The Slatin Report - The Spire: Chicago LIte?:
"If any American city can call upon its history of buildings to demonstrate that it deserves a new symbol, Chicago certainly qualifies. But this project should not be mistaken for that symbol, as I fear it has been. What unifies and underlies Chicago’s great buildings is an urban scheme that embraces its realm rather than notches its belt over height and deal considerations. That notion, of a broader idea than simply a towering, needlenosed presence, is singularly lacking in the Carley proposal. But then, with an architect earning – rightfully, in my view – up to $1,500 an hour for design services (at least on some public-realm jobs – we don’t know his fees in this case), the developer may not wish to spring for more comprehensive and thoughtful solutions. To some real estate minds, a trophy property is plan enough; other ideas will simply follow."
