline of Chicago. That's ridiculous. I personally think it's a beautiful building, but even if one doesnt like the design, how can it 'ruin' the skyline.That's just emotional dreck.What they SHOULD do it put a spire on top of it so it'll be the tallest building in the world...and keep it secret until the other building in off the wall countries have already built theirs. LOL.

Joe - Friday, August 28th, 2009 @ 10:09pm  

  Okay, it's looks and sounds great, but to tell you the truth, I don't think this would go right with the other buildings. It just looks like a tall white/glass building. But to tell you the truth, I do not like it at all.

Allison - Sunday, August 23rd, 2009 @ 6:47pm  

  This building is nothing but a hole in the ground, and I hope that's all it will ever be. Chicago already has the most beautiful skyline I have ever seen and this will destroy it. What an ego somebody has to want to put this monstrosity in the middle of a beautiful harbor.

Carolann Scott - Monday, August 10th, 2009 @ 1:03pm  

  I admire a lot of skyscrapers in Asia, Europa, America or Australia ( I love the Eureka tower of Melbourne) , but no building in the whole wide world is going to be so spectacular as this work of art. Mr.Calatrava is going to create the most fantastic and admired building of Chicago and of the world.

Santiago Sierra, Barcelona, Spain. - Friday, July 17th, 2009 @ 2:10pm  

  Being a Californian, we don't see a whole lot of extreme architecture like this. In Ca. people would be too preoccupied with how they would stucco this thing, like every other building in the whole state nearly. Very tired of the same old thing, and loving great architecture, and an avid admirer of Frank Lloyd Wright, I applaud Chicago's attempt to bring such world class projects to the shores of Lake Michigan, and The Windy City. I staid in the Hilton and Towers back in the 80's during winter, and ventured out twice to go to "Mother's", and I know that the winds there are formidable even without the cold. It is great to see a design that celebrates the wind. Now lets see a design that will capture it, and generate enough wattage from the building to light up the whole city, for free!! Why avoid it, use it I say!! : ) GLTA of the Chicagoans who have that indominable spirit equal to that of New Yorkers, in terms of loving their city.

Pete - Monday, July 6th, 2009 @ 1:06pm  

  I'm from Chicago and I love the city, but this just doesn't look right along the skyline. chicago is a dark city which using the front to light it up. Looking at that picture it throw's everything off. It belongs in a bright city like Miami. I'm sure Florida would LOVE this. Not to say I don't like It. It's just to odd.....It's like Willis Tower it's too odd. US Chicagoins are still going to call Willis Tower the Sears Tower it will always be the sears Tower. Just Saying.

Aaron Dean - Thursday, July 2nd, 2009 @ 9:11am  

  The scale and proportion change radically without the spire. I'd like to see the new design given another few hundred feet of open spire with an observation platform near the top. And at the same time give US the tallest for the foreseeable future. But I'm sure I'm still going to love it if /when its built

Robert Thomas - Wednesday, July 1st, 2009 @ 8:58pm  

  It wont look like Chicago anymore. :[It doesnt fit nicely into the whole scenario. It robs too much attention from the rest of the beauty of Chicago.

Not worth It. - Thursday, June 25th, 2009 @ 10:38pm  

  I've been to Europe, and only two cities have what Chicago has...... Best skyline ever, best atmosphere , best city.... This will just improve the title a lot... Greetings from Mexico!

Miguel - Wednesday, June 17th, 2009 @ 6:12pm  

  I personally live VERY close to Chicago (withinwalkingdistance) and I think that the Spire would be the most extravagant thing EVER! I think it'a great idea and it would look amazing at night and from a distance. I love the idea, and I can't WAIT to see it.

Rylea Fanning - Monday, June 15th, 2009 @ 8:40pm  

  I have been to Chicago several times for leisure and it´s surely America´s most beautiful city by far and one of the world´s, and this building will add even more beauty and value to this wonderful skyline.Congratulations!

gustavo geraissati - Friday, June 5th, 2009 @ 1:05pm  

  This is an impressive building with an aspect ratio of almost 10 to 1. it seems that Calatrava has done it again, creating a marvel of Engineering and design that the locals will hate. Architecture will always be about change and i think it is time for Chicago the birth place of the sky scraper to embrace this.

Teddy - Sunday, May 24th, 2009 @ 5:54am  

  I think this building is awesome and would be great for the city. I really wish that we could bring the world's tallest building title back to Chicago, where it started.

Chris Pieper - Saturday, May 16th, 2009 @ 6:21pm  

  This is a great looking building, round twisted I love it.

This is a great looking building, round twisted I love it. - Sunday, May 10th, 2009 @ 9:20pm  

  This is a magnificant building. I'm so glad Chicago is going for a more modern look. I have been to Chicago many times and the skyline could use a new change and I think that this is a perfect building to spruce up the city's skyline. Chicago is the birth place of the skyscraper and this will be an excellent addition to a great city. I cant wait till the Spire is complete around 2012. Chicago's skyline will be so beautiful with the Spire.

Most Impressive - Friday, May 1st, 2009 @ 2:30pm  

  An absolutely awesome structure.Looking forward to see a new building gracing the Chicago skyline in movies other than the regular Hancock, etc.Wish I was still living there...

Carmen Van Zyl - Wednesday, April 29th, 2009 @ 2:42am  

  everyone that says its a bad idea is seriously stupid. Either because they live in another state and dont want Chicago to be the major icon of the US. or because their state can't satisfy them as Chicago and it burns them to see or city become better. For me Chicago is one of the best if not the best city in the world! And just like we are proud of the now called Willis Tower which was better the Sears Tower we all welcome the new Chicago Spire ^-^

Heriberto - Tuesday, April 28th, 2009 @ 11:15am  

  A beautiful and elegant building. Fingers crossed that they actually finish it, as this is a huge undertaking. For now, part of the beauty of the project is that the singular tower does stand alone, a beacon for the city where the skyscrapers originated. We have been constructing the same style of boxy skyscrapers in this country for almost a 100 years. This project is an interesting diversion and expresses the possibility of our architectural evolution. Other cities around the world have already begun to accomplish this, why should we be any less innovative. There is no question that I am bias to the incredible design talent of Santiago Calatrava, but our own American architects were, at one time, at the forefront of architectural innovation. So often their talents are utilized in other countries, not the USA. I can only hope that this building will be a catalyst to inspire our own American architects and developers to focus their talent and build their dreams again on US soil.

Paul Collett - Sunday, April 26th, 2009 @ 12:07pm  

  My professor always told me... practice save design, use a concept! Although this design does not fit the concept. This is a great example of the client taking an incredibly beautiful schematic design and trashing it. If you have seen the original sketches and images, you would know what I mean. One thing comes to mind... "The Fountainhead"! I am not sure if it is quite original either.

Statement for sure... but what? - Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 @ 12:18pm  

  Cool design but not for Chicago... A shiny 2000 ft q-tip splitting the classic skyline in half? And its all condos? This is the wrong city for this building.

Ugh - Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 @ 6:28pm  

  I really love the look of this building and thing it will be a great success. I love waking up looking out side and seeing nothing under me, the higher the better!

Nathan Cowan - Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 @ 1:33pm  

  Without question this building will let the world know that the Chicago skyline is the most vibrant and most beautiful work of art on the planet ,with the sphire only making it greater. I must say I was taken my the Freedom Tower Design but this is " off the chain". I own condo's in five major cities but none in Chi Town yet but I am lloking forward to living in this building.

Dr. Cleve A Trusclair, ( E Comm Solutions, Inc) - Wednesday, April 1st, 2009 @ 2:49am  

   This tower is beautiful! I look forward to completion. I want to see go to Chicago! There are plans to build the tower and around Japan. WOW!!

Kubo - Monday, March 30th, 2009 @ 7:18am  

  This structural building will definitely raise attention and turn heads. We mightpossibly be more in dangered to terrorist attacks, but takin a risk is what the US is all about. I live in Chicago, so this will be very interesting to see! I can't wait..

Omar Villalobos - Wednesday, March 25th, 2009 @ 4:27pm  

  It looks like a threshold nail! It will never be built.

Keith - Monday, March 23rd, 2009 @ 2:23pm  

  A truly wonderful and inspired design. I wish British planners would give the go-ahead for buildings like this one (although quite where they would put them I'm not too sure). It is reassuring to see that Chicago's long tradition of innovative and exciting architecture is still thriving. You must be very proud.

Winston - Monday, March 2nd, 2009 @ 8:51pm  

  Very interesting design. And its location.... would it throw the skyline out of balance? And how! Placing it in d'town somewhere in the company of Sears and Trump's would cause major damage, too..... uh-uh won't work either. This tower like this would be appropriate in Dubai, not Chicago.

Tom W. - Saturday, February 14th, 2009 @ 7:29pm  

  Santiago Calatrava you have inspired me alot because Ialso want to be an architect. I really like the way you designed this building. I think that this building will make chicago shine more. This is the best building I have seen. I can't wait to see it.

Pablo Nava - Friday, January 30th, 2009 @ 12:26pm  

  I am from Chicago, residing temporarily in the UK where the Prince shuns modern architecture in the City of London - unfortunate.Regarding the Spire - alone, the building is elegant and the wisp of smoke as inspiration is poetic. The building is beautiful. The fact that at the moment it doesn't seem to quite blend in with the skyline - well I do see that. However, initially I am sure the Hancock stuck out like a sore thumb, and the Sullivan buildings glass and steel constructions may have seemed out of place in comparison to the art decco inspired buildings of the past as well. The Spire will have an impact, new buildings will emerge in the years to come that will create cohesiveness between the new and old. I disagree with the autocad comment - I think its thrilling to think what the skyline will look like down the road with those kind of new innovations - steel and glass construction never became cliche did they? Chicago IS architecture - classic yes but also innovative and inspired.

Elizabeth - Thursday, January 29th, 2009 @ 9:37am  

  That looks so cool. Can't wait until it is finished. What a great work of architecture and construction.

Andrew - Sunday, January 25th, 2009 @ 12:27pm  

  I really hope this building gets completed. It would put Chicago back on the map when it comes to great Architecture!

Daniel - Friday, January 23rd, 2009 @ 1:39pm  

  I love tghis building, and it is a shame that construction has to stop. Alas, but money 'trumps' art in the long run. (and as for Trump tower respecting the neighborhood, he was obligated to do so; there was a large, vocal, and very well-organized resistance to him building just anything, and they were connected to the Mayor and the City Council) I still believe this building requires an antenna spire however. The top just looks incomplete without it. I'll settle for the building just getting built.

brickhugger - Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 @ 1:07pm  

  I had to give the building 5 stars - at least, architecturally. Calatrava is one of my heroes, and have loved most of his completed projects, and been in awe at his design/drawing board concepts. The world isn't ready for a lot of those concepts just yet, but that's what makes human endeavour great; mankind pushing boundaries, expanding the envelope, exploring concepts, testing the water. Santiago is a man of vision. He is way ahead in appreciation of the 'untapped' desire of man taking the next step. He loves to look into the future, possibly only with sketches of possibilities. Not serious design models maybe, but they are a guide to help people let go of their 'staid' attitudes to architecture and art - and to open up their imagination and allow themselves to dream a little.I am, though, a little worried about this project. Seriously.With Calatrava now having resigned from the project as lead architect siting unfulfilled contractual obligations from the developer as the main reason; Perkins & Will suing the developer for unpaid work; some of the contractors siting unpaid work; Kelleher siting huge errors in cost estimate - with current rumours that the slow down will cost $200m a year in delays.. Well we can all do the math..Without the principle architect (and let's face it, without Calatrava onboard - what's the point?), and with Shelbourne's financiers having to rebalance their books for the time being during this 5 year+ depression that we just bumped into, I think the project might be put on hold - indefinitely. At least until the world returns to some sort of growth. Yeah, it's sad to see the construction site silent and empty cranes sitting still, but peoples lives come first.It could just be, that possibly the most wonderful project in world architecture for many years has been given approval at possibly the worst time ever. Stalled by the mighty mechanism that put it on the map in the first place..Very sad, and my heart bleeds for Calatrava.

Russ - Wednesday, January 14th, 2009 @ 6:30pm  

  I live in Chicago and I can't wait to see this beautiful building completed. It will blend in very well into the best skyline in the world! Chicago will always be king of the skyscrapers :)

Felipe J. Montoya - Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 @ 10:07pm  

  THE CHICAGO SPIRE - What does it mean ? what does it mean to Chicago , The US, The World ? it means the following -S - Sensational.A - Amazing.N - Nice.T- Tremendous.I - Imagination.A - Attractive.G - Glorious.O - Opulent.C - Charismatic.A - Awesome.L - Luminous.A - Astonishing.T - Terrific.R - Rollicking.A - Ambitious.V - Visionary.A - Aureate.All this and much more.I wish , my loved ones and me, are fortunate to live in it ; God willing .Mr. Santiago Calatrava . My hat off to you . Cheers and more power and good luck to you .Regards and LoveDarsi B. Cooper.

DARSI B COOPER - Monday, January 5th, 2009 @ 2:50am  

  This is a great Skyscraper. I grew up most of my life in Chicago & love it. I am no longer a Chicagoan now resides in California. I miss the skyline also the city itself. To me Chicago has one of the best skyline in the world. When the Chicago Spire completed it will be the best skyline in the world.

Michael - Thursday, December 25th, 2008 @ 7:25pm  

  An absolutey stunning building. Dark Night, Cubs and Sox, President-Elect Barack Obama, and now the Chicago Spire. Welcome to Chicago 2016 olympic games

Peter - Sunday, December 21st, 2008 @ 1:46pm  

  Love Calatrava's work. So exciting to come across a piece of his brilliance. Just returned from a 10-day trek to Chicago. My first trip; I came home with a sore neck because I was so entranced with the beauty of the architecture. I stayed at the Congress Plaza, near where they're building. How awesome it will be. Wish the spire would stay - there's already a gherkin in London, and the wisp of smoke would be so dramatic and beautiful and it keeps the proportions light and airy, even at 2000 feet. Go Calatrava! Put something in my front yard! San Francisco is waiting. Vince

Vince Blaskovich - Sunday, December 14th, 2008 @ 5:15pm  

  i live in chicago and i've seen the hole. ive learned alot about this tower and this one building is gonna go up. ill be so happy to see asian cities be struck in awe when they see this.

builing fantic - Monday, December 8th, 2008 @ 9:28pm  

  I'm a little jealous that Montreal will never get a project like this - bon chance!

Marc - Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 @ 5:33am  

  chicago is the best site for great architecture... the home ofgreat american architects.. and the home of worlds first skyscrapers..

renie - Thursday, November 27th, 2008 @ 6:41am  

  This building is an inspiration for a lot of people, including myself. Just to be able to live in this edifice would be a glorious and magical experience. This wonder of the world has truly challenged me as a college student to follow my dreams to the maximum, so that I can accomplish great things, like Santiago Calatrava did.

David Hopp - Friday, November 14th, 2008 @ 2:53pm  

  I can't make up mind about it yet (and I have time considering construction's on hold). Like others have said, the drill bit image is hard to erase. But then you go to the site and you see the presentation video and you see something else. Anyway, not being a student, I still think the city needs to be careful when such a prime spot is being used. And I'm not against new designs, since that is Chicago, a living, in progress example of the history of archictecture. But I guess no one else could afford to build there.

gacy - Wednesday, November 12th, 2008 @ 6:06pm  

  Simply a brilliant feat in engineering and architecture. It's good to see modern society making progress towards the sky. The bigger the better! I'll come from Melbourne to see this. 5 stars

Mitchell Elliott - Tuesday, November 11th, 2008 @ 5:29am  

  Chicago is a city of great architecture. The reason why the architecture in Chicago is so pleasing to the eyes is because each building, while maintaining its own unique characters, also enhances the ones around it. Even the usually bombastic Trump respects that aspect of Chicago architectural tradition and builds one that looks simple and elegant. The Spire is the antithesis to all that. Much like the addition to the Soldier Field, it creates negative impact rather adding anything positive to our skyline.

Johnny - Thursday, October 30th, 2008 @ 8:21am  

  Despite some of the things those negative people have said, i absolutly adore this building! Chicago, already amazing in itself, would be even better with the Chicago Spire. Although the only downside is that there is no pubil outlooks, it's still a nice piece of luxurious art in our city. Thank you Calatrava for your amazing masterpiece! You're my architectural hero!

jade - Monday, October 20th, 2008 @ 4:44pm  

  I just spent 4 days visiting down town Chicago and am amazed at the beauty of this city. Anyone visiting must take the river boat tour which goes directly past the contruction site of the Spire. This city also offers has an endless amount of charm. Just wish I could handle the winters there!

Jeff Walker - Thursday, October 16th, 2008 @ 6:28pm  

  Calatrava,s design innovation always amazes me. He is, perhaps one of the best living modern designer who merges engineering and architecture to the highest form of art - he has successfully closed the gap between. The Chicago Spire truly represents the art of form, light, and lightness. Bravo

sabet - Sunday, October 12th, 2008 @ 5:13am  

  I do like the design of the building, but in the back of my mind I cant help but think it looks like a screw you would put into a piece of wood!

Edward Finn - Sunday, October 5th, 2008 @ 9:22am  

  I am from Milan/iItaly and I come for business 3/4 times per year in Chicago,I think this Bulding will encrease the beauty of this fantastic city.I love Chicago

Bruno Faiella - Friday, September 26th, 2008 @ 6:48am  

  As a new resident in Chicago, it's a wonderful to see the 21st Century begin to come to life on the shore of Lake Michigan. I'm eagerly looking forward to watching construction continue over the years and then celebrate the opening of another monument to the potential of mankind and the realization of a dream.

Ottyr - Thursday, September 18th, 2008 @ 10:37pm  

  Absolutely absurdly large and totally out of place just about anywhere on the planet.And yet, it fits in pretty nicely with what our culture has become. Big, pompous, burly, swaggering, no subtlety, in-your-face.I used to live in Chicago on the North side, a long time ago - too bad it's come to this.

heywally - Saturday, September 13th, 2008 @ 8:56pm  

  I love the spirit of this city and it's will to build great buildings. I am not blown away by this structure , but I like that is 2000 tall. It will certainly compliment the skyline of the greatest city in this nation.

Paul - Tuesday, September 9th, 2008 @ 5:34am  

  Nice looking building. It would be really impressive to take it to a new level- why not make it 3000'- go for it . The builders just have to get the FAA to lift the ban on structures over 2063'-the height of the KVLY TV tower north of Fargo,North Dakota. Just add 50 floors and a spire and we take the record back from the Burj Dubai. Go Chicago,go USA!

Paul Sanderson - Friday, September 5th, 2008 @ 10:37pm  

  This will be great for Chicago to bring in tourists. Plus it is on the north side will the cubs will be winning the world series this year.

werwe - Thursday, August 28th, 2008 @ 12:57pm  

  el edificio es flipante como todos los que alcanzan esas dimensiones. Creo que ya va siendo hora de volver a construir a lo alto como lo estan haciendo en asia. lo malo de todo esto es que a Calatrava se le esta subiendo un poco a la cabeza

fh tres - Thursday, August 28th, 2008 @ 2:13am  

  I live in Chicago and I visit the city often. People seem to think that it will look out of place because they think of Chicago as a smaller version of New York. That's untrue, Chicago is more of a Skyscraper city unlike New York that only has short block styled buildings. It will look great in the city but I hope that they add an observation deck. I don't see how it would hurt unless they think it will disturb the residence.

Brandon - Tuesday, August 19th, 2008 @ 6:51pm  

  Every building in Chicago is special in its own way. They are special by themselves and special all together also. The Chicago Spire is no exception. I think the location is perfect. It will be even more cool-looking from the west. I love the fact that is sits right on the lakefront. There will never be too many buildings in Chicago, unless they are all the same.

Michael - Thursday, August 7th, 2008 @ 4:40pm  

  I just have to say - i can't wait to move to Chicago in October! i love my new home already. That said, there is something about this lovely spire I don't like - 2 things actually. One: It is too tall for the surrounding area. I know they make that argument about every future landmark in every city, but this town has a gorgeous skyline - it doesn't need an exclamation point. Two: what on Earth is the sense of building this shock-value-inducing, talk-of-the-tourists white elephant if there is no possible way for people to see inside? One is reminded of the ivory towers of the super-rich dwarfing the slums, like those places in India where the upwardly mobile live in gated communities mere feet from where the poor starve. Chicago is a beautiful city. Work with it, not against it.

Vicky - Wednesday, August 6th, 2008 @ 6:20pm  

  i was in chicago for 5years and now im in australia.. i really wana go there,,, after the building is finish....

WOW nice building.... - Sunday, August 3rd, 2008 @ 12:26am  

  Yo creo que este edificio monumental es una de las mejores diseños para una ciudad de este stilo, demuestra que a pesar que la ciudad tiene un arqitectura deco conservada, sirve demostrar el inicio, haci al futuro con estilo y belleza. I believe this monumental building is one of the better designs for a city skyline of this type. It demonstrates, despite having a deco and conservative architecture, a move towards the future with style and beauty.

John Riecher - Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 @ 5:40pm  

  Despite the negative comments about the spire I have to agree with all the positive comments most of you have left. There is no dobt in my mind that this city I call home is going to look just as good or better with the addition of this masterpiece by Calatrava. One of his many that is. For all you with not so positive comments just remember its not hurting you in anyway. Besides you arent investing. Obviously! Enjoy the view when the spire is lit up at night or when the sunset reflects off of this beautiful structure.

Nancy - Wednesday, July 30th, 2008 @ 11:42pm  

  Critics of this design and visionary need only look to the Milwaukee Art Museum Addition and realize the dynamic impact it has had both to the art center and the surrounding regions, where several new towers and cultural sites have sprung up, all as a direct result of this one single design. Way to go Chicago ! Bravo Santiago Calatrava !

Jerry Braden - Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 @ 8:42am  

  I can't wait for its completion! it is the perfect landmark to welcome the 2016 olympic games (which chicago deserves). i can't understand why so many people are hatting on this design for being too simple... if its so freakin simple you engineer that. this building is the opening of a new age in skyscraper design which was first done with the hancock and sears. This is a building onto the history of chicago for the next generation and i'm glad chicago didn't back down to all of the pollitical mumbo jumbo. this building stands as a firm figure to the world about a city that is not afraid to make a stand and maybe will lead to the end of chicago's dirty reputation... as an architecture student i can only dream of accoplishing something half as inovative and inspirational as the spire and i wish people would come to respect all it represents

Travis Glascock - Monday, July 28th, 2008 @ 1:27pm  

  As someone who has lived in Chicago for most of his life and grown admiring the skyline as it is, I am always skeptical of new skyscrapers taking up more space in the beautiful landscape that is downtown. My initial reaction was that this structure is awfully phallic looking and a potential eyesore. However, upon further investigation, I find that I like the modernistic design but disagree with its placement in the east loop, where smaller, victorianesque buildings dot the skyline. I feel that it would have fit the skyline better if it would have been closer to the Sears or the Hancock, or at least more towards the middle of the downtown area. Que sera sera.

Joe - Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008 @ 10:30pm  

  the building looks great by itself...but it throws the entire skyline off and doesnt flow with the city at all maybe if it wasnt 150 stories tall it could be both wonderful by itself and as a part of the city.

nick - Thursday, July 17th, 2008 @ 11:35am  

  Approaching Chicago by car, I have always loved the skyline. When flying into (now closed) Meigs field, it was absolutely spectacular. This building will only add to the magnificent skyscape. Kudos to who all who are making this building a reality! I wish I could afford to live there.

Kurt Brink - Monday, July 14th, 2008 @ 3:52pm  

  I love living in my own Chicago, there's much to do. I HATE the politics but the city is absolutely beautiful. The "spire" will only enhance the great city skyline with even more a cosmopolitian flavor and world class prowess. What a city.

Kelvin - Sunday, July 13th, 2008 @ 10:26pm  

  I am aspiring architectural student, and I think that this is just what America needs. To be recognized for something spectacular. I live in Milwaukee and appreciate the Museum addition that Calatrava did here. So, enjoy Chicago, he is a brilliant architect. This is where architecture should be going!

Justin Schumaker - Saturday, July 5th, 2008 @ 10:58am  

  awesome this is how i picture buildings to look in the future. Im currently living in san francisco and their skyline simply does not compare to chicago. Good job calatrava (wish i could afford to live there)

iris - Sunday, June 22nd, 2008 @ 3:02am  

  If the building will be looking as on the pictures it will be just a sensational being.In a very crude way one could say it is looking as a screw nail. Hope the reality convice people not to make this comparison

Little Boy - Friday, June 20th, 2008 @ 6:06am  

  This building is just beautiful. I feel it's time to get out of the ordinary into the extreme. To me it makes a statement that shows I don't want to be like everyone else. And when we're being different, those that are stuck in the same old realm won't see the beauty in something so exquisite.

Antoinette - Saturday, June 14th, 2008 @ 4:10pm  

  A monstrosity on the lake. At least the people who move there won't have to look at it. Is that the appeal?

Jason - Friday, June 13th, 2008 @ 11:30am  

  The building looks nice and sleek on paper and I'm sure it will look nice from afar when built but it looks like a frightening place to live. I would not want to be STUCK on one of the upper floors if there was some type of emergency.

Steve B - Monday, June 9th, 2008 @ 8:11am  

  I was born in Chicago and own a condo in the Lake Point Tower building and i will enjoy waking up to views of this building its a great addition to the Chicago skyline.

Tyler McCrea - Sunday, June 8th, 2008 @ 9:50pm  

  It's a fantastic building. I'm proud to say I was born in València, same as Calatrava and I was lucky to live just opposite to the City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Calatrava. I felt one of the luckiest persons every morning when I saw that incredible arquitecture.

Mila - Saturday, June 7th, 2008 @ 1:50pm  

  All I know is that there is no other skyline in the u.s that comes close to Chicago's proud to say a native Chicagoan

All I know is that there is no other skyline in the u.s that comes close to Chicago's proud to say a native Chicagoan - Thursday, June 5th, 2008 @ 7:24pm  

  I was born and raised in Chicago and all my life, to this very day, adore our skyline. This building is yet another reason why Chicago is the City of the Future. With its elegant design like the wind stretching it to the sky, Chicago will once again prove it is the Windy City!

KrazyRabbit!!! - Thursday, May 29th, 2008 @ 6:30pm  

  Chicago is perhaps one of the most magnificent cities in the world...and this stunning addition, to an already perfect skyline, will be the crown jewel in this amazing Midwestern town. Chicgao, once again, has made all of America proud! Sorry Sears Tower, there is a NEW king in the castle!

chicago2losangeles - Tuesday, May 20th, 2008 @ 11:32pm  

  love Santiago calatrava's ideas. i'm doing a project on him right now. great sculptor/architact.you should check out his works,they are really awesome.

engie hernandez age17 - Tuesday, May 6th, 2008 @ 12:30pm  

  I can’t wait till it’s finished, especially because I live near that area, it’s supposed to be the tallest residential building in the world, and it will surely put the sears to shame. The only problem with it is that the location makes look very odd in the fact that its many, many times taller than any buildings around it.

Hassan - Sunday, May 4th, 2008 @ 1:22pm  

  I love the idea of giving Chicago a new focal point, and bringing some newer designs in rather than the international style dominating our tall buildings. I only wish they would have kept the dreamlike quality of the needle, rather than replacing it with the new phallic looking design.

Chris - Friday, May 2nd, 2008 @ 3:35am  

  Being born and raised in the great city of Chicago i truly can say that the architecture is more than just nice and modern but it does look a bit out of place. location is great but the height is a bit extreme.

sammy - Monday, April 28th, 2008 @ 12:38am  

  Very Good Idea, Very Good Location, Very Good Visionary, I like this whole concept, It's great to see my home town continue to bring new idea's to the forfront! Chicago Rules!!!

Kim Shelton - Sunday, April 27th, 2008 @ 4:26am  

  Athena I have to disagree with you the sears is no where near the center of down town its actually in the south loop.... and the JHC is in the near north area. Looking at the chicago skyline the position of the chicago spire actually brings symmetry to the skyline by having a middle between the two extremes of the sears and the JHC, IMO.

Bob - Wednesday, April 16th, 2008 @ 5:04pm  

  I live in Chicago, and I must admit, this building is beautiful; however i feel the location is wrong. The sears tower seems to be the center of downtown and then to throw this building off to another side throws of that center point which makes the skyline so beautiful. The buildings that are close to the location of this new building are so small that the spire will just look like an odd giant. If it were closer to the sears tower i believe that it would be the most beautiful site in the world!

Athena - Sunday, April 13th, 2008 @ 12:44pm  

  Being originally from Chicago, it will be hard to see the old skyline go. However, this building will add a much needed new modern twist to the skyline that we know and love today. This rocks! Keep adding to our wonderful city!

Melody Jordak - Monday, March 24th, 2008 @ 1:01pm  

  The most beautiful structure on the planet. The work of a genius.

mario peter bird - Thursday, March 20th, 2008 @ 4:22pm  

  If you don't like it, don't look. It appears to be a wonderful addition to a truly wonderful city and country. Just another example of freedom at its best. I love it and hope to see it first hand, some day. I tip my (Dodger) cap to you, Chicago.

John - Monday, March 17th, 2008 @ 2:01am  

  The building itself is a great design. The location is totally wrong. Chicago architecture should not be based on architecture from Asia or the Middle East, it should be its own, just like always. Chicago does need a new futuristic skycraper, but it should continue to enhance the skyline, not dominate it.

Josh - Friday, March 14th, 2008 @ 12:23am  

  Wow this is a great master piece, great thinking and great imagination and more so A GREAT CHALLENGE TO FUTURE ARCHITECTS.I can wait to see it happen.kudos Chicago

WANJAMA KURIA - Wednesday, March 5th, 2008 @ 4:00am  

  Excellent project! Another beautiful building in beautiful City! I like it!

David - Saturday, March 1st, 2008 @ 12:05am  

  I was born in Chitown and claim it as home .I think that as a world class city just a measly 2 hrs drive time and the ability to see it from Michigan is a great accomplishment. My Kinda Town.

Mark Ostruszka - Sunday, February 24th, 2008 @ 1:38pm  

  This is going to be the Crown Jewel to the Chicago Skyline. Several more buildings are on the rise and more are under blueprint development. This magnificent city is not stopping any time soon.

Jose Chavez - Friday, February 22nd, 2008 @ 2:49am  

  I think that this is a cool tower that fits perfect for the windy desine but I think that it being in chicago throws the whole city off balance, it just dosn't look right.

bob franko - Monday, February 18th, 2008 @ 10:09pm  

  Wow! Some of you guys are crazy this building is amazing. I am going to be the future of the US and I believe that this is an amazing work of art. Cudos to the architect, and lets hope that Chicago continues to produce amazing buildings such as this. Amazing! Also, I believe that Frank Sinatro said it right, My kind of town Chicago is... My kind of town.

Sean - Thursday, February 14th, 2008 @ 7:25pm  

  All I can say is wow...I love everything about this city...and nothing will say more to the world that Chicago is a world-class city than this crown-jewel and astonishing accomplishment. I'm even more impressed that this behemoth will be so environmentally friendly. Trump and now this? Chicago's here to stay

Zach - Sunday, February 10th, 2008 @ 10:55pm  

  Truly amazing. I can t wait to see it...thumbs up for the architects.

chris - Saturday, February 2nd, 2008 @ 3:35pm  

  Cant wait to see the accually building going up. Every day I can see work being done. The builing is going to be the most beatufull building in the USA. Love it!!!

Matt - Thursday, January 31st, 2008 @ 11:32pm  

  I do not think it is Calatrava's best, but it will be a beautiful, timely addition to Chicago's skyline. We need more artistic architecture such as this.

John Burzynski - Tuesday, January 22nd, 2008 @ 2:59pm  

  This building will not only change the way the world sees Chicago but it will go down in history as the begining of the modern/futuristic architecture era and what better place than where in past occasions architecture has had great innovation. I understand those who say that the Spire is very different from the architecture or style of every other building but I disagree on that being bad. We live in the 21st century so why are we going to build the same sh!t we built in the 20th? We are in times of great change and the Spire will only show that we aren't staying back in the 20th and that we are leaders in vanguardism. I am from Chicago and damn proud of my city!

Jaime - Monday, January 21st, 2008 @ 8:47pm  

  I'm inclined to see this as a dynamic addition to the Windy City's skyline. Tis beauty to most and, of course, a sore thumb to others. So what's new? One man's folly is another's dream.

Railroadjames - Sunday, January 13th, 2008 @ 10:24pm  

  i think its a nice looking building..i was born and raised in chicago..good to see some new skyscrapers being built...think they accept section 8? hahaha

Dan Ferns - Friday, January 11th, 2008 @ 1:04am  

  wow i have a thing for really big and tall buildings i just love looking up and seeing the heigth of these buildings in chicago ive only been there once but i just love walken down the busy street and you see these giant buildings but the only thing i dont like is the design i think of chicago as being a bold and strong city but this tower it dont have a muscular structure like the hancock or sears and it dont have a sky deck for tourist

tommy - Thursday, January 10th, 2008 @ 11:30pm  

  This constuction looks like a giant drillbit that is screwing Chicago. I live in the neighborhood and this project is absurd. This area was just redeveloped as a residential part of the city with townhomes, mixed rise housing and the riverwalk. How does it make sense to build 130 floors in this area? Is Lakeshore drive not congested enough already? It's not like they are building any additional roads to service this monster. I have no idea how the city approved this project for this site. Horrible! This is not great chicago architecture, it is just ego and greed.

paulius jurgutis - Friday, January 4th, 2008 @ 11:16pm  

  This is truly a beautiful structure that will add so much to Chicago. Chicago was the original skyscraper capitol, and it's nice to see the great city keep its title. As to the comments of it not fitting in with Chicago, well you couldn't be more wrong. It is the start of new eras as well as new architecture to represent the city. As you walk the city you see the different styles of architecture from the different times. In essence, Chicago doesn't have a specific "look," or "theme." The beauty of it is that it is different from all the rest of the buildings, as each building is different from every other building as well.

Shane Rische - Friday, January 4th, 2008 @ 9:43pm  

  There is no place like Chicago. I love This state and I have been to 27 out 50 states. Chicago, you rock!

shawn - Wednesday, January 2nd, 2008 @ 12:04am  

  this building is so incredible. its a master piece. I cant wait until it is built its gonna look like a giant CHristmas tree at night. I cant imagine what it would like when the bears,or the bulls, or the sox or the cubs go into the finals or superbowl or world series iamgine what kind of font or message would b written on this 2000 foot building.

Nicholas Pereira - Saturday, December 22nd, 2007 @ 8:24pm  

  No denying the genius of Santiago Calatrava but this building is too much. How many of these visonaries would live in it? Bigger (or in this case taller) does not mean better. I'm a 4th generation Chicagoan living elsewhere and I feel badly for my hometown.

David P - Thursday, December 20th, 2007 @ 6:05pm  

  It will be sublime! A breathtaking addition to a city that isn't afraid of new heights!

Walter Fox - Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 @ 5:46am  

  Awsome structure, this will definately take the title of being the center of attention in our beautiful international hub of Chicago. Chicago currently has the second most beautiful skyline in the world, IMHO. This 150 story giant will only add to that. Chicago gets more beautiful every year. We have alot to look forward to. Dubai watch out.

Victor Gonzalez - Monday, December 17th, 2007 @ 10:36pm  

  The design is very interesting! Reminds me of numerous spires in Prague, Czech Republic. It will be a beautiful addition to the Chicago skyline and the nearby green space is great! Build up, not out. Cheers!

Josh B. - Monday, December 17th, 2007 @ 7:38pm  

  Super cool , eat your heart out Trump . This is a beautiful building that I would love to live in . This is the kind of beauty that architects havn't had the courage to build in the USA for a long time .

Ray M. Everitt - Sunday, December 16th, 2007 @ 12:21pm  

  I agree with Peter Vargas. It's a nice building and all, but it really doesn't fit in with the rest of the Chicago architecture. It looks about as horrendous as Could Gate and the renovation to soldier field.

Michelle - Saturday, December 15th, 2007 @ 1:34pm  

  This is a beuatiful building i can not wait to see it done' i love Chicago!!

just me - Thursday, December 13th, 2007 @ 10:10pm  

  I love the way this building looks. The spire belongs here in Chicago where the skyscrappers where first started. This will be a beatiuful addition to the skyline!

Justin - Tuesday, December 11th, 2007 @ 2:41pm  

  I prefer the earlier versions with a more tapered top instead of the flat topped present version. Hopefully they will fine-tune that & once it's done it will be even better yet.Or, given the current real estste climate, it could end up a much shorter version of itself. They have already started construction of the foundation, but they can always lower the finished height if they can't sell enough units.

urbaneddie - Sunday, December 9th, 2007 @ 4:17pm  

  in theory, good idea. with chicago having a reputation for its historical landmarks, skyline and the like, not good. its an eye-sore in my city. shame.

christina - Wednesday, December 5th, 2007 @ 2:59pm  

  Tremendous vision. Nice to see someone thinking outside of the box. What an asset to an already magnificent city !

Lynn Poupore - Wednesday, November 28th, 2007 @ 4:38pm  

  This is one awesome building. Can't wait to see it completed. Chicago rules!

JB - Tuesday, November 13th, 2007 @ 1:18pm  

  I give it 5 stars for impact on the skyline ...very impressive height, but it kind of looks like a huge drill bit.

Chris - Friday, November 9th, 2007 @ 9:37pm  

  it will be interesting to see how the "city of the big shoulders" will encompass a building that seems more suitable for the "city of the tall skinny pointy cones." it is a beautiful building nonetheless, though.

K Sanderson - Monday, November 5th, 2007 @ 7:33pm  

  when i think of the skyline of the city i grew up in, i think of the classic balance of the sears tower at one end and the hancock building at the other. plopping this DRILL BIT in the center is an abomination and would only kill it.

liz rudolph - Sunday, November 4th, 2007 @ 2:53pm  

  I am glad and rather proud to have this structure in my 'back yard' however, I wish the spire or "needle" had been kept in the original design. It somehow (now) looks incomplete. Regardless, it is another affirmation of Chicago's long standing history of ground breaking architecture.

Scott - Thursday, November 1st, 2007 @ 12:22pm  

  this is the real global magnificient city.Always friendly open minded.

henk.slagman - Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 @ 12:59pm  

  i think that the Chicago Spire is a great skyscraper with a great architecture. We should be really lucky that it's going to be in our windy city!!!!!

Magda - Monday, October 29th, 2007 @ 8:15pm  

  Since i am a first year student in the western burbs of chicago i find this to be a great inspiration to be different. The chicago spire will never be confsed with any other structure in the world and may just be a major selling point of the 2016 olympics.

Travis from Judson - Monday, October 29th, 2007 @ 4:31pm  

  beautiful structure with a wonderful shape,marvelous architecture.great design for santiago calatrava & congratulation to chicago the homeland of skyscrapers

Mintchy House - Monday, October 29th, 2007 @ 3:39pm  

  Being from NYC and and proud as hell of my skyline, I must say, Chicago is taking the cake with this one.

Frost - Sunday, October 28th, 2007 @ 12:47am  

  I work next door and have opportunity to watch it being built. it is amazing just to know how it will look when it is done.I think that this tower will be like a shining star on a Chicago Skyline.

Katarzyna - Wednesday, October 24th, 2007 @ 3:31pm  

  Having just discovered the wonderful world called Chicago, the spire can only enhance their awesome skyline

Adam Batcheller - Monday, October 22nd, 2007 @ 8:32pm  

  Looks amazing! I wished I lived in it!

Chris - Saturday, October 20th, 2007 @ 4:30pm  

  Absolutely positively a great statement for the city of broad shoulders. Chicago should again reclaim the world's tallest building (i.e. add the spire to the spiral) title, taking it away from Dubai's Burj Dubai. Trump must be furious!

S. Achs - Monday, October 15th, 2007 @ 6:52pm  

  Being a Chicaogan I am very excited and proud to see the city reclaim the title of at least the tallest residential building in the world I think they should just add a spire on top to reclaim the tallest in the world Period...Chicago never seems to stop striving for the best. Long live Mayor Daley!

John P Martin - Saturday, October 13th, 2007 @ 5:17am  

  I love it. I live 2 hours away from chicagho and love the city. I am gald to see the tallest building in North America to be the beatiful lake side city. Chicago is home to modern architecture and birthplace of the skyscrapper. This tower will be a start to a revolution of great modern architecture to come in this great city.

Christian - Wednesday, October 10th, 2007 @ 8:48pm  

  This is the most amazing, beautiful structure I have ever seen in all the world,and I have traveled everywhere.

janet sachs - Wednesday, October 10th, 2007 @ 8:16pm  

  We love Calatrava's Turning Torso building in Sweden and this will be even more grand! Also looking forward to Calatrava's bridge planned in Dallas!

Helene - Sunday, August 26th, 2007 @ 9:12am  

  Yes, Chicagoans like to brag, but so do New Yorkers, or Bostonians. There is nothing wrong with being proud of where you are from or what your city has accomplished.Chicago, a WORLD CLASS CITY, great, awesome, fantastic, superb! That is what we call PRIDE. Pride in what we build, by hardworking people who take pride in what they accomplished, building Skyscrapers, transforming and expanding the Chicago lakefront, making Chicago the city it is today.It�s not Santiago doing Iron Work on the 150th floor, its ordinary men and women. So if Chicagoans like to brag about what ordinary Chicagoans have built, let them brag.That�s called Pride! Nothing wrong Here in this FANTASTIC CITY

JB - Saturday, August 25th, 2007 @ 10:07am  

  Chicago is a world class city, it only gets better, we validate ourselves... This building is a PROUD and very BOLD statement that Chicago is and always will be the "City of Big Shoulders" and the home of some of the most magnificent architecture found in America, not to mention the birthplace of the skyscraper.

Keith - Friday, August 24th, 2007 @ 4:33pm  

  Magnifique. Architectural statement. will this help Chicago win the 2016 Olympics? Paris, Chicago's sister city, will vote 'oui'.

Christian - Monday, August 20th, 2007 @ 10:41pm  

  This is the most oustanding creation among boring residential and commercial buildings (including Donald Trump tower)constracted by the Lake Shore area within last few years . I wish it could be taller but still makes me proud with the country and the city that became to be my home.

Krzysztof - Thursday, August 16th, 2007 @ 1:54am  

  I've been scared that Dubai is getting all the skyscraper glory and am so happy to look at renderings of this building. BEAUTIFUL! I'm a New Yorker, but am so happy to see this go up to 150 stories. The Freedom Tower is great too, but NYC is too timid to build anything this tall. BRAVO!

Jason King - Wednesday, August 15th, 2007 @ 1:35am  

  A breathtaking addition to the Chicago skyline that will further enhance it's claim as the world's most beautiful. Calatrava's genius is manifest in this spire's subtle majesy which perfectly compliments Chicago's architectural, artistic and historic beauty. Bravo to Garrett Kelleher for boldly reaching for the stars... and overseas to astute European investors.For those of you who criticize this design in favor of something more in-line with the architecture that currently exists in Chicago, this building is meant to stand out and break the mold. It is a bold statement that will usher in a new era of architectural and artistic creativity. I am proud and happy to be moving back to Chicago this year!

Steve - Friday, August 10th, 2007 @ 12:41pm  

  I'm just glad that freedom tower in ny won't be the tallest building in the americas!

nn - Thursday, August 9th, 2007 @ 5:51pm  

  I am so proud to be Irish. This is a great building. The design is uplifting and majestic. Good man Garrett Kelleher.

C. C. - Friday, August 3rd, 2007 @ 2:16pm  

  this is the coolest structure I've ever seen.I feel there's no better place to put such an unusual building.

vicky nichols - Thursday, August 2nd, 2007 @ 11:13pm  

  Sorry but this... thing is really ugly !well, the entry is nice, but when you pay over 2 bilions $ I think you can have a beter desing.*sorry for all my mistake, I don't speak well in english

Simon - Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 @ 9:59am  

  Innovative, fantastic, and beautiful. I lived in Chigago when the Prudential Building was built. It was the first high rise building built in Chicago after WWII and was the tallest building in Chicago for a time. There has been an enourmous amount of high rise construction since then. As part of this ongoing process this tower calls for an encore. An even taller building for Chicago that will again be the world's tallest.

RolandBuck - Sunday, July 29th, 2007 @ 10:47pm  

  fantastic tower ! five stars ! I hope they will get the investors to realize it !

j�rg Merten - Monday, July 23rd, 2007 @ 5:17am  

  It's gonna be amazing. I live in Chicago 'n I love this city

Daro - Sunday, July 22nd, 2007 @ 11:15pm  

  The beauty of this structure lies in its subtlety. The fluid twists of the structure makes for a fascinating flow that's not overdone. This is a nice addition that deserves to be showcased on the lakefront.I'd like to make one note about the desire to create another world's tallest building in Chicago (the current one is now being constructed in Dubai). As a Chicago native, I can understand this sentiment. However, I think it's time to move on from this desire. More than anything, Chicago's objective should be to continue creating interesting, original, iconic architecture that will make the skyline even better than it is today.

David Shmuel - Sunday, July 22nd, 2007 @ 5:14pm  

  Calatrava's Spire will make a very nice complement to Bertrand Goldberg's twin Marina City towers (1964), farther in on the same north bank of the Chicago River, which are round and have always seemed straight out of "The Jetsons." Speaking of which, the Spire will also go with the rocketlike, Art Deco Mather Tower (1928) on the south bank, the second building west of the Michigan Avenue Bridge. The mile-long Main Stem of the Chicago River has such an awesome collection of buildings, with the river's modest width affording tremendous views from either bank. Of course, the lengthwise views west from Lake Michigan, with the Spire as a gateway landmark, and east from the far side of the junction of the North & South Branches are terrific. Not to mention the views from down on the river itself!

Peter Nelson - Thursday, July 19th, 2007 @ 1:49am  

  When this building is finished I think the people of Chicago will like it I know I will because I was born and raised in Chicago and I would like my city to get bigger skyscrapers and make our city look better and be recognized

Kordell - Saturday, July 14th, 2007 @ 12:30pm  

  Horrible. The fact that so many people like this building makes me sick. Maybe I will like it better when its done, but for right now I think this building would be an eye sore sitting amongst the classical style buildings that dominate Chicago. This is the wrong city for this building.

Peter Vargas - Friday, July 13th, 2007 @ 7:56pm  

  Awesome architechture and great location choice. Moved to Chicago last year and can't get over how beautiful this city is. The Spire is going to make the skyline even better.

Mike C. - Friday, July 13th, 2007 @ 3:56pm  

  I gave it four stars, not because of it's disign (the design is a five in my opinion), but because I realy think it should be taller! Face it the building is already tall; what's a few hundred more feet to take the record for at least a while (given what is going to be built in the near future in Dubai).

Digital Junkie - Friday, July 13th, 2007 @ 1:01am  

  MAN I LOVE THIS CITY! Just making the worlds greatest skyline even better!

Rob B. - Thursday, July 12th, 2007 @ 2:47am  

  I can't wait for completion of this project. As stated by most people, this will be an amazing addition to the already breath-taking Chicago skyline.Plus, for someone who lives in Chicago [I] it will be great to drive/walk by to watch as construction goes on.

Anthony - Tuesday, July 10th, 2007 @ 4:44pm  

  This gives yet another reason to revisit Chicago.Hope they put an obsevvation deck at the top.

Philip Blow - Tuesday, July 10th, 2007 @ 3:55am  

  I drove by the site this weekend and it is starting to be filled with construction/excavation equipment! Sorry Donald, but it looks like your worst fear is almost ready to begin blocking your views! Of course, your customers will have a great view of someone elses building!

Jerryg - Monday, July 9th, 2007 @ 12:00pm  

   I love this tower, it continues the tradition of fabulous arcitecture in the wonderful city of Chicago. A response to Jimbo: There is a reason why people build tall skinny buildings now a days. It's called lack of space. We can still be creative with these tall buildings though so they don't look like " boxes of crayons." That's what buildings in Chicago try to do with such structures as the Sears Tower, The Handcock, and now the Spire. Panama just needs to be a little more imaginitive thats all.

Matt - Sunday, July 8th, 2007 @ 1:09pm  

  Este pr�dio � incrivel!Tem uma arqueitetura ousada e de alguma maneira me lembra de algo, trazendo, assim, uma sensa��o de ser algo j� conhecido

Diego - Friday, July 6th, 2007 @ 2:04am  

  Responding to the last post. As A Chicagoan, if we built every skyscraper proposal, Chicago would look unorganized, unplanned, COSMETIC. Chicago will always be a place for MODERN, Skyscrapers, and they do a Fantastic Job, linking the past, present and future. Dubai, yes is MODERN, because everything just got built in the last 4 Years. No History there....4 years ago, nothing. Chicago will continue to grow & build, and sometimes even shock you, and I am glad, we dont build every "Skyneedle Proposal" that comes around.

JB - Thursday, July 5th, 2007 @ 9:30am  

  Unique in the world. Imagine the Spire at night, framed by "Big John" and the Sears Tower, as you approach the city. Breathtaking!

Patrick N. - Tuesday, July 3rd, 2007 @ 7:10pm  

  I have lived in Chicago all of my life and i cant wait to see this building finished.

Brandon - Monday, July 2nd, 2007 @ 9:51pm  

  I think we should build this building... However I think we should build it taller so we will once again hold the record for the tallest building in the world! Go CHICAGO!!!

Eric - Monday, July 2nd, 2007 @ 2:51pm  

  Interesante proy�cto donde se demuestra una vez mas la lucha por ostentar la conquistaa del cielo...

JORGE LUIS G�MEZ AGUIRRE - Monday, July 2nd, 2007 @ 12:59pm  

  Although I'm not sure yet how The Spire fits in with the Chicago School aesthetic, ther's no doubt it will add drama and beauty to the worlds best skyline. i miss you wild onion!!!!

R. Adam Peters - Sunday, July 1st, 2007 @ 11:49pm  

  After being amazed by the origional plan then dissapointed by subsequent modifications, I am once again impressed by the "final" design concept. Everytime I'm around streeterville or on the lakefront, my mind can picture the sophisticated cylinder soon to be thrust skyward. Hopefully the spire won't just be in my imagination much longer. Build it already!

Stephen - Sunday, July 1st, 2007 @ 3:45pm  

   Without question this building will let the world know that the Chicago skyline is the most vibrant and most beautiful work of art on the planet ,with the sphire only making it greater. I like the e-mailer who suggested that it would remind people of our Native American people who would routinely hace bond fires that would spiral to the sky as would the sphire. this building should be a tribute to those great people and their ancesters who live here today.

stanley j wozniak - Thursday, June 28th, 2007 @ 11:28pm  

  The Spire is a great idea but it should be designed so that it is the tallest building in the world. Taller than the one in the United Arab Emirates.

Will - Thursday, June 28th, 2007 @ 9:19pm  

  The spire will only add to the most awsome skyline in the world.

Steven - Thursday, June 28th, 2007 @ 2:55pm  

  I think that it is awesome that one of the next tallest buildings in the world is being built in my hometown Chicago. I think that it is a great looking building and I cant wait until it is completed!

Frank - Wednesday, June 27th, 2007 @ 7:05pm  

  an interesting amalgamation of two other buildings (turning torso in malmo and the ghurkin in london)

Mark Mead - Wednesday, June 27th, 2007 @ 8:21am  

  America always pushes the limit. Just one more addition to say we remain undefeated.

Nirav Parikh - Tuesday, June 26th, 2007 @ 7:28pm  

  You yanks are obsessed with height Nice tower though

Ross Piton - Saturday, June 23rd, 2007 @ 5:44pm  

  I love the building i just think it should be taller than the burj dubai in dubai so chicago can once again hold the title fo the tallest building in the world. i say build it, love the design!

gavin - Friday, June 22nd, 2007 @ 2:09pm  

  Calatrava is a genius in art and archetecture. I have been a fan for many years now. I am a bit concerned that the final design is a bit suggestive of ...a...well...no one else seems to want to say it, but I love Chicago and want it to be admired for the remarkable design, not snickered at like adolescent tween-agers seeing something naughty for the first time. It's still awesome.

J C Lennon - Wednesday, June 20th, 2007 @ 2:00am  

  Superbe! I enjoy good design, and with the latest drawing, the Chicago Spire is very good. As sister city to Paris in the US, Chicago will have a beautiful addition for a city with architecture history. Magnifique!

Pierre - Tuesday, June 19th, 2007 @ 9:14pm  

  Loovely..Chicago skyline will be even better.. very nice.. MY KIND OF TOWN!!!!

Fernando Siqueira - Monday, June 18th, 2007 @ 10:38am  

  although chicago may not be "the most beautiful city in the world" i think it has the potential to have the most amazing skyline in at least North America. i guess that was the whole point i was trying to make via all of my posts.

brandon - Sunday, June 10th, 2007 @ 8:39pm  

  Great building, living in Chicago myself I cannot wait to see this building finished.

Cosmo - Friday, June 8th, 2007 @ 2:02pm  

  this will be a wonderful building.Its refreshing to see human creativity. i dream of visiting the city of chicago to see it for myself.

Noah kiptoo - Friday, June 8th, 2007 @ 10:57am  

  wow what a sexy building why cant it be built in toronto lol

daved - Thursday, June 7th, 2007 @ 9:51pm  

  Excellent design. BUILD IT!!! It would be nice to top it off with a spire. Hopefully Chi-Town will recap the title for "Worlds Tallest Building" again. Thank you.

Eman - Thursday, June 7th, 2007 @ 5:45pm  

  Please bring back your original tapered design Mr. Calatrava! The Chicago 'Spire' is to be the United States most majestic structure; an inspiration to architecture enthusiasts; a beacon for the olympic torch!

Steve Noble - Wednesday, June 6th, 2007 @ 1:15pm  

  Wright once said something to the effect that Chicago will be the last great beautiful city in the United States. I believe wholeheartly his vision was correct and I also think he would approve of the Spire.

brandon - Tuesday, June 5th, 2007 @ 9:32pm  

  Once again,Im here to say that I agree with Mr. Matt Witt. The building is awesome, but it is incomplete and missing something without the spire. Before it is too late, they should keep the current design and height, and add a beautiful spire to it. Then it will be a complete masterpiece.

Damion Black - Monday, June 4th, 2007 @ 2:09pm  

  Looks amazing but something has to be done about the top 1/3 portion of the building in the previews version looked more pure and graceful

Dorin Chudin - Thursday, May 31st, 2007 @ 5:48pm  

  Overall, this is a beautiful structure and will be a great addition to one of America's most captivating skylines. However, I am very disappointed that it will not be built to the original vision. Even though the changes to the top of the spire are subtle, it results in a stunted, less dramatic and certainly less regal appearance than the original concept.

Matt Witt - Tuesday, May 29th, 2007 @ 11:39am  

  Somebody said it was a work of art.A tube with a twist in it is a work of art? I don't get it. It's lame. It's bacause it's such a terribly small piece of land to work with. This limits the creation of something worthwhile.

freddy - Monday, May 28th, 2007 @ 11:41pm  

  I love this project, his beauty, his structure and his location in the city. This building sharpens the chicagoan skyline. I think that it contributes to order the urban volumes (Sears Tower, Eon Tower and John Hancock Center) since the center of the Down Town. Calatrava�s language has been exhausted in bridges and public spaces; now, he finds new opportunities in the skyscrapers.

Emilio - Saturday, May 26th, 2007 @ 4:55pm  

  I especially plan to make a trip to the windy city just to see this building in 2010. Also to see the Trump Tower, of course, and the Sears Tower...... Okay so pretty much just see Chicago. I've always wanted to go, because Ohio stinks, I will finally come to see this spectacular piece of art in the most beautiful city in the world.

Jordan Wright - Tuesday, May 22nd, 2007 @ 6:05am  

  A Second City masterpiece, amazing and incredible.

brandon - Monday, May 21st, 2007 @ 6:37pm  

  This building belongs here. And to Eric Osbourne, who says it belongs in London or France, I do believe you are wrong. To call Chicagos Skyline boring is being either misinformed or Jealous. Come to Chicago and see for yourself. Besides, Paris doesn't allow taller buildings that the Eiffel Tower since a law passed in 1971 said so. Parisians hate skyscrapers but love cities like New York. Go figure.

Vic - Monday, May 21st, 2007 @ 2:51pm  

  The Chicago Spire an example of what makes Chicago the greatest city in world. A skyline filled with the spirit of our city Innovation, Imagination and Determination.

Bonnie K Brennan Properties - Monday, May 21st, 2007 @ 3:23am  

  Inspiring design, cutting edge engineering. Choice of city and keen sense of neighborhood development also very good.

Vikas Ahuja - Thursday, May 17th, 2007 @ 6:02pm  

  No other city like Chicago, I love Chicago and the beautifull lakefront, I used to live in this Town and I hope to be there when the building is ready

Alejandro Moreira - Thursday, May 17th, 2007 @ 2:38pm  

  what a great idea for the city of chicago i cant wait to see the finishing product

corvallis criss - Thursday, May 17th, 2007 @ 8:57am  

  Very cool looking building (The Spire) and I'm looking forward to seeing it's progress as it reaches for the stars. I would like to add though that I think developers should try to not only build tall skinny buildings as they have been doing for the past 5 years now, but mix it up a little bit with some 50-60 floor wider based buildings too. Tall skinny towers are nice, but if there are too many of them they will just blend one right into the next; for example Panama City has this situation now. Panama City basically looks like a big box of crayons pointing up in the air and actually is rather boring to look at. So, even though the cereal box metality of the 1960's and 70's seems rather boring to architecture enthusists around the world, if boxy buildings are mixed in properly with the surrounding skyline, then those buildings if nicley colored can be appealing to look at too and really mix up the skyline to make it more exciting.

Jimbo - Wednesday, May 16th, 2007 @ 10:26am  

  In the 1880's the world's first skycraper was build here in Chicago, I can't wait for that era to come back to this wonderful city. I always bet for innovation and Chicago has a rich history of that, I have no doubt that Calatrava was the best choice to keep Chicago's remarkable architectural heritage. As always said, Chicago's skyline should be always on top of every other city's skyline as the beginning.

Victor Fernando Tovar - Wednesday, May 16th, 2007 @ 3:02am  

  Very nice building. Look like a gigantic drill-bit.

Zoolii - Tuesday, May 15th, 2007 @ 9:53am  

  Excellent, that begins promptly the construction to be able to see since we go on from the paper to the reality

Fabian Caro - Monday, May 14th, 2007 @ 12:38pm  

  Esplendido proyecto felicito a la ciudad por haberlo aprobado. Enhorabuena

Aureliano Garcia - Sunday, May 13th, 2007 @ 5:17pm  

  I think that once seen by those who have not given the city a second thought will be quite surprized at the grandeur of not just the spire but the city as a whole a truly great city and one that deserves to hold the 2016 oylmpics

brandon - Sunday, May 13th, 2007 @ 4:58pm  

  Breathtaking! Being from Dallas, TX. I've seen the birth of a lot of highrise buildings, nothing as dynamic as the "Spire." Trump is a blowhard & I question whether his NY following will bail him out on his Chicago Bldg. He best stay in NY. My advice to Don "better thought a fool than open mouth & removes doubts!"

J. Wesley - Sunday, May 13th, 2007 @ 10:09am  

  chicago is a design catalogue of the most importants buildings.frank lloyd right,mies van der rohe ...amd all of our teachers...

arquialvarez - Saturday, May 12th, 2007 @ 6:05pm  

  That was Hemingway and he was talking about Oak Park, IL. and the quote was "wide yards and narrow minds." Chicago does not have wide lanes? and I dont get the context. Building seems pretty amazing. The 7 points seems a little disconcerting as it lacks semitry. But I think its that edge that really makes it unconsciencely intriguing.I thought the nine petals of the Lotus temple in Delhi fit well. I think 7 points of this tower will create just the right amount of disemitry as would the right amount dissonance in a symphony. Conflict and harmony.

lowell - Saturday, May 12th, 2007 @ 2:20pm  

  Ho visitato Chicago nel settembre 2006.E' una citta' meravigliosa ed il Chicago Spire la rendera' ancora piu' bella. God bless America

Carlo Rampelli - Saturday, May 12th, 2007 @ 1:38pm  

  Wright was probably right when he proclaimed chicago city of wide lanes and narrow minds

brandon - Friday, May 11th, 2007 @ 10:49pm  

  sera increible cuando visite nuevamente Chicago ver la nueva torre. Estoy esperando

Francisco Villegas - Friday, May 11th, 2007 @ 8:03am  

  Nice building, but I think all the Calatrava's projects are very similars. The constant use of white color becomes boring. In my opinion, Moneo is the best. You have to visite the Prado Musseum remodelation, it is great!!

Fran - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 6:39pm  

  another pearl for chicago city " bravo "

juanjo barcel� - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 5:39pm  

  amazing!.... the star wars empire is coming hehe I love how tall will be... and how Icon will be in the olympics of the 2016

Rodrigo - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 5:25pm  

  Beautiful building! I am also curious about what those lake winds will do when they hit the tower. Tornado generator? ;-)

Jos� - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 4:50pm  

  My Kind of DownTown. I Love it. What other city can take this beautiful tower? Sears.... I will be loving you.

Alejandro Rivera - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 2:27pm  

  What an "Amazing" pioneering building, in architecture it's a masterpiece!I can't wait to see it or even better live in it.

Mark Hamilton-Smith - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 8:29am  

  Great !!! Good choice, Calatrava it's the new Miguel Angelo of our time, Incredible building !!!

Fernando Sanchez - Thursday, May 10th, 2007 @ 6:59am  

  I think the Chicago Spire displays a current trend, an architectural boom that�s going to transform the City of Chicago. Chicago is the birth place of skyscrapers; each building represents a timeline of architecture, from Frank Lloyd Wright�s early influences and visions such as (The Illinois a mile high skyscraper) a stunning resemblance to The Burj Dubai in Dubai. All the way to the �Skin & Bones, BLOCKY� Philosophy of Ludwig Mies van der RoheWhat the last reader stated �Boring & Blocky Chicago Skyline� different architectural eras, Now Santiago Calatravas introduces a �New Era of Architecture to hit Chicago�I couldn�t think of any better place than Chicago for this building, isn�t his inspiration & design of this building, Native Americans, arriving at the lake making a fire�.. a column of smoke rising above Lake Michigan's shoreline.

JB - Wednesday, May 9th, 2007 @ 12:15pm  

  defenitly calatrava heard my mind!!!!! (I was thinking about see the first proposed tallest than 400m) its great!!! I know chicago and has a magnificent view!.. I thing with this would be the famous and most beutiful skyline in america and also the world!!(Dubai wont do it.. America built for art..Asia just copy and do it for a record hehe) ... congrats!! Im waiting to see this calavantra's creation! = )

Rodrigo - Tuesday, May 8th, 2007 @ 10:51pm  

  A thrilling building for an exciting city that understands architecture.

Marie - Tuesday, May 8th, 2007 @ 8:26pm  

  I think the Chicago spire will be the center piece of the skyline and hopefully the inspiration to future generations of architechs. I also hope that it could play a role in bringing the olympics to the city. I think it would be a great inspiration to all chicago residents and the atheletes a well.

brandon - Tuesday, May 8th, 2007 @ 1:53am  

  This looks to be an amazing building, and I'm in full support. With Chicago's architectural heritage, this is the perfect place to build it. To the guy who said build it in London or Paris...I think that was just an anti-American jab. Paris? Right, because you know how much Parisians love Tour Montparnasse, not. Skyscrapers are not really appreciated in Paris, and London only recently starting allowing skyscrapers in the city.

Christopher Macsurak - Monday, May 7th, 2007 @ 10:50am  

  This latest design surpasses the previous. It appears more sophisticated as a whole building with its taper to the top losing the aggressive jab at the sky or blunted "Twizzler" end of previous renderings. This will be a handsome addition to the Chicago skyline. Donny Trump is eating his heart out since he acquiesced to quivers of the terrorism fear mongers at the time and decided to replace one of the better, earlier designs of his namesake building with the overpriced sky scraping trailer park on the river. (Side show mentality fosters bad haircuts and accumulation of lots of snazzy gold-plated objects but the illustrations of the Spire, as viewed from the lake, could have included his building in the background -unless the convention is only include completed buildings at the time of rendering.) It is unfortunate that the site for the Chicago Spire isn�t more city-centered to anchor the skyline of other tall buildings rather than compete on the edge. The concern of increased traffic of tourists and sightseers overwhelming the area residents is probably overblown since it is in such close proximity to Navy Pier and a very easy, pleasant walk. (The city somehow accommodates visitors to the Sears and Hancock Towers - both in more densely packed areas.) One can argue the Spire has an artistic sculptural appeal standing on its own. It's the building's attribute as art that gives it a pass on failing to include more obvious environmentally protective elements - if in fact this was fully addressed by Calatrava and the team at Perkins and Will. This country is still erecting thousands upon thousands of much more mundanely "designed" houses and buildings with meager effort or thought as to their environmental impact. It would be an incredible achievement if this icon of architecture could also stand as an icon for environmental protection and still be winning hearts into the future.

Tom Beal - Sunday, May 6th, 2007 @ 9:59am  

  A stunning work of art. However such a stunning building would look out of place in a city like chicago with its tall boring square building. A building this pleasing to the eye simply belongs in London or Paris.

Eric Osborne - Saturday, May 5th, 2007 @ 2:48pm  

  Qu� pasada! I love it. I think it will add glamour to the magnificent Chicago skyline. As an architect I can only say GO FOR IT CALATRAVA!!!!I think this tower will complete the city�s fame for pioneering in architecture. If a man can dream, others will follow.

Lola R. - Friday, May 4th, 2007 @ 5:04pm  

  i think the building is amazing nice look and everyting and to hal chaffee and the more dicriptive "spiral spire" name spire means spiral "the spiral spiral" does not catch the intellegent mind

mike - Thursday, May 3rd, 2007 @ 6:48pm  

  The latest rendering is very unappealing, the previous renderings are much better. I do not like the new blunted top of the building(as shown in the March 2007 rendering). Why removed the previous pointed top that added a lot of architectural appeal? It now looks like a twisted Washington Monument with a dulled top.

Matt - Wednesday, May 2nd, 2007 @ 2:06pm  

  looks like Bejing was drilling for oil and they got through to the other side of the world and hit Chicago's lakefront

mesohawny - Wednesday, May 2nd, 2007 @ 12:11pm  

  I love it, and can't wait to be able to go up to the top of it (Spire)! It is so exciting to see the long time boring city of Chicago changing for the better. There are so many buildings being built downtown now and on the south Loop that it seems to look different to me everyday. Keep up the good work Daley!!! Chicago has never looked so good.

Jimbo - Tuesday, May 1st, 2007 @ 1:46pm  

  I admire the Chicago Spire but I think a more descriptive name is The Spiral Spire!

Hal Chaffee - Tuesday, May 1st, 2007 @ 11:21am  

  As a Chicagoan I can't wait for this to get built. My parents saw the Sears, Hancock, and Standard/Amoco/Aon go up and while the skylines changed in my life, never anything as amazing as this. Combine it with Trump and all the other new stuff going up downtown and the brand new South Loop and this could be the most exciting time to ever live in Chicago. And then in 2016 when the Olympics come to town...

Ben - Tuesday, May 1st, 2007 @ 1:00am  

  Oh wow, hurry up and build this thing already! Stunning!

Anthony Perez - Monday, April 30th, 2007 @ 2:00pm  

  This is a great addition and though it will raise traffic it will make this great city even greater.

Jacob - Monday, April 30th, 2007 @ 10:53am  

  Amazing building in an amazing city! Will match very well in the Chicago skyline plus is inspired in the the columns of the Llotja in Valencia. So a little bit from here in there. Looking forward to see it finished. Salutacions des de Barcelona!

Enric - Monday, April 30th, 2007 @ 7:36am  

  Finally! A place to restore the old Lindberg Beacon! I wonder how far you could beam a light from this height? From afar it would look like a twinkeling star!! BRAVO

George J Fedorko - Sunday, April 29th, 2007 @ 7:23pm  

  This is one of the most impressive and beautiful building ever designed. I never been to Chicago but now I plan to come just to see the beautiful skyline

DONALD DICKS - Saturday, April 28th, 2007 @ 2:41pm  

  Me parece magnifica la torre, en espiral, hacia el cielo. Calatrava es un genio.

jose luis - Saturday, April 28th, 2007 @ 8:30am  

  Kind of bad looking but better than another boring square building.

William Hopkins - Friday, April 27th, 2007 @ 10:08pm  

  great building for the chicago skyline it balance the skyline. the desigh is not inovative, the building;twisting torso in malmo started this trend.I hope that they make at least a spire towards the top not a flat roof, then Chicago will be known as the city with the largest drill bit in the world

Wilbert NYC - Friday, April 27th, 2007 @ 3:38am  

  What's up with this? Mayor Daley talks about making Chicago the world's 'greenest' city, but I see no wind energy devices or photovoltaics or solar thermal. New York City seems to have totally missed the opportunity to do a 'Manhattan Project' for renewable energy with the WTC site replacement (which makes the new structures more, not less, of a future target), and now Chicago misses the opportunity. Chicago attacts Boeing, but can't engage Boeing's talents to capture atmospheric power at skyscraper's heights. There are thousands of tall buildings world-wide, many of which could be retrofitted to capture atmospheric flow - a huge market. But this spire, like all but a few proposed, misses the imperative of fully utilizing what can be done with tall structures. Another grotesque failure, another pretty Calatrava that shortchanges structures' potential to produce energy. Scratch my star - this deserves a negative as an energy 'sinkhole'.

Gregory Francis Bird - Thursday, April 26th, 2007 @ 6:14pm  

  The Spire IS a spire. There's no need for another spire on top. There is a certain dryness in the renderings that does not capture what will be breathtaking in real life. This isn't a building. It's a sculpture in which people will live. This will be our Eiffel Tower.

Chris - Thursday, April 26th, 2007 @ 2:12pm  

   This skyscraper will do nothing but add to Chicago's already sterling reputation as an architectural leader. With completion scheduled in 2010, this will give the 2016 Olympics bid a big shot in the arm. I'm really looking forward to the groundbreaking, and seeing this piece of history rise from the ground up.

Louis - Thursday, April 26th, 2007 @ 10:37am  

  yes yes for the spire !!!

Jimmy Ramirez - Wednesday, April 25th, 2007 @ 9:39pm  

  This will definatly put Chicago on the International map.

James Brome - Tuesday, April 24th, 2007 @ 4:27pm  

  I spent most beautiful moments of my life in Chicago. I love Chicago skyline. Salutes from Istanbul - TURKEY

Mehmet Unver - Tuesday, April 24th, 2007 @ 3:40pm  

  CHICAGO - Spire redesign...Great......i am proud to live in AMERICA.GOD BLESS AMERICA.

Ashly Varughese - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 3:16pm  

  I am currently living in florida and will be moving back to Chicago soon.This design is great and I think it will make a great addition to the city of Chicago

craig - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 1:52pm  

  The Turning Torso in Malmo is great, but the Chicago Spire will be greatest. Calatrava make the diference and surprise us again and again.

Carlos - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 1:26pm  

  This doesn't appear to be one of Calatrava's more creative moments. The building's design is derivative and falls into the current skyscraper trend toward curving, twisting, figurative references. In a similar vein is Sir Norman Foster's glass addition to the London skyline with the Swiss Re Tower, (nicknamed "The Gherkin").

Jeff Martin - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 12:45pm  

  couple of days before i saw the new design of spire.150 stories.... amazing....The Proud of America.God Bless America.

Ashly Varughese - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 10:55am  

  Looks like what you see on the backside of a fence when the screw has missed the mark. Another monument to the developer and the architect, but not much for the people living in it. Proves once again that just because you can, doesn't mean that you should. Is this really what Chicago needs? and are there really that many people (with money) who want to live that high in the air in this age of terrorism? Structurally, is probably a masterpiece, and financially, we'll see (I heard costs of up to $2.4 billion). Also, looks like if a developer pays off the city with enough money to fund a park, they can do what they want.

Ron - Monday, April 23rd, 2007 @ 8:48am  

  Chicago needs another amazing building for the city and for the Olimpics.

Adam - Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 @ 8:27pm  

  What a beautiful addition to the Chicago skyline. Congratulations Chicago.

George - Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 @ 7:26pm  

  I like the shape and it will complement the Lake Shore. It kind of reminds me of a twizler licorice stick except in silver. It is an elegant design as well as a smart solution to the harsh blasts of air that come off Lake Michigan onto the Windy City.

Steve - Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 @ 3:53pm  

  This is fabulous! 2016 Olympic games and development like this will make Chicago top world destination! Go for it!

Vic - Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 @ 2:19pm  

  Every thing is nice, but the Chicago spire shouldn't be named the Chicago spire without an actual spire. Let's keep the design, get rid of the 2000ft. height limit, and add a beautiful spire on top of it to cap it off. The spire should be able to change colors at night and shoot a narrow beam of light straight in the air so it can be seen from miles. That would give this building, the lakefront, and the city chicago of chicago an unbelievable excitement and atmosphere. Things like this only comes around every so often. Since the olympics are coming, there is no better way to showcase out awesome city by putting our best foot first. So let's get this one right and put a spire on top of the final design.

Damion - Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 @ 11:09am  

  When I saw this building on the news this morning I was blown away! This is truly a remarkable and unique structure. It really does remind you of a drill bit and I hope it does get built.A perfect building for the city of Chicago.

Alexander - Saturday, April 21st, 2007 @ 5:08pm  

  I am so excited about this amazing building for Chicago which is an amazing city in my opinion. I lived there for 3 years and moved to New York and I will be returning there in 1 year. Hopefully I can live here or at least sell some of the beautiful residences that the Spire will offer. This will enhance the already and best city skyline.

Gregory - Saturday, April 21st, 2007 @ 4:30pm  

  Well I live in Chicago its a great city. This will really help the skyline and growth of Chicago.

James Frazier - Saturday, April 21st, 2007 @ 3:37pm  

  Having once worked in Chicago for the firm founded by William LeBaron Jenny, the father of the skyscaper, I think it is only fitting that Chicago continue to be the home of exciting, innovative and masterly constructed architecture.

Joe Rescignano - Saturday, April 21st, 2007 @ 10:48am  

  I wonder if people had the same complaints about a building. like the Sears tower, or even the World Trade Towers when they were first built...Had they been heeded.. we would still be living in sod houses.. I think the building will be a striking addition to the sky line...and more aesthetic than the "Freedom" tower.. .I look forward to seeing it grace the shore of Lake Michigan....

xBoomerx - Saturday, April 21st, 2007 @ 12:40am  

  it looks like an icicle

andy - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 11:00pm  

  the best architecture i have ever scene in my life.....I hope the plan would be successful....best wishes to all those involved in the project

rajesh chowdary - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 7:55pm  

  This building brings Chicago to the fore front of Architecture. I am from Brazil and Ihope I can visit or even live there one day.

Carlos Bemfica - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 4:57pm  

  The building will be tall, but it's footprint is actually quite small. I believe Calatrava's design will usher in a new era of architectural design not just in Chicago, but everywhere. It's immense and gracefully delicate at the same time. I live right down the block from the proposed site, and I am all for it. Perhaps it will force the sad honkytonk that Navy Pier has become to somehow improve. Chicago has always been an architectural smorgasboard, and not only will this structure fit in, it will be one of it's centerpieces (if not "the" centerpiece). Let's get going!!!

Ted S. - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 3:36pm  

  Beautiful building. Chicago is the perfect place for it!

shaun - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 3:24pm  

  ole, ole y ole! great building in a great city!

vicky - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 3:15pm  

  Great addition to a gem of a city! Can't wait to see it built. It's about time we built a new sky scraper to compete with the ever impressive Far Orient skylines. Chicago on the GO! Peace to all..

Al Mahdi - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 3:00pm  

  Incredible building designed by an a great spanish architect

Ledus - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 2:38pm  

  A spiral? C'mon now Santiago, try harder you already did a nicer one with turning torso. And the building is almost as phallic as the Gherkin. i I don't mind tall buildings but a spiral is such a one-liner and he's capable of much more.

Andrew - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 2:18pm  

  wonderful. just what we need. another high-profile target. but, whatever mayor daley wants, he gets, regardless of the cost.

jake ripley - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 1:13pm  

  I am not sure about the present version, I must say I did like previous versions (2006) better (though only one of the many so far presented). What is with the bridge over the river? It looks cool, but is it a draw bridge? Or is it just something to distract people right now from the tower itself & will never be built.

urbaneddie - Friday, April 20th, 2007 @ 12:43pm  

  This is not the structure that the lakefront needs - it is the antithesis of what the lakefront is. 1. We don't need the tallest building in the world here. The former tallest buildings in the US no longer exist because they became targets. We need no such target here. 2. The design does not clearly indicate aerodynamics and/or sturdiness under windy conditions, which exist at that point of the lakeshore on a daily basis, and can be very strong. 3. A shorter version, half the height, might work. But as it stands now, it stands ready to Screw Chicago from the get-go.

Sue Klaus - Thursday, April 19th, 2007 @ 5:06pm  

  It doen't fit the Chicago Skyline. It's very similar to the monstrosity that is Soldier Field whereas this new age design is smashed on top of a charming classic structure. Once this building is up, its going to look as though two huge UFO's landed in Chicago.

LD - Wednesday, April 18th, 2007 @ 12:31pm  

  I think this building is going to look wonderful along the Chicago skyline. The architecture of this building is absolutly amazing and so different then the normal boxes we keep seeing today. I hope I can visit or even live there one day.

Michelle - Tuesday, April 17th, 2007 @ 11:25pm  

  When I first saw this building I couldn't beleive my eyes, I am now really excited for this building to be built and I think it would work PERFECTLY in the UNIQUE Chicago skyline.

Patrick - Monday, April 16th, 2007 @ 6:24pm  

  It is amazingly beautiful. I am impressed and I wish I participated in the construction process of such a building as a civil engineer. It will definitely be a masterpiece and source of inspiration.

Salih - Tuesday, April 10th, 2007 @ 6:25pm  

  the chicago spire is what chicago needs. we are the birthplace of skyscrapers and we need to be back on top by improving our already perfect skyline

pat s - Tuesday, April 3rd, 2007 @ 9:56pm  

  Magnifico! What a beautiful is this building! Chicago is an amazing US city, I was very surprise when I visit it last year!

Enzo - Tuesday, April 3rd, 2007 @ 6:03pm  

  Hopefully this can put architecture in the right direction. Modernism Architecture is the majority make up of Chicago, but it is architecture with no soul. The machine has destroyed a profession that was seen as the ultimate form of art. Architecture needs to adapt the old tradition of making spiritual inducing space, and stop with this assembly line process of popping out boxes. People like Calatrava are trying to change the world for the better, whether people want to believe it or not. This is what Chicago, America, the World needs.

Andre Van Belkom - Saturday, March 31st, 2007 @ 8:28pm  

  After being dissapointed with some of the later design changes, I am re-excited with Calvatrava's most recent "final" design. I'm tired of hearing about it, I want to see it! I also like Calvatrava's idea of the park with the ped. bridge. Is the rising bridge feasable? Because I love it. Chicago is building itself to levels of beauty with projects such as this, Trump's, block 37, and others. I hope we get to invite the whole world to come see the new, awe inspiring face of Chicago in 2016.

Stephen - Saturday, March 31st, 2007 @ 12:08pm  

  As I always say, Chicago, a city so rich in architectural heritage. No doubt this masterpiece from Calatrava will beutify our Chicago's skyline, which always should be just right beneath heaven. I bet you all!!! After it'll be done, we are all going to be enjoying this new jewel at our beutiful city of Chicago.

Victor Fernando Tovar - Saturday, March 31st, 2007 @ 12:09am  

  wow

jonesteel - Friday, March 30th, 2007 @ 10:19pm  

  Let's not delay this project. Be INSPIRED- find a way to work out the details, resolve the problems, and MOVE FORWARD. Give us & the world something amazing and build our Chicago Spire.

Bonnie K Brennan Properties- bonnieb kw - Wednesday, March 28th, 2007 @ 6:25am  

  The latest iteration of this thing is truly amazing -- he's curled each floor so that it curls out before reaching the edge... truly stunning and even complex -- like a living organsm. And it's anchored to the ground, unlike most of the hideous boxes that have gone up in Streeterville this past decade. Bravo!!!!

Steve Zwick - Tuesday, March 27th, 2007 @ 3:09pm  

  I like the design, it is not just another box on a grid. I think it will not only add to, but may become the focal point of, the already beautiful Chicago skyline.

James Prince - Tuesday, March 27th, 2007 @ 9:40am  

  I can't wait for ground breaking to start. Hurry up Garrett and BUILD our CHICAGO SPIRE!!

Bonnie K. Brennan Properties-bonnieb - Monday, March 19th, 2007 @ 12:53am  

  I think that this a building amazing in Chicago or any another place of the world.

Fernando F. Saiz - Sunday, March 18th, 2007 @ 12:12pm  

  great design....BAD LOCATION. not enough land surrounding this monolith monument.

bette - Thursday, March 15th, 2007 @ 1:52pm  

  excellent project i would love to see it in reality only time will tell??

Eliyas - Thursday, March 15th, 2007 @ 10:45am  

  I gave the spire 5 stars at first, but without the spire,its has no essence,no style, no meaning...Its dry...and i think the spire should come back!!! chicago is know for thier wonderful anttenas,and spires

Jason Steward - Thursday, March 8th, 2007 @ 7:06pm  

  this is a great structure for the city i don't like the idea of it being all hotel an condo because there is a lot of those in the down town area already with the up coming trump tower and intercontental tower along with others but other then that i belieave chicago needs tall tower such as this one because other cities are upgradeing why not us not to mention that it is beautiful to look at this is just the start of a new skyline for this city and im befind it 100 percent good luck i can't wait till the construction beginns

Brian - Thursday, March 1st, 2007 @ 3:41pm  

  I really want this building to be built. It would be a great addition to our beautiful skyline. I hope I can live there.

Gennesis - Thursday, March 1st, 2007 @ 12:24pm  

  This is an innovative architectural step forward for the Chicago. An incredible additon to our skyline. It will be an immediate icon for tourists and Chicagoans alike. Hope it happens.

Terry - Sunday, February 11th, 2007 @ 12:04am  

  this building should be build.it has a great design.

Chi - Thursday, February 8th, 2007 @ 7:43pm  

  Great Project!Absolutely what you would expect from one of the best architects in the world. Cannot wait to see it out there.

Hugo - Thursday, February 8th, 2007 @ 7:19pm  

  How incredible it would be to live next door and be able look out and see the SPIRE every day!

Theresa - Wednesday, February 7th, 2007 @ 11:38pm  

  Well, the old design isnt coming back. Calatrava and the developer nixed the spire from the plans and it sounds like it may be a permanent move. Im not understanding the need for a spire by some anyway. And the roof height is 2,000ft. This redesign is beautiful and if executed right will be one of the most beautiful structures in the world.

Dj - Sunday, February 4th, 2007 @ 12:30pm  

  Great building in a great city, I can't wait for this building to be complete!

John - Saturday, February 3rd, 2007 @ 10:41pm  

  In order for this piece of not so interesting skinny twisty twister to look great, the old design should come back with the attena and have its roof 2000ft not the roof 1550ft or something.i will regain excitment if its old design came back

ryan - Saturday, February 3rd, 2007 @ 2:39pm  

  Revolutionary! A refinement for Chicago.

Stevens - Wednesday, January 31st, 2007 @ 5:49pm  

  i never seen the tallest building like this with an amazing infrastructure.this will realy boost the tourism of chicago.

varun - Wednesday, January 31st, 2007 @ 2:39am  

  I can't wait to see this building completed! I'm glad to see Chicago staying in the race for tallest.

Proctor - Tuesday, January 23rd, 2007 @ 4:05pm  

  Fantastic development, brings Chicago back to the forefront of Architecture. This type of innovation will be another bonus in the eyes of the International Olympic Committee when it decides on Chicago as the host of the 2016 Olympics.

Jay - Monday, January 22nd, 2007 @ 3:45pm  

  I was born in Chicago and raised in the West Suburbs. I believe that this beautiful building will be a great vaddsition to Chicaog's already famous skyline.

Frank Sherman - Saturday, January 20th, 2007 @ 2:45pm  

  It's wicked awesome! Keep up the good work Chicago! Make America proud!. Show them that we're not scared of anyone!

Matt - Saturday, January 20th, 2007 @ 12:11am  

  To call this project a mistake would be backward thinking. A building like this is a wave to the future, making Chicago the leader and front-runner in daring and innovative architecture. Plus with a growing world, new designs are a must in keeping cities like Chicago at the pinnacle of greatness. A design like this will give Chicago yet another reason to boast of its beauty and sophistication.

Lawton Stefanik - Friday, January 19th, 2007 @ 2:45pm  

  I am so excited by this forward thinking design. Ten of the worlds most recently constructed, cutting edge buildings and bridges have been constructed outside the United States. This project is a long awaited leap forward.

Ian Hall - Friday, January 19th, 2007 @ 12:17pm  

  If I could rate this "structure" less than 0, I would. What a mistake. How can an architect be so stupid. Lets ruin the famous chicago skyline with this spiral thing in the middle of much smaller, totally different looking buildings. There is nothing about this structure that fits in with the surroundings. Kind of like putting a greek temple in the middle of Tokyo... What a shame for Chicago. I feel bad for all that will have to stare at this thing. Good luck.

Pete - Tuesday, January 16th, 2007 @ 3:51am  

  It's a very nice tower ! Great project. Good luck!

Milos - Sunday, January 14th, 2007 @ 9:01pm  

  As a person from Chicago I will tell you it is going to ruin a beautiful skyline. It is ugly and looks like a drill bit. I hope that it doesn't get built in our wonderful city

Chris - Thursday, January 11th, 2007 @ 11:05am  

  (first posting bonnieb-keller williams river north).. I've already had people ask how long it'll be to get on the Spire waiting list for a unit. So let's get started ASAP and BUILD !!

BONNIE KATHLEEN (bonnieb) KW- River North - Tuesday, January 9th, 2007 @ 5:48am  

  So far it looks like an elegant building designed by an architect extraordinaire. It should light up the Chi skyline and will complement the Sears and Hancock. See you at the top.mkl

Mike Lall - Tuesday, January 9th, 2007 @ 4:44am  

  THANK YOU GARRETT for getting this back on track, and with the CORRECT NAME "CHICAGO SPIRE" is what it should have been called from the start. Chicago's the greatest city in the world. Our beautiful skyline will sparkle even brighter now thanks to you. So "spiral up" and start building !!

BONNIE KATHLEEN KW- River North - Monday, January 8th, 2007 @ 5:02am  

  The new Spires unfurling design nicely symbolizes the unraveling of the whole aesthetic direction of the project. It reeks of compromise. Due to its massive scale it could irreparably SCREW UP the Chicago skyline! The bold yet elegant, (and contextually mindful) Trump tower will all but vanish from the skyline due to its close latitudinal proximity to the overpowering new Spire. Go back to the graceful original design, go back to the drawing board - or go someplace other than Chicago!!

Matt - Monday, January 8th, 2007 @ 4:14am  

  really interesting that those who are so in awe of this impending folly have not expressed a desire to live in it.shelbourne is proposing 160 floors and 1300 condo units.remember that this is a RESIDENTIAL highrise, not simply an architectural achievement.in an already congested area this will only add to the traffic and may cause considerable damage to the surrounding environment.the size seems to make the rest of the cityscape look insignificant.those who really care about chicago must realize that we have too many highrise units coming on the market 2007-2008 and this will only add to the oversupply.

jori krinsky - Sunday, January 7th, 2007 @ 4:13pm  

  A building re-zoning permit has been placed at the site December 16th 2006 (river and outer drive) making accomodations for the "Chicago Spire"...looks like it's on it's way.

Adam - Sunday, January 7th, 2007 @ 2:38pm  

  I'm in between liking and disliking this. But I know this is a lot of work for whoever is behind it, and I can respect it getting this far. It's cutting edge but goes too far into the future that is unknown, so it would be hard to match that future when it comes, and this could be surpassed. However, it does seem to blend with the rest of the skyline. You need to ask at this point, what else would be there? It won't take away from the Chicago I know. There are so many places to see, and I may never find myself at this building. With the other tributes to Art Deco in the city, Chicago needs to contribute to that tradition, in my opinion.

Ian - Saturday, January 6th, 2007 @ 11:01pm  

  As long as the spire up top is kept its a beautiful design, Chicago's lucky to have it; I live in Raleigh where great architecture goes up 40 floors. Be a leader Chicago

David Humphrey - Friday, January 5th, 2007 @ 10:22pm  

  a calatrava would be a welcome addition to chicago architecture,however it does not have to be the tallest building in the world to be significant!! given the already overbuilt residential highrise market, this is definately a bad idea.potential structural problems and cost overruns make this a project courting disaster.a building this size is totally inappropriate in this location.chicago needs to stop being so insecure and realize that having the biggest building is a shortsighted attempt at greatness.

jori krinsky - Friday, January 5th, 2007 @ 5:42pm  

  I'm rating the old design 5 stars. Living 2,00 feet up is kinda crazy. But the spire is or in this case was a great idea. The spiraling design is amazing. A beautiful building (with the spire). The new design is horrible compared to the old. It lacks the spiraling design that the old proposal has. But hey, skyscrapers were born here in the chi. It should stay here in the Chi and heck since we made it why not have the biggest. The U.S. needs to drop the 2,000 feet restriction, because we will need to build higher sometime in the future. But for now, get the spire back on there. I'd rather look at the bottom of a helicopter than actually wave at the pilot.

Jeremy - Wednesday, January 3rd, 2007 @ 6:15pm  

  The new 1300 unit design now misses the mark. Going from 450 unit to 1,300 is all about profit. Go back to the first design the "Spire" or put the new " Drill Bit " in some other city. We don't need it here!

Dave - Wednesday, January 3rd, 2007 @ 4:23pm  

  Absolutely cant wait for this structure to be built. Chicago originated the skyscraper and now we get a building that almost signifies a "crown", so elegant. The Chicago skyline is the best...New Yawkers, is all you do hate on Chicago?

Jason - Monday, January 1st, 2007 @ 3:08pm  

  I'm giving this a four simply because of its height. I'm really glad that the United States is finally trying to take the initiative and build some tall buildings again. We can't let Dubai and Shanghai be bigger and better than Chicago and New York. However, the design on this could be a little better. And, actually, I think we should go taller. 2000 feet would be great if it was completed today. But for it to be competitive in 2010, it needs to be at least a couple of hundred feet taller. And by the way, I am a native New Yorker and the Big Apple would take Chicago anyday.

Roger - Saturday, December 30th, 2006 @ 3:52pm  

  unique and very attractive building to the eye. Thank you for keeping Chicago for the race for the tallest buildings in the world.

enzo borghetto - Saturday, December 30th, 2006 @ 12:36am  

  This will surely be an impressive addition to the already impressive Chicago skyline, and provide the prestige of adding a Calatrava to the collection; however, I just worry a bit that all these twisting buildings [two are either under construction or about to start here in Vancouver, by our Canadian starchitect, Arthur Erickson] will look dated in 30 years, and no longer unique.

Paul - Friday, December 29th, 2006 @ 2:24am  

  First of all, I like the old design of the Chicago Spire better. I think it would be great if you kept the old design and made that 2000 feet without the spire. Then for good measure, put an awesome spire on top that shoots different color beams of light straight in the air according to the season. This project would then be totally complete! Imagine being able to see the spire and its light from any part of the city. That would be awesome!!!!!

Damion - Thursday, December 28th, 2006 @ 8:42pm  

  i think this is gonna be a good thing for the city of chicago. ilive in chicago and take a lot of pics of skylines and once that building goes up um gonna be takinmg mad pics of it cant wait

jaime somoza - Thursday, December 28th, 2006 @ 1:29pm  

  Used to live in chi-town and loved it. Great city. Great people. A city that shows what city living should be about. When this gets built will add to the amazing collection of signature Chicago buildings. New York has nothing on Chicago when it comes to architecture - never had. But Nou yawk got the edge when it comes to night life. Gotta say it like it is. :)

nwabu - Thursday, December 28th, 2006 @ 11:41am  

  Just what america needs to get back in the game with Cina and Dubai.

Matt - Friday, December 22nd, 2006 @ 4:56pm  

  I don't live in Chicago, but I do love Chicago and I plan to live there in the near future. The design of the fordham spire is truly amazing, but at the same time I think it doesn't fit in with the skyscrapers up there. Looks like an unthesabe building, but it is being built and now that I think about, Chicago will keep the reign as the tallest building, surpassing the edon tower and the Las Vegas Tower. Chicago has the potential to the best city, better than New York, in my opinion it is, can't wait to see this project finished in 2010!!! 5 out of 5!!!!

Stephen Simpson - Wednesday, December 20th, 2006 @ 11:42am  

  Go for it, I am looking forward to another tall building to look at from the Lake.

Tim - Tuesday, December 19th, 2006 @ 3:33pm  

  Chicago doenst need a "toothpick". We need classical looking scrapers not too modern.

JC Sixtos - Sunday, December 17th, 2006 @ 6:01pm  

  cool design, but reminds me too much of Calatravas residential tower in Malmo Sweden

scott - Saturday, December 16th, 2006 @ 5:50pm  

  I love the redesign of the structure and it would really set off the Chicago skyline.

Brian - Saturday, December 16th, 2006 @ 10:43am  

  [This will be my second posting for this project] Despite some changes such as design, number of floors and lack of spire / antenna, I still carry same thoughts and excitement. I am optimistic that despite delays and changes in ownership, project still is alive and there is talk about groundbreaking day. This project once started (even before its completion) will boost so many things for Chicago, i.e. its worldwide reputation, economic as well as architectural attraction are just few that I can count. And, this city is still ripe to many world-class projects and modern skyscrapers. I think, including Spire and Trumps� project and other high rise constructions currently underway, Chicago�s is already experiencing a new area and its attraction only snowballs. I also think that it will be fun and an important happening especially for us living locally to witness this new landmark for the city as well as the nation being erected. (I just wish that I can have the same excitement for the future plans to solve the traffic torture around entire Chicagoland!!!)

Kerem Arig - Friday, December 15th, 2006 @ 3:08pm  

  I actually like the new design much better then the old. The height of the building will still be the same,2000 feet, just the spire will be taken out. I LOVE IT, cannot WAIT!!!

Paul Shelton - Saturday, December 9th, 2006 @ 10:22pm  

  The latest changes to the Spire, as of December 6th, steal some of the awe factor. I understand the need for economic feasability, but the increased width will detract from the gracefulness of the tower. Also, the twisting element seems less sculpted. And my least favorite omission, the removal of the crowning spire from the roof. How much does this take away from the overall height? This is still Chicago, and for us, the taller, the better. Just ask Daley. Still a great design, just slightly less awesome.

Stephen - Friday, December 8th, 2006 @ 3:45pm  

  Go Chicago!!!! I love it!!!

Regi - Thursday, December 7th, 2006 @ 2:44pm  

  Gorgeous!!! America needs a building like this beautiful work of art!

Michael - Monday, December 4th, 2006 @ 10:55am  

  No Need to fear. The building has been approved and 100% equity has been put up. I live on the same street, about 1 block from the site, and the news is here that the building is definately beginning construction in june 07. So, I guess I have some trucks and construction noise to look forward to.

Matt - Friday, December 1st, 2006 @ 11:32am  

  I think the structure is amazing, but what intrigues me most is the fact that it's so different than everything else in Chicago. If this is built, it will either redefine the Chicago skyline and help open the door for similar designs or will become sort of an ugly duckling and not fit in with it's surroundings. Unfortuntaley, I feel the city of Chicago will fear the latter rather than hope for the former and reject this proposal. Hopefully if this is not built in Chicago, it is built somewhere. It'd be a shame to see such a beautiful idea put to death.

John - Tuesday, November 21st, 2006 @ 12:57pm  

  It's a beautiful, impactful structure.

Karen - Monday, November 13th, 2006 @ 8:40pm  

  Chicago's my homtown and i think the design of the tower do not fit with others towers in Chicago.The design is not that good , it looks like a twisted gum.Change the design and it will be parfect.

Max - Sunday, November 12th, 2006 @ 2:19am  

  "I just bought a condominium which I thought was five stars really, but compared with this Fordham Spire, I feel like I bought a toothpick. So five stars for The Fordham Spire is not enough, all aspects considered."

Subu - Wednesday, October 18th, 2006 @ 10:43pm  

  If we don't push the bounds we won't progress. This will be beautiful.

John - Sunday, October 15th, 2006 @ 5:55am  

  Chicagoan born and raised, I figured living downtown would make me dislike chicago, but it's made me love it more. I'd pick this city over any city in America to live in if only we'd get rid of Dailey. Really interesting and vibrant building, it'll really go well with all the artistic flair to the city, as well as fit in with Chicago's lust for taller and taller buildings. what'd be even more awesome is if that Tokyo skycity project ended up being made here as well. Though I'd be dead before that happened.

Cojax - Saturday, October 14th, 2006 @ 8:44pm  

  If Chicago wanted to reclaim the title of having the tallest building in the world, it would have been much easier to add a 300ft spire atop the Sears Tower. But no, the Fordham Spire is more than just a claim to the tallest building. It is art and innovation and a breath of fresh design that will be an exclamation point to Chicago's gorgeous skyline. Hopefully it will get built.

Anthony Thigpen - Saturday, October 14th, 2006 @ 12:38am  

  This structure is going to bring tourism and the respect that Chicago needs

Maurice - Friday, October 13th, 2006 @ 12:22pm  

  I like this building, although I prefer the design of Wright's The Illinois, a mile-high building. I hope that the Fordham Spire is built, perhaps higher than presently proposed. Chicago's architectural heritage is amazing, and it would be fitting to have the world's tallest and, perhaps, most graceful building in the great city in which the first skyscrapers were built.

Steve - Tuesday, October 10th, 2006 @ 8:10pm  

  This is truely amazing!!! I wish Montreal would have such projects! This is what you need to get consider. Finally a project where the architect can express his creativity. Amazing

Louis-Philippe Pelletier - Saturday, October 7th, 2006 @ 6:14pm  

  Fordham Spire is the most interesting and beautiful architectural project to come along a a very long time. I'm appalled that anyone would compare Calatrava's genius to Gehry's lame one-note designs. BTW, If the USA is so superior, why do we have to go all the way to Spain to find brilliant architects? Because American architecture is moribund and tedious. Thank God for Calatrava.

Kraig Blackwelder - Wednesday, October 4th, 2006 @ 8:48pm  

  I am born and raised in Chicago and have spent my life in awe of my city's wonderous skyscrapers. The addition of this building would, undoubtedly, make Chicago the supreme skyscraper capital of the world.

Luigi Perrone - Thursday, September 21st, 2006 @ 7:13am  

  If the objectof this unique and beautiful design is to dwarf the existing structures, it fulfills its purpose. Better to join the outstanding architecture of my city and enhance the total concept, perhaps a little shorter, why not a subtle statement rather than biggest, tallest, best, etc.Almost equal to Frank Gehry, or Antonio Gaudi design.

Don Williams - Monday, September 11th, 2006 @ 11:18am  

  It looks great! I love it. No place like downtown Chicago for this.

Kathy - Thursday, August 31st, 2006 @ 1:53pm  

  i just love the spire and turning torso design. i think Santiago is one of best modern designer.

Bahlakoana Sehloho - Monday, August 21st, 2006 @ 10:59am  

  Finally a structure not bound by grids. Unique!

Chen RongChang - Sunday, August 13th, 2006 @ 6:33pm  

  I like how Calatrava describes the spire "like a twisting column of smoke when the indians first settled the area". The design is great. There is no way this will be the tallest in the world when compared to Burj Dubai, but is tallest really that practical anymore. Some of the comments already posted seem to seek bragging rights. I think you could knock 300 feet OFF of this building and STILL have bragging rights. The design is new and sexy. No other building like this exists in the world. I can't wait for completion. I'll be the first to drive down from Milwaukee and see it! Way to go, Chicago!

Scott Hayes - Sunday, August 13th, 2006 @ 1:54pm  

  Interesting design. Seeing how few of these "super skyscrapers" actually get built I am skeptical whether this building will actually be built. Seeing will be believing... Here's hoping...

Jeremy - Friday, August 11th, 2006 @ 11:04pm  

  Wow, this is an amazing building, i've done my research on this project ever since i've heard about it, the designer is awesome, he knows his stuff, the cone design is great as far as being aerodynamic, and it's going to be a great addition to the skyline, and the location is great, from the pictures i've seen it bisects the 2 landmarks, the sears tower and hancock tower, thank god it's been approved.

Brian K - Monday, August 7th, 2006 @ 12:06am  

  This is GREAT for Chicago. I love Chicago and all of its builings. This adds to the beauty of the Chicago skyline, and I cannot wait to see it built. 5 stars!!

Patrick Gonzalez - Saturday, August 5th, 2006 @ 6:21pm  

  amazingly stylish, most gigantic structure on earth

joseph - Monday, July 31st, 2006 @ 3:20pm  

  Chicago should have the tallest skyscraper in the world. This design is beautiful, The condos will sell out in pre-sales. To live in this trophy building buyers will be willing to pay the premium.

Dave - Saturday, July 29th, 2006 @ 2:40pm  

  amazing and really exciting estructure, Calatrava is the one genuis in modern architecture.

carlos bernabe - Saturday, July 29th, 2006 @ 1:48am  

  Would be an extraordinary addition to our skyline. How exciting for my grandaughters who will enjoy it in the years to come!

Joan Q - Thursday, July 27th, 2006 @ 9:08pm  

  I love Chicago, my hometown. I would love to live in this tower. I wish Vancouver would get a tower like this, but 600ft is the limit so far.

Vanhattan - Thursday, July 27th, 2006 @ 1:18am  

  The Fordham Spire is of outstandingquality in design. But businessmen mustcalculate, if there are enough squarefeet for sale in such a tall building.The Spire will be good for the skylineof Chicago.

Horst Grimminger - Tuesday, July 25th, 2006 @ 4:30am  

  Chicago have to be the clean city in usa

Coray - Sunday, July 23rd, 2006 @ 12:17pm  

  ^Whats with the sense of entitlement? So what that it was born here. Quality over quantity. Carley (developer) has already been approved for the zoning requested. The height WONT change unless he feels the needs to compete, which would 1. make the project more expensive, 2. greatly decrease the chances of it being built, and 3. it would have to be redesigned. All of these things cost. Your greediness would kill this project. If this height (which I cant understand how you see height over design. Height is secondary with this project) cant satisfy you, I dont know what will. You dont build for the sake of building and money does not fall from the trees, as I sound like my parents. Lenders have to fund these things. We dont have uber-rich princes wanting to compete with other uber-rich princes on who can build the tallest towers. The city has a wonderful DESIGN with a height that compliments it very well. Thats hard to do in todays world of skyscrapers. Dont be greedy. But whatever...

Dj - Tuesday, July 11th, 2006 @ 7:45pm  

  We are the United States! The "creators" of the first skyscraper and what better city in the USA than Chichago where it claims to have build the first skyscraper? We should at least keep the title of having the tallest one in the world...

Eddie - Monday, July 10th, 2006 @ 12:46am  

  ^ Geez. Is it not tall enough already? When did 2,000ft become not tall enough? Plans wont change on the height. Im 99% sure the height is where it'll stay. You go higher, you have to tweak with the design and other technical crap (for lack of a better word lol). They dont have money just lying around waiting to be spent. So there's no such thing as "extra money". As of now, Carley is closing in on a deal for the land. Then the biggest hurdle will be the construction loan. Im very confident about this happening but things dont just happen because us scraper nerds want it. If the stats and DESIGN aren't enough to impress you, I dont know what is.

Dj - Wednesday, July 5th, 2006 @ 3:50pm  

  Nice, new, and impressive. I only wish it would be a little taller. I think they should spend the extra money to make it just a few hundred feet higher to make it the tallest building in the world. None the less there's still time for the plans to change and make it higher.

Eddie - Tuesday, July 4th, 2006 @ 1:07am  

  This tower is amazing and a new landmark for Chicago. It is one of my favorit structurs just like Chrysler Building in New York. I really hope that we will see more projekts like this in the US.

Simon Lange - Saturday, July 1st, 2006 @ 1:07pm  

  I believe Chicago has been deprived of it's constant construction of massive buildings for too long. This skyscraper will definatly revitalize what had died down over the years. The Burj Dubai in UAE will be just over 2300 ft. I don't think it would hurt for the architects to add another 310 ft of tower to it!

Adam - Monday, June 26th, 2006 @ 1:46am  

  This thing is going to be awesome. The Sears Tower is getting kinda old and we need a new building to express the modern era.

AB - Sunday, June 25th, 2006 @ 10:12pm  

  We are all looking forward to visiting this beautiful building when it is finished, hopefully construction will begin soon.

James Asbury - Sunday, June 25th, 2006 @ 8:34am  

  I've read the other posts and it seems like people are more concerned about having the tallest building in Chicago rather than the actual design of the building itself. I think its a really interesting structure in that its taking into account current technological developments in the field, and in the long run, thats probably the most important aspect of this project. People have to realize that holding the title of "world's tallest building" is short lived and temporary. Chicago is already a household name in the architectural community, with or without the Sears tower. This city gave birth to the skyscraper after all. Eventually, even the tallests buildings will be surpassed--the Burjs Tower in Dubai--and the Fordham Spire, should it get built. The most important thing right now is that a building like this will diversify the somewhat monotonous structures and skyline of Chicago. This building--if built--probably will mark another milestone in Chicago's history. But it wont be because it will be one of the worlds tallest buildings, but because it could inspire a change in the architectural language of this great city.

Miguel - Thursday, June 15th, 2006 @ 8:45pm  

  I think this building is amazing and I hope that it gets built. I know that it will fit my home city of Chicago just fine. However, I just wish that they will increase the height of the building from the ground to the roof because without the spire it will be just a little bit taller than our very own Sears Tower. Im not a big fan of claiming world's tallest because of a long spire. That's why no one's talking about Trump's building around here.So keep the spire but make the actual building 2000ft.then put the spire on top of it. Let's really make a statement to the world that Chicago really is the city of big shoulders.

Damion Black - Wednesday, June 14th, 2006 @ 2:10am  

  What you peolpe need to realize critisizing the Fordham Spire project is that it will not look EXACTLY like that. They take time to re-evaluate the design. Who knows, maybe it will be another black tower, along with the Sears Tower and John Hancock Center.I think it is a wonderful idea. It will not only keep Chicago as holding the tallest building in all of North America, but possibly the tallest building in the whole world, depending on the height of that other building in the United Arab Emirates.

Hollister. - Tuesday, June 13th, 2006 @ 8:55pm  

  I've just come back from visiting Chicago and I've never been to a finer city. And I've been everywhere, man... This building is beautiful - poetry like someone's said - and a perfect landmark for the new generation. I'm sure I'll be visiting many more times until 2010.

Elton Alwine - Wednesday, June 7th, 2006 @ 11:00am  

  I love the idea, but the height dwarfs everthing around it. It becomes a distracting focal point rather than blending into the rest of the beautiful Chicago skyline.

- Chicago Resident - Sunday, June 4th, 2006 @ 10:19pm  

  I think this is a wonderful building and it is about time the world's most prominent architects realize that there is a tremendous amount of opportunity for cutting edge architecture outside of Europe.

Jonathan - Saturday, June 3rd, 2006 @ 11:49am  

  A magnificent building which compliments Chicago's unique high-rise architecture. Can't wait till it's finished!

Justin M - Friday, June 2nd, 2006 @ 4:12am  

  This building will get built, with all the hype surrounding this structure and with the man who designed it, why wouldn�t you want to live in great modern architecture. One thing that is true, Chicago has a very powerful Mayor, and what Mayor Daley wants, Mayor Daley gets, and he wants this building built and so does the Chicago City Planning Commission and they understand the immediate impact the Fordham Spire will have on the City of Chicago. Chicago�s a city where architects can push the envelope of creativity, Frank Lloyd Wright, Helmut Jahn and now Santiago Calatrava.

Jack - Friday, May 26th, 2006 @ 10:42am  

  This structure will be a beautiful addition to Chicago!!! Chicago is already on the map for it's architecture, this would be another step forward.

Alicia - Wednesday, May 24th, 2006 @ 2:46pm  

  I live across the street from the proposed Fordham Spire (Lake Point Tower) and I already have my name on the waiting list for this beautiful building. I want to move in today! I hope you build it!

Dave S - Wednesday, May 24th, 2006 @ 1:55am  

  That's not just a building- it's poetry: a coil of Indian smoke to the sky, marking the mouth of the Chicago River. Responding to nature and the spirit of place like that makes it a truly great building. I'm even happier it'll be the tallest skyscraper in America. New York's Freedom Tower now looks fugly, corporate and totally uninspired, now that all of those comittees have messed with the plans. Fordham Spire, in true Chicago style, would be a science fiction vision come to life. It was foreseen in the film I, Robot, which put the futuristic USR corporation in Chicago's tallest building, a Calatrava-inspired skyscraper! Get behind this project, Chicago! I'd come all the way from Sydney just to see it. And I hope you get the 2016 Olympics too...

Dave W - Tuesday, May 23rd, 2006 @ 7:02am  

  I believe its very good idea to build such a stunning building.

Lukas - Saturday, May 20th, 2006 @ 7:40pm  

  I have to say that this tower is going to be the best building in the world , and what better than building it in my hometown chicago illinois. good job chicago , it is also better for the city because it will surpass new york city's skyline easily , and it will attract celebrities and more and more tourist.

Mario - Friday, May 19th, 2006 @ 12:23pm  

  It's the best building that Calatreva has designed EVER. I hope it will be build

enriklopez - Wednesday, May 17th, 2006 @ 11:05am  

  Build it!!! It will be a wonderful addition to best skyline and the great city of Chicago.

John - Tuesday, May 16th, 2006 @ 9:50pm  

  The skyscraper is NOT dead. This design is just what one would expect from Chicago architecture...orginal, edgy, but tasteful and cool. Get 'er done!

Chris D. - Wednesday, May 10th, 2006 @ 1:06am  

  It's beautiful. It's sublime. It's the future. I look forward to the day when Chicago can again claim to be home to The World's Tallest Building.

Mike - Tuesday, May 9th, 2006 @ 10:52am  

  I have been listening about this eventful building project for long time. Hopefully no more squabbling will delay, adjourn or abandon this reputable project for Chicago. Though change is the only constant in the world still for quit some time Chicago will enjoy the title of owning a building 2000 ft high.

Akhil Yamdagni - Friday, April 28th, 2006 @ 11:44am  

  Umpa! I Love What Chi-Ca-Go is doing! Yay for Mr. Chrisman! I Love THe SPire!-Zimbo Click.

Zimbo Click - Friday, April 28th, 2006 @ 9:51am  

  Los espa�oles tenemos la suerte de poder disfrutar de la arquitectura de Santiago Calatrava en muchos lugares de nuestro pais y creo que ser�a magnifico que en una ciudad como Chicago pudieran tener esta gran obra de un genio de la arquitectura moderna

Antonio Romero - Friday, April 28th, 2006 @ 8:09am  

  Santiago Calatrava is one of the greatest modern architect of our time. He really thinks outside to box and designs with a nice futuristic taste. Any project done by this man is truely amazing.

Adam Ostman - Thursday, April 27th, 2006 @ 10:58pm  

  I think the design is inspiring. However, I have seen little on how it will be incorporated into the area. Is this just going to be another building added to the sterile neighborhood of Streeterville? This is a great opportunity to re-evaluate the needs of the neighborhood, and build a dynamic community.

Ben - Tuesday, April 25th, 2006 @ 4:28pm  

  Great design, not great location. Way too expensive to build. Market is flooded with $2million condos. Only way is if hotel and HDTV tower finance the condo part. Would love to see it built.

Andrew - Monday, April 24th, 2006 @ 8:30pm  

  A beautiful addition to our skyline. We anticipate this will become a great destination for living and working. Let your spirit soar while your mind dances in "the spire".

bonnieb-Keller Williams River North - Monday, April 24th, 2006 @ 1:21am  

  An absolute gem. We weren't able to get 7 S. Dearborn but we (City of Chicago and it's residents) will now watch this elegant and majestic jewel go up and grace our wonderful skyline. Visitors already enjoy our city immensely. This will have them leaving Chicago wishing they could spend more time here.

Manny Chavez - Saturday, April 22nd, 2006 @ 1:21pm  

  I am proud to be a Chicago resident.

Andy - Saturday, April 22nd, 2006 @ 1:18am  

  I love it! its briging chicago into the 21st century with high style :) eveyhing about chicago is becomming much bigger and high tech.

matthew - Friday, April 21st, 2006 @ 8:30pm  

  I am so excited! it looks phenomenal and will forever alter (in a good way!) the chicago skyline.

Elizabeth - Friday, April 21st, 2006 @ 5:10pm  

  Like the hood ornament on a fine automobile, this building will stand out front and center as a commanding and powerful statement of how great and influential Chicago is on the rest of the world. Well done with a great design that finally breaks the square box routine that other boring buildings have become. Thank you Mr. Calatrava for this wonderful gift that you have given to the people of this city. Bravo!

Steve - Friday, April 21st, 2006 @ 9:41am  

  Now that the zoning has been changed for this building it seems more likely to be built. At first, I wasn't so fond of the design, but the more I see it, the more I like it. My initial drill bit vision of this tower changed once I thought of it as a smoke plume sprialing upwards. It is certainly different and exemplifies the ingenuity and world class status of Chicago.

Ken - Wednesday, April 19th, 2006 @ 7:17pm  

  Love it! Can't wait for it to start being built in my home City! Imagine the skyline view from the Lake! As far as the Tokyo comment, there are only a handful of towers in Tokyo higher than 50 stories -- it'd look ridiculous there @ 126 stories. . . Plus the frequent earthquakes. . .

Richard Walker - Wednesday, April 19th, 2006 @ 11:28am  

  Stunning, inspireing, there is so much buzz about this building most everyone loves it and is excited to see it built. Hopefully the largest of many projects proposed for Chicago will get built. Lets hope the economy hangs in there

Kent - Saturday, April 15th, 2006 @ 9:38pm  

  God, this is too clean and corporate for me. It belongs in Tokyo. I prefer Chicago's simple homely feel as is. I live right downtown.

Karen - Tuesday, April 11th, 2006 @ 10:24am  

  This is a GREAT and exciting accomplishment for both Mr. Calatrava and the City of Chicago! The Fordham Spire, along with other 1000+ foot buildings going up is creating an exciting time for both Chicago and the US. Many people are claiming this will be the "world's tallest", which is not true. Burj Dubai (UAE) will be much taller than 2000 feet; perhaps up to 3000 feet. Nonetheless, I believe that Chicago will long surpass Dubai and many other quickly developing global cities as one of the world's great skylines and cities. ABJ-Chicago, IL, USA

ABJ - Tuesday, April 11th, 2006 @ 9:15am  

  this is awsome i just found out that chicago has accepted the proposel of the fordham spire.

alex - Monday, April 10th, 2006 @ 8:50pm  

  I think that so far Kerem from Turkey (?) said it best: **********"This is a pretty brave project and challenging design, not a project of a mere tall building. If built, this would be building to add furthermore onto Chicago's worldwide image and its attraction in many ways. I love this city and I am pretty excited with this project as well as Trumps, which I believe that both are to be landmark additions to Chicago's skyline that we have not seen of these kinds since 70s."*****I'm an optimist at heart. I love big projects. The Chicago skyline is one of the many reasons why I moved here. It's elegant, tall, far-reaching, but not gaudy/pretentious/ostentatous, etc. This is a city of Big Shoulders. It's a great blend of being able to put in the hard work & erect massive buildings, yet still have the refinement of appreciating the details and finer things in life. But most of all, as cold as Chicago can get in the winters, I think that we are VERY warm & welcoming hosts. One of my favorite things to do is to help obviously lost tourists on Michigan Ave. find what they're looking for. It's that corn-fed Midwestern attitude that helps build Chicago into both a world-class city, but also an ultimately accessible place to live, work & visit. I look forward to seeing BOTH the Trump & Fordham Spire added to our skyline. I also hope to see them added before we (hopefully) host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.But we'll see about all of that in the future. In the meantime, I want to say THANK YOU to the brilliant architects that designed these buildings, the crafty (*gasp*) politicians (Yes, they ARE necessary sometimes) who allowed the zoning to happen, and the hard-working guys who pour the concrete & glass that actually but the meat on the bones of these incredible structures.Larry LaVanwayChiago, IL

Lawrence LaVanway - Monday, April 10th, 2006 @ 5:57pm  

  Like the Lighthouse of Alexandria guiding travelers to that ancient city, the Fordham Spire will act as a modern day lighthouse welcoming the world to Chicago. This is the right design and the right location for this building. Chicago and the state of Illinois should do everything in its power to see that this is built. This is a magnificent building adding another monument to a gorgeous skyline.

Thomas Semesky - Monday, April 10th, 2006 @ 12:44pm  

  From my living room I look over the plot of land this building will some day rest, and assure you all this building and that plot of land couldn't be a better match for each other... period.

Dan - Sunday, April 9th, 2006 @ 8:53pm  

  Awesome, a new step into the world of architecture. With its unique design its a sight to rival the look of the Sears Tower.

Sam - Sunday, April 9th, 2006 @ 4:19am  

  Chicago must build this tower. It would fit so perfect in the amazing skyline. I live here and think chicago is the best city world. We deserve this building, it is truly a work of art

Jeremy - Sunday, April 9th, 2006 @ 1:58am  

  I think this building is a stunning architectural and engineering achievement, however, it looks like a giant twisted candle. The spire on top even looks like a candle wick sticking out! Ugly Ugly Ugly. If it gets built I do hope they add a little more height so that the supertall Burj Dubai building in the United Arab Emirates does not surpass it as the world's tallest building. I want the U.S. to have the tallest and where better than in Chicago.

David Woods - Friday, April 7th, 2006 @ 8:11pm  

  This is one of the most exiting events in the history of Chicago Architecture since the construction of the Sears Tower.

Victor - Friday, April 7th, 2006 @ 1:51pm  

  Breathtaking! Chicago, as always, continues to lead the nation in innovation and splendor. Our city is now perhaps the crown jewel of US skylines and the Fordham spire will only further our history into the 21st century. Culture, history, architecture, food, and people are all the major buzzwords of Chicago and, I think 'Fordham Spire' just might become synonomous with them! Chicago is a city that has never quit from reaching for the sky!

Thomas - Friday, April 7th, 2006 @ 4:40am  

  I've read all your comments and my opinion is that this building can be a new start to the future itself, and we are like the starters of bringing the next-generation,...so i think that this is a pretty good idea, because we are kinda boring..ya think :)

Michael the Phuture - Thursday, April 6th, 2006 @ 10:44am  

  I just love the idea of a new skyscraper in Chicago. It's been a while since Sears Tower was built and I think its time to add a new landmark to Chicago's skyline.

Kris - Tuesday, April 4th, 2006 @ 10:03pm  

  I'm torn on this...a beautiful building, but I don't know that it fits so well in the "city of broad shoulders" This building looks to be very thin - great for not obstructing views, but I feel it may look out of place with the other more robust buildings to share the skyline with. Perhaps this will not be an issue once its built, just because of its sheer size alone.

Ryan - Tuesday, April 4th, 2006 @ 2:14pm  

  Finally again Chicago will be on top of the list for the home of the world's tallest skyscraper. Chicago needs to attract more celebrities and people and this is a wonderful way. Next I'd like to see casino hotels right up next to the lake. Chicago could be the mini Las Vegas lakeshore strip.

JR - Saturday, April 1st, 2006 @ 11:35pm  

  This building is absolutely ugly! It looks like a big drill bit pointed at the sky, or like one great lightning rod. I love Chicago with all my heart, but this building will be a disgrace to the city if it is built.

apollo - Saturday, April 1st, 2006 @ 10:10pm  

  This building would look so elegant on the chicago skyline. I really hope that it is built, it would add to chicago's charm.

Arthur - Tuesday, March 28th, 2006 @ 3:54pm  

  We love this building.......we're totally moving to chicago for residency! We're going to get a group of people to live in it so we can afford it!

Marshall and Kerri - Friday, March 24th, 2006 @ 4:55pm  

  Beautiful plan. Great design. Small footprint is terrificly better thatn the alternative of two short, fat towers.

Seymour N. Lotsoff - Friday, March 24th, 2006 @ 3:39pm  

  Fantastic....hoping this plan will be successfull...as a resident of the chicago area,,,we love our tall buildings....

Ray S - Thursday, March 23rd, 2006 @ 3:27pm  

  This is the most beautiful structure ever designed be a human being! I hope this gets built.

Craig - Thursday, March 23rd, 2006 @ 1:08pm  

  This tower SHOULD be a GREAT addition to the Chicago skyline. Sort of like what the Sydney Opera House does / did for Sydney, Australia. I lived in Australia while the Opera House was being built and there were plenty of nay sayers to that project, too! But, think about it, just about any picture one sees of Sydney / Australia includes, in the background, either the Opera House or "the Coat Hanger"!(e.g. Sydney Harbour Bridge) And yes, there was plenty of doubt about the bridge, too! GO FOR IT!!!

Dean - Monday, March 20th, 2006 @ 9:29pm  

  This will be a fine addition to the Chicago's sky line. It is a very futuristic kind of building. But it seems as if the pin part of it is half of the building itself....

Elyse - Friday, March 17th, 2006 @ 3:31pm  

  Way to go Chicago! Would be worth a return visit when its completed.

Johnny - Friday, March 17th, 2006 @ 2:19am  

  5 Stars......Magnificent.... Chicago has remained and will continue to bring out the best in world-class architecture! All parties involved should get this project up and out of the ground as soon as possible. Absolutely magnificent!

Paul Kubina - Thursday, March 16th, 2006 @ 5:20pm  

  I�ve been in Chicago for Holiday and I can tell you that its skyline is already amazing, but I also agree that if the Fordham Spire is built, chicago will have the most impressive and beautiful skyline in the world. Build it!!!

Vidal - Thursday, March 16th, 2006 @ 4:59pm  

  A fantastic location. This structure would balance the skyline, fixing the problem the Sears Tower creates. Now the Aon, Sears, Trump, Hancock and hopefully Fordham will contribute to the most aesthetically pleasant and impressive skyline in the world, and a mark of Mankind's motives and accomplishments in this universe.

Mark Ciesielczyk - Wednesday, March 15th, 2006 @ 1:31am  

  An amazing architectural feat, truly original. This skyscraper just simply must be built. If not in Chicago then bring it to Australia!

Lachlan - Monday, March 13th, 2006 @ 3:40am  

  A breathtakingly innovative design. This building overwhelmignly reasserts the city's global reputation for unique and imaginative architecture. This structure will make the Chicago skyline nearly impossible to overcome for stature and beauty.

Joel K - Friday, March 10th, 2006 @ 1:51pm  

  We need this skyscraper, so we can say "this was built in Chicago.

Brent Kampert - Friday, March 10th, 2006 @ 12:58pm  

  I think this skyscraper would look amazing in the already beautiful Chicago skyline. BUILD IT!!!!

Derek - Thursday, March 9th, 2006 @ 11:54pm  

  Not only is Chicago (where i live) a city of many skyscrapers but a city of art and if you have not been to chicago it has to be one of the most beautiful cities I know of. I think you will too.

SAM - Thursday, March 9th, 2006 @ 7:11pm  

  If we do not build this buiding what will we be saying? We will be saying that we are afraid, this is not what is intended especially by US Citizens. We need to stand up we cant just hide like a small building in front of a big one, we need to rise and be courageous like the Spire.

Julian Hernandez - Sunday, March 5th, 2006 @ 10:57am  

  Teriffic! A fitting monument for Chicago, and exactly in line with foreword-thinking Chicago architecture.

Andy - Saturday, February 25th, 2006 @ 6:55pm  

  This is a pretty brave project and challenging design, not a project of a mere tall building. If built, this would be building to add furthermore onto Chicago's worldwide image and its attraction in many ways. I love this city and I am pretty excited with this project as well as Trumps, which I believe that both are to be landmark additions to Chicago's skyline that we have not seen of these kinds since 70s.

Kerem Arig - Friday, February 10th, 2006 @ 2:49pm  

  I was vertually raised in the city of chicago, and i beilive this building will be a buitiful addidtion to our skyline. This structure will continue on the inovation into the 21st centery that our city is famous for.

Stu, Downers - Wednesday, February 1st, 2006 @ 9:50pm  

  What a tremendous architectural addition to Chicago's already outstanding skyline. The building is very elegant and powerful at the same time. The tower's presence will continue what Chicago started over 100 years ago as the birthplace of modern architecture and technology for the world to follow.

Michael - Wednesday, August 10th, 2005 @ 12:05am  

  I love skyscrapers and towers and how an architect can creat a structure that goes beyond what seems logical. You take one look at what Santiago Calatrava has created and you know it would be a special addition to not just Chicago but to all of humanity. It makes you feel free some how.

Jade Doel - Tuesday, August 9th, 2005 @ 12:38pm  

  I think that this building is great. It has a very nice color, and a nice shape. This tower will fit in with the Chicago skyline perfectly. Hey the Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana Area has another building to look at from far away and I think that the city of Chicago should not turn this down because of what happen on 9/11

Christopher G. Morgan - Thursday, August 4th, 2005 @ 1:38pm  

  very nice ,but not a inovative design there is already a building similar be built northern europe also the last occupational floor is around or below the height of the Sears tower(which truly is the tallest building in the world for decades)but its great for Chicago, with experimental architectural designs,I believe the final occupational floor should be higher to really set a record. it will sure be a nice asset to the chicago skyline the unicorn horn of the north!

Wilbert NYC - Wednesday, August 3rd, 2005 @ 12:49am  

  awesome! I dont care about what ppl say about it being cliqued, it would bring a new, unique feel to the Windy City

matt - Tuesday, August 2nd, 2005 @ 11:32pm  

  If Chicago turns this great building down, let's move it to New York as the Freedom Tower instead of that bureaucratic monster now planned to occupy the nation's most sacred site.

Jorgito - Tuesday, August 2nd, 2005 @ 12:53pm  

  Great height, great location, not so great design. I think it's clever to have the twist, but not on the entire building. It doesn't blend in. In my opinion, it would look better if the base were rectangular, then half-way up the building the twist begins.

Scott - Saturday, July 30th, 2005 @ 9:34pm  

  Here we go! The next Tower! Fantastic light effect at night...

Simon Lange - Saturday, July 30th, 2005 @ 11:01am  

  The architecture is a materpiece of art. The building will add great magnificence to the Chicago Skyline.

Ray S - Friday, July 29th, 2005 @ 11:26am  

  Building with little innovation and terrible design for its location.

Brad - Thursday, July 28th, 2005 @ 6:29pm  

  I traveled all around the world,I have seen all the new asian buildings going up,this would now compete,and blow them away.this is the home of the skyscrapers,have we forgotten that we are americans,that building is who we are not only in chicago,but to the world

nick - Thursday, July 28th, 2005 @ 4:10pm  

  I like it, even though it might be a bit too slender to contend with the Sears, Aon and John Hancock towers in Chicago's skyline if built. I've heard that Donald Trump accused it of being irresponsible to build so high after 9/11, but wasn't he in favour of rebuilding the twin towers? The Trump building in Chicago under construction is not exactly 'tiny' either. Me thinks he just doesn'twant anyone to out do him in the real estate market.

Nik - Thursday, July 28th, 2005 @ 12:25pm  

   Ever since they came out with the new Autocad software feature allowing you to rotate each floor incrementally, almost every major city has come up with a proposal for an "incredibly clever" twisted skyscraper. EG. the scrapped NY Freedom Tower plan. We get it, you can stop now. This gimmick resembles, and is becoming as cliched as, the huge jars stuffed with peppers in Walmart. Looks cool the first time... then people would look at Chicago and say -"Oh.. you actually bought one of those? Who ate all the peppers?!"

Steve - Thursday, July 28th, 2005 @ 11:09am  

  This Will be a Fabulous Building for Chi-Town. it its time for a change for the Skyline and i Hope the Plan is Succesful.

Billy - Thursday, July 28th, 2005 @ 1:07am