^

I searched through those archives and my favorite projects are the Irishtown Bend townhouses, and the Quay 55 building. The Irishtown Bend homes were absolutely stunning, I was just a little bit dissappointed that the developer said that they would like to build more, but it doesn't sound like it is going to happen anytime soon. Quay 55 I think was one of Clevelands most visible signs of re-birth. A lot of people do not know what is going on the the WD, Flats, Ohio City, Tremont, or Detroit Shoreway, so I think that this project was a good way to show all Clevelander's that people are willing to live in the city. Jeez my parents were even talking about these condo's one night. Also, it sounds like they have plans to extend the project, and on their website it says the townhomes are planned for 2005 (Although I am not sure how often they update the site). If this project can add additional phases ala Stonebridge, I think it can really get the lake front plan started from the east. Also, if this area grows I really think somebody will finally develop that old, abandoned hotel next to channel 8.

^Yes, the old Howard Johnson hotel.  That actually used to be a relly nice place.  If I remember correctly, years ago, they were going to knock it down.

People have advanced all sorts of plans to redevelop the HoJo's as another hotel or apartments or whatever.  Nothing lately, however.  Like the Quay 55, fixing it up would definitely be a major sign to people that Cleveland is on its way back up because of its high visibility.

I searched through those archives and my favorite projects are the Irishtown Bend townhouses, and the Quay 55 building. The Irishtown Bend homes were absolutely stunning, I was just a little bit dissappointed that the developer said that they would like to build more, but it doesn't sound like it is going to happen anytime soon. Quay 55 I think was one of Clevelands most visible signs of re-birth. A lot of people do not know what is going on the the WD, Flats, Ohio City, Tremont, or Detroit Shoreway, so I think that this project was a good way to show all Clevelander's that people are willing to live in the city. Jeez my parents were even talking about these condo's one night. Also, it sounds like they have plans to extend the project, and on their website it says the townhomes are planned for 2005 (Although I am not sure how often they update the site). If this project can add additional phases ala Stonebridge, I think it can really get the lake front plan started from the east. Also, if this area grows I really think somebody will finally develop that old, abandoned hotel next to channel 8.

 

 

I respectfully disagree.  I think that TWD, E. 4/Gateway, Ohio City, Tremont get the MAJORITY of inner-city/urban housing press.  I don't think neighborhoods (some are sections of larger hoods) like superior-payne, Asian Village, Duck Island, Glenville, Fairfax, Upper Prospect, Quay, Collinwood & slavic Village get noticed. 

 

Time to spread the love around by having more press and PR on these hoods in place like:

- cleveland plain dealer, each of these hoods should have a neighborhood reporter and an in-depth section telling readers the positives of the area.

 

- information section on websites like digital city, city search, USAToday, etc.

 

- help create websites for these communities

 

Currently all we promote is downtown.  I think the downtown/near downtown hoods are stable enough to promote themselves and complete current development & line up future development.  the exception being the sea of parking lots just west of public square.

 

Now that the Avenue project has been proposed, its time to work on the area north and east of the Galleria. 

In regards to the legal squabble over the location of the ground-floor lobby, it looks like they've reworked it. I wonder if the actual lobby will start at the base of the tower (top of the garage). The 'before' is on the left, the 'after' is on the right. Hmm...

 

I like the new plan better. It creates a visual integration between the old parking structure and the new condo mid-rise. The old version looked like some giant came along and set down his 400-ton beer can on top of a coaster and said f*ck it, I'm done.

 

By the way, Pope, don't get too excited about the 400-ton beer can. It was just a metaphor..... :wave:

 

KJP

well, this drawing does nothing for me, since the first one didn't really represent the building very well, so I don't feel that the second will do any better. 

 

what's exciting is that it's a solution to a pretty significant problem that's been keeping the project from competion, so whatever, I'm for it!

I couldn't get closer, and I posted this in my photo thread, but hey here it is again.

 

From Sept. 2, 2005 - the structural steel for the "lobby" is going up:

 

Nice

Here are 3 more of work from Saturday, Sept 3, 2005:

 

Notice plane from airshow in this shot<img src="http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b102/urbanlife/pinnacle_entry3.jpg" alt="Pinnacle Entry">

 

<img src="http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b102/urbanlife/pinnacle_entry4.jpg" alt="Pinnacle Entry">

 

<img src="http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b102/urbanlife/pinnacle_entry2.jpg" alt="Pinnacle Entry">

 

<img src="http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b102/urbanlife/pinnacle_entry.jpg" alt="Pinnacle Entry">

Is that the "afterthought" elevator shaft?

 

KJP

I like the way that it projects out and blocks almost the entire sidewalk.

What is the new completion date?  And yes that weird elevator/lobby completely blocks the sdewalk.

So, unless you live on the main floor, you need to take 2 elevators to get to your condo? Or is this only a front entrance elevator.. isn't there another one in the parking garage that access all floors??? I'm quite confused. I know this one has something to do with a dispute between the garage owner and the Pinnacle owner.

Looks like the Pinnacle will be having an open house this Thursday, for any interested! Unfortunately I have class...

 

from The View from St. Clair, http://www.cleveland.com/weblogs/theview/

 

Tour My Neighborhood

Many of you know I sit, writing this blog, from my loft in The Grand Arcade. The Grand Arcade is just one of the outstanding downtown living spaces located in the Historic Warehouse District. We would like to invite YOU to join us at this year's Historic Warehouse District Holiday Tour on Thursday, December 8, 2005.

 

Come and see one of Cleveland's most impressive success stories for yourself - - and maybe you will be convinced to become my new neighbor. On December 8th, the Historic Warehouse District will open its doors to showcase some of our most spectacular living spaces.

 

Tour apartments at the Bradley Building, Bridgeview, 425 Lakeside and Perry Payne. See condos at the Grand Arcade, Erie Building and the brand new Pinnacle, which is nothing short of sensational.

 

Read More...

Just an fyi, I believe tickets for the tours start around $50ish.

 

What's funny on that blog you cited is seeing that the writer is from my hometown, and she even explains how she always has to clarify that it's neither in Massachusetts nor off I-71!  :lol:

WHOA! $50??? :-o Seems like the blogger should have mentioned that...

yikes!  how much does the Ohio City Home Tour usually cost? 

Just confirmed, they're actually $60 - while it's a bit pricey, I'm pretty sure this is their big fundraiser as a non-profit.

 

I'm not sure about the Ohio City tour, I can check though.

 

 

 

AIA Cleveland had a show at Ingenuity Fest entitled "Archtictural Details"  The show highlighted the use of details on architectural projects all over the country and some right here in cleveland.  of particular interest to me was a plan to create a giant bulkhead on the front of the pinnacle that would pay homage and connect the building to lake and river history.  I didn't think they were going to employ it, but it seems they have created a giant bulkhead indeed.

I like the fact that it brings the building down to street level.  my only concern is whether or not the structure actually looks like a bulkhead as it appears to be made of glass rather than steel...

really?  i thought the whole reason that this addition was necessary was because the developer/owner was not able to put the lobby and elevator inside, since his garage leaser would not give up a couple parking spaces?  I never heard that it was intended to be an architectural feature...more like a "we've got to save our asses" type of response so that they could actually open this thing up!

^what a convenient way to describe the kick-out to prospective tenants

 

I believe the detail, as it was designed, would have looked a bit more like a claes oldenberg sculpture and less like an elevator shaft.

However, as you've stated above, I too understand the project ran into a problem regarding moving residents from the ground floor up into the structure and im guessing that this already-designed "architectural detail" gave the developers an easy way to solve the problem. 

Ok bitches here ya go, fresh from today:

 

 

This building is very "miami esq" in appearance.

 

Glad its almost done.  Now lets get some more crane up in the air!

I actually don't mind it!  It's a little weird how it juts out into the sidewalk, but that street isn't exactly a normal through street, so I don't see that being a huge problem. 

 

It's such a stark contrast to what that garage looked like beforehand...pretty remarkable really!

The last few times I've been by Pinnacle in the evening or at night, I've noticed a couple of the units have lights on inside and appear to be "finished." There appeared to be furniture, light fixtures etc. in at least one of the units. Perhaps it is a model unit. Anyone know?

 

Also, any word on unit sales?

Hey All-

 

I've been a lurker here on the boards for about a year now but I think I've finally found the time to get involved.  I'm a sophomore at the George Washington University in Washington D.C., which I've attended since graduation from a high school in the West Side 'burbs in 2004.  Like everyone here on UrbanOhio, I'm a passionate booster of Cleveland and I'm constantly inspired by each piece of news I read on here that points to the continued revitalization of our great city. 

 

It's funny that KJP just posted what's above, as, just today, I had the opportunity to take a tour through the Pinnacle.  To those frustrated by it's slow progress, I'll tell you this: It is absolutely worth the wait!

 

I think a few of you would probably be quite excited to hear what I learned during the hour I was there, so here's a little summary.  Forgive me if this post's a little long.

 

First, all the hype surrounding this project certainly built it up as something groundbreaking for the Cleveland market, more likely to be found in South Beach or Canary Wharf than anything seen in our little burg before.  IMHO, such hype has been translated into reality.  The most breathtaking feature of the building are the views.  From Browns Stadium to the Flats to the Terminal Tower, the vistas from this building is just like being in a "Believe in Cleveland" commercial! :wink:  And there really are no bad views, either; it seems that crazy curvy exterior really does improve the sightlines, as even the non-corner units have just about a 180 degree shot. 

 

The lobby, which is quite spacious, maintains this ambiance, and the seemingly awkward front entrance isn't acutally quite as strange, at least based on one trip.  Once again, the elevator is glass, so you have a great sense of openess and even a bit of a view.  Parking for the Pinnacle is the third through fifth floors of the garage, and the lobby is on the third, so there is some method to this madness if you arrive by car.  The other garage levels have elevator access directly to the rest of the building.

 

There aren't any models or the like.  But there are indeed a few units (mostly on the lower floors) that are basically complete, and I believe I even heard that the building already has it's first four residents (This is probably what you have seen, KJP).  This is because of the procedure Georgalis is using for completeing the building: None of the units will be sold finished.  A buyer gets an essentially open floor plan, a blank slate.  After a client agrees on a unit, they have 30 days to complete a design with the developer.  So, for example, they can decide if they would like an open, loft-style unit, or a more traditional design.  There is a flexibiltiy in the number of bedrooms, or number of baths.  Both ceiling and floor type and style can be seleceted.  And, of course, they will select their style of countertops, cabinets, hardware, etc.  After this 30 day design period has elapsed, construction will take approximately another 90 days.  Or so he said.  Considering the history of this project, I'd imagine their could be a slight fudge-factor...

 

When a unit is purchased and completed, the common areas of the floor the unit is on will be completed as well, even if it's the only unit on the floor occupied.  The rest will sit with their doors locked, empty pads of concrete until someone comes along and buys it.  A little creepy, at least to me, but it doesn't sound like there will be any "Dark Water" scenarios for long (that rubbish movie from this summer about a ghastly Roosevelt Island apartment building), which brings me to my next item.

 

As of today, we were told that 50 of the 79 units have been sold.  The traffic in the sales office (on the ground floor of the Cloak Factory, off Johnson Court), as well as the cell phone calls our representave was taking during our tour, seemed to back this up.  While they have been on the market for a while, this still seems pretty impressive, considering these are in the $500,000-$1.5 million price range.  They are on their third round of price increases, as well.  While there are only a few units at this point that are at or near completion, they are predicting that a large chunk of those 50 units will be finished by mid-March.  Now, is one of those owned by a prominent R&B star with more than a passing interest in the Cavs?  If you've been paying any attention to the LeBron & Co. over the past few months, you will remember the rumor that Usher has made a purchase at the Pinnacle.  When such a possibility was mentioned while touring one of the penthouses, our man sprouted a big grin and mumbled something about not being allowed to discuss the specifics of any deals...  Whether he was just trying to maintain the buzz or was for real, he definitely left the impression that there is some credence to the rumor.  I'm sure we'll find out soon enough!

 

Hopefully this makes up for the relative dirth of news about the Pinnacle over the past few months.  There's definitely some stuff I missed, so I'll try and answer any questions you might have.  I did take quite a few pictures too, so once I get them loaded on my computer I'll attempt to post them on here.  But like I said at the beginning, I think ya'll will be hugely impressed with the finished project.  It was great to see the energy the (young) sales staff had for it, and even better to finally see first hand what we've all been waiting for.  And as impressive as it is, its dwarfed by what's planned for the WHD and the rest of Downtown Cleveland over the next five years, and that's more exciting than anything.

brtshrcegr,

 

Welcome to the board!  Hope you can come back to Cleveland when you graduate like a bunch of us have.

Once these units are finished I think that they will sell quickly. The only reason that sales have been lagging is probably because of the amount of negative publicity that this development has received. brtshrcegr, welcome to that board, thanks for the update, and I can't wait for your pictures!

i've noticed a decent amount of lights on at night when im driving home from work from the flats.  i wonder if this developer will do any other projects after this project or if there will be any word on that other condo building that was supposed to go up in the parking light next to the pinnacle

brtshrcegr, what a great debut post! :)

That is certainly all great news about the Pinnacle; I'm dying to go inside now. Welcome to the board, and as Wimwar said -- come back to C-town when you're done in DC! Exciting stuff going on here for urbanists.

Welcome brtshrcegr!  Thanks for all the goodies!  I hope to get a tour sometime as well.  It sounds fantastic!  Also, about WoolyBear's post...do you think the negative press has gone far beyond our little musings here on UrbanOhio?  I don't think most people are as perceptive as we are and may just think positive things about highly visible new construction.  Anyway, great post and uplifting info!

MGD,

 

The only negative press that I new about was when the union workers picketed.  I don't remember the news story to mention much about the issues we have discussed.

 

 

I have seen what appear to be finished units when I have driven past at night. 

  Also, about WoolyBear's post...do you think the negative press has gone far beyond our little musings here on UrbanOhio? 

 

Well, I know the whole union thing and the parking garage fiasco were in the paper. Also, I am sure that some of the people who bought their units in July 2004, are a little pissed that it is now January 2006, and they still have not moved into to their $300K+ condo. However, if the building is a wonderful as it sounds I am sure that as soon as more people tour the building that the remaining condo's will sell out quickly. I just can't wait to see whats next for the WHD.

i think the new elevator addition looks and seems to work out a-ok, a construction delay sure, but what looks like a good "build around" compromise!

As promised, here are the pics from my tour on Friday

 

The now-notorious elevator entrance!

 

The third-floor lobby.  The desk will be staffed by a concierge 24 hours.

 

Another look of the lobby, towards the lake.

 

The main elevators, just to the right of the front desk.  Funky chandeliers, eh?

 

The kitchen/dining area of a nearly-finished unit on the 10th floor (I think).

 

Sitting area.

 

Another view of the kitchen and dining area, from the sitting area.

 

A closer view of the kitchen. 

 

Master bathroom.

 

A media room in the same unit.

 

Here's the view from another unit on the same floor, this time on the west side.

 

Looking towards Lakewood.

 

Looking off the small balcony towards the lake.

 

The living room.

 

Very nice kitchen.

 

Here's another unit, a little higher up and with the framing going up.

 

The hallway on this floor.  The finished hallways are alright, a little sterile imo but certainly unoffensive.

 

Lebron's future pad...possibly.  Penthouse level, and where the salesman gave us the sheepish grin when we asked about King James.  Notice the second level, as well as the curve of the roof.

 

From Lebron's place.  Definitely a million-dollar view, even (especially?) if the foreground is soon occupied by Bob Stark's construction cranes!

 

Hopefully these pics help ya'll put some of the pieces together.  Once again, I was hugely impressed by the entire building and have no doubt that the units that are still available won't stay that way for long when people see the finished product.

 

Cheers!

 

 

Great job!  Very nice.

whoa very nice!  those balconies look really cool.  i like the wall of windows effect the place has, it really makes for a nice view from every angle. 

well done, well done!  This will definitely be unique to the Downtown Cleveland market for the near future...hopefully, sales will reflect the desireability of it and more mid-rise condo towers will start to pop up very soon!

Stunning! :clap:

We'll and great pictures! 

 

Luxury on the LAKE.  This would definitely make me take a third look at this building, although It's a little to late, since I want an Upper level Unit 1 or 5...oh well..ya snooze ya lose!  I wonder what the garden units will be like?

 

The views (of the gold coast, the lake & browns stadium) are great, but you gotta think...will they be there in a few years, with all the current/potential building, but that is the chance you take buying in a hot urban area.

 

This is definitely elegant upscale urban living - Cleveland has arrived!  :clap:  :clap:

 

Too me this building has set a new standard of true luxury/fine living in Cleveland.  How will, Stonebrige Phase 5, new east bank project and the Avenue District (since we know that the tAD manager post here) "one up" the pinnacle??  I'm eagerly awaiting!

We'll and great pictures! 

 

Luxury on the LAKE.  This would definitely make me take a third look at this building, although It's a little to late, since I want an Upper level Unit 1 or 5...oh well..ya snooze ya lose!  I wonder what the garden units will be like?

 

The views (of the gold coast, the lake & browns stadium) are great, but you gotta think...will they be there in a few years, with all the current/potential building, but that is the chance you take buying in a hot urban area.

 

This is definitely elegant upscale urban living - Cleveland has arrived!  :clap:  :clap:

 

Too me this building has set a new standard of true luxury/fine living in Cleveland.  How will, Stonebrige Phase 5, new east bank project and the Avenue District (since we know that the tAD manager post here) "one up" the pinnacle??  I'm eagerly awaiting!

From what I understand there are still penthouses available, maybe people have backed out? I have to say the views are really nice! it all depend on what you like though (city or lake) . 

I drive by this place everyday. From what I can tell on my seconds-long gaze, it appears to be filling up very slowly. I've seen more units with lights on. This week, I've noticed workers eating lunch on a balcony overlooking the lake. Little by little..

Im not a fan of the exterior but the inside of the unit is mad unique (compared to anything I've seen). I like the layout.

"From what I understand there are still penthouses available, maybe people have backed out?"

 

Going by their website (I know, they aren't set in stone), I'm seeing 6 penthouse units available, with the lowest at $761K. I would guess that once you hit that kind of price point, the frequency of buyers in that range is lower.

 

http://www.pinnacle701.com/pricing.htm

My Aunt and Uncle are thinking of down sizing and have looked at condos downtown.  My uncle saw the raw units 2 A/B - 5 A/B the mezz level is short, uneven layout and think the heating will be a b*tch.  My aunt wasn't fond of the balcony and its irregular shape, entry and access points.  The reconstruction to customize, would add to much to the cost of the condo for it to be a reasonable downgrade.

 

They both hated the entrance, but overall like the building.

 

MayDay is right, designer suites or penthouses in a in uber luxury property like the pinnacle, are usually targeted to a small percentage of people.

 

If management is smart they are renting out those units for photo shoots, marketing and special events to help cover carrying cost until the unit purchase is finalized.

One day...

after the kids are grown...

one day...

 

You sound like a typial parent.  First you say, you can't wait until we move out, then when we prepare to move out you question why.