PHILADELPHIA | American Commerce Center | 1,510' Pinnacle / 1,210' Roof | 63 FLOORS

[SJPhillyBoy]

A dated article from The Bulletin???

http://www.thebulletin.us/site/index.cfm?newsid=19851216&BRD=2737&PAG=461&dept_id=576361&rfi=8

07/15/2008
Reimagining The Skyline
By: Erin Maguire , The Bulletin

Tall buildings are Gene Kohn's specialty. And if the proposed 1500-foot American Commerce Center is built at 18th and Arch streets, his preference for buildings that pierce the clouds will dramatically change Philadelphia's skyline.

Mr. Kohn was born in the city whose skyline he hopes to change. He aspired to be a sportscaster as a child, but was dissuaded by his parents, who "didn't think that being a radio announcer was that distinguished a career," he said. Trained instead in the design of modern buildings at the University of Pennsylvania, Mr. Kohn and his firm, Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) have changed the skylines of cities worldwide.

Since its inception, KPF has made its mark in over 35 countries. Currently, construction is underway for two KPF-designed, sky-stabbing giants in Shanghai and Hong Kong, soon to be the world's tallest buildings. The 1,588-square-foot Shanghai World Financial Center will open this year, and the 1,612-square-foot International Commerce Center in Hong Kong is scheduled for completion 2010.

KPF has already altered the skyline of Philadelphia. In the 1980s, KPF designed Mellon Bank Center, originally slated to be as tall as One Liberty Place, as well as Two Logan Square, One Logan Square and its adjacent Four Seasons Hotel. KPF recently designed the US Airways terminal at the Philadelphia International Airport, and Huntsman Hall, at the Wharton School of Business.

Of the American Commerce Center project, Charles Madden, the world-renowned sculptor and a longtime friend of Mr. Kohn, said, "It will be nothing but the most spectacular thing in Philadelphia. It will be a world-class destination."

If Philadelphia approves the project - the brainchild of Garrett Miller, president of Walnut Street Capital - it will not only be the tallest building in Philadelphia, but one of the tallest in the nation. To put its 1,500-foot height in perspective, the Empire State Building is 1,250-feet-high and the World Trade Center towers were 1,362- and 1,368-feet-high each.

Mr. Kohn said he sees the American Commerce Center as a combination of retail, hotel and office spaces - a model already popular in Asia.

"It's the way to go," Mr. Kohn said. "It makes the community of the building more exciting and establishes a sense of security, with people being awake around the clock."

The only Philadelphia building with a similar model is One Logan Square, which has a hotel and office space, but no retail. If the American Commerce Center is constructed, it will include a 26-story hotel, a garden accessible to hotel guests, three to six stories of street-accessible retail along Arch Street, and a 63 stories of office space. All parking, including for bicycles, will be underground.

The top of Mr. Kohn's plans for the American Commerce Center would include a spire pointing to the Parkway, "an important, welcoming gesture," he said, that will "pay homage and respect that aspect of the city." Mr. Kohn said he hopes that if the building is constructed, it will enhance the city and contribute to a "truly exciting downtown that doesn't need New York or D.C. to help it," he said.

Despite the journalistic aspirations of his youth, Mr. Kohn always nurtured an interest in art.

"I loved to paint and play the piano back then," Mr. Kohn said of his school days. "I had that creative side and when I got accepted to Penn, I met with the dean and he suggested that I study architecture. He felt that even if I didn't become an architect that the education was so good that with my creative skills I could find a career."

Upon graduating, Mr. Kohn joined the Navy in 1953, where he put his architectural and artistic skills to use. Mr. Kohn was commissioned to rebuild the senior U.S. Navy officers club at Port Leautey, Morocco, where he was stationed.

"I had to design it, get it built, I actually did all the paintings, because I loved watercolor, in two weeks," Mr. Kohn said.

After his service ended, Mr. Kohn returned to Penn and earned his master's degree, and then worked in Philadelphia for the Redevelopment Authority. He then worked with Nolen & Swinburne, and ultimately with the city's largest firm, Vincent Kling and Associates.

"[Kling] knew how to make people happy. I learned a great deal working there and I gained a great deal of confidence ... I won two national [American Institute of Architects] awards," Mr. Kohn said.

In the 1960s, Mr. Kohn moved to New York, where he thought it was "easiest to succeed" in the architecture business.

After a two-year stint at Welton Becket Associates, Mr. Kohn joined John Carl Warnecke and Associates to build its New York office, and became its president and partner. Most importantly, he established a relationship with his future partner, William Pedersen. Sheldon Fox, Mr. Kohn's other partner, joined him at JCW.

When Mr. Kohn founded KPF in 1976, his parents thought he was "absolutely crazy." At the time, only 60 percent of architects were employed. Through research, Mr. Kohn realized that "a lot of great firms started in depressions or recessions and obviously started at the bottom."

"It's a good time to talk to clients; they have no work; they have plenty of time, they give you advice," he said.

After founding the firm, Mr. Kohn read in The New York Times that ABC had bought an armory on 66th Street, off Central Park West, where they had plans for a soap opera studio.

"We were the only ones interviewed, so it's lucky we won, because it would be embarrassing to lose with no other competition," Mr. Kohn said of the firm's first big break.

That job opened the door for the 14 projects KPF completed for ABC over a decade.

"If you are not global by 1990, half of you will be out of business, " Mr. Kohn told an Urban Land Institute Conference in 1985.

At that time, KPF became an international enterprise, designing in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and elsewhere.

Charles Madden remembers meeting Mr. Kohn when he proposed his designs for the structures adorning Logan Circle. Mr. Madden was then the commissioner of art and architecture in Philadelphia. In that meeting, Mr. Madden said he was "struck" by Mr. Kohn's "humility and wisdom."

Mr. Madden said of Mr. Kohn's architectural contributions, "he is one the greatest architects Philadelphia has ever had, and of all time. He's one of the top three or four architects in the world."

Though Mr. Kohn founded KPF, the firm's success cannot be attributed to just him.

On the team for the American Commerce Center are: A. Eugene Kohn, KPF's managing partner, William Louie, design partner, Lloyd Sigal, senior associate and project manager, and Lei Li, project designer.

While KPF has worked all over the world, designing for Philadelphia strikes a special chord with Mr. Kohn's past.

"To contribute to the city where I grew up in is exciting. I've worked in a lot of cities around the world, but it's special to come back here," he said.

Erin Maguire can be reached at emaguire@thebulletin.us

[SJPhillyBoy]

I think this building will be built, but it will probable take a minimum of two years before construction starts. This is just my opinion.

Some renderings from Logan Square Neighbors for the ACC website to further wet our appetite (many already previously posted).
photos courtesy: http://lsn4acc.com/Renderings.php

http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/1800_Arch_Skyline_Postcard_kpf.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/2_1800_Arch_Nightview_Postcard_kpf.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/3_1800_Arch_Arch_Street_kpf.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/4_acc5.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/5Hotel_Plaza_and_Public_Green_Space.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/6_Public_Green_Space_from_South.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/7_Public_Green_Space_from_North.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/8_Sterling_View_Public_Green_Space.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/View_after_18th.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/View_after_Arch.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/View_after_Arch_and_18th.jpg


http://lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/View_after_for_19th_Street.jpg

[skellergroup]

God I hope this gets built.

[NYC4Life]

Amazing renders. This is one tower that should be built.

[BigDan35]

WOW! I hooooooopppppeeeeee the American Commerce Center gets built! Please!!!

[CHAPINM1]

Not only will this be another great addition and keep the United States competitive in the highrise race, but it will also be a great economic boost to the city of Philly!

[LittleMike]

oh man that's good stuff

[NYC4Life]

Not only will this be another great addition and keep the United States competitive in the highrise race, but it will also be a great economic boost to the city of Philly!


Competitive, but not close in terms of height.

[Jes44]

This project along with Cira Center II would be tremendous for Philly's Skyline. I cant believe people would be opposed to this project, this would make Philadelphians proud of something like this in their own backyard. I cant say I remember hearing opposition from these NIMBY groups when Comcast was trying to build its corporate tower. Am I correct? Isnt their supposed to be a new Philadelphia Planning Commission meeting coming up shortly for this soon since it was postponed the last meeting?

[gttx]

I still can't figure out how the spire fits into the design...it looks like a 3 year-old designed it.

The rest of the building looks fantastic, though, and I'd love to see it get built!

[Ninjawho]

For the one millionth time...this is just the preliminary design...the spire, outside facade, all that stuff will be work in better once this thing is farther along in the design process. This is just a massing in...general proportions and what not...

[Don098]

For the one millionth time...this is just the preliminary design...the spire, outside facade, all that stuff will be work in better once this thing is farther along in the design process. This is just a massing in...general proportions and what not...

You're correct, and apparently there are new renderings out there.... ????? :angel:

The DOW closing down 6.98% today (highest single-day total point drop in U.S. history but at least not in the top ten percentage-wise) is going to freeze the credit market even more, so I think this project has lost a lot of ground for now. In the end, though, I think it's going to benefit the whole process of this development, i.e. more time for design tweaks and finding safe tenants. Securing funding, however, is going to take an extremely long time. I do worry that more time also gives the NIMBYs more time to build up a movement. We have to respond, so whenever anyone hears about this elusive phantom PPC meeting, please let us know :-) !

[bucks native]

from here: http://philadelphia.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2008/10/06/story14.html



Possible Glaxo move might be a boon for tower project

Philadelphia Business Journal - by Natalie Kostelni Staff Writer

GlaxoSmithKline, the pharmaceutical company that has a U.S. headquarters at One Franklin Plaza in Center City, is about to be in play as an office tenant, a situation that could kick off a new downtown building.

While the company could stay where it is at One and Three Franklin Plaza overlooking the Vine Street Expressway, it will likely seek roughly 900,000 square feet of space in a building that has yet to be built, according to several people familiar with the company’s real estate situation.

As the office market is now, there’s no room at any existing buildings that could accommodate a major tenant, and there are few existing major tenants who have leases expiring in the near term that could prompt a building to be constructed.

There are fewer than a handful of sites downtown that would work for a tenant of the scale and size of GSK. The contenders are: American Commerce Center, a proposed mixed-use building at 18th and Arch streets that would rise as the tallest skyscraper in the United States; a site that Liberty Property Trust owns at 15th and Cherry streets that could accommodate upwards of a million square feet; a parcel owned by Realen Properties at 16th and Vine streets; and even Brandywine Realty Trust’s Cira South project, though negotiations to secure BlackRock Group as the lead tenant there are ongoing. Or it could stay where it is.

The pharmaceutical company leases about 650,000 square feet at One Franklin Plaza from HRPT Properties Trust. That lease expires in 2013. It leases another 220,000 square feet at Three Franklin Plaza from Liberty Property, which constructed the building in 2000 for GSK. That lease expires in 2014 and that building can be expanded upward by 220,000 square feet.

By some accounts, the proposed American Commerce Center is one of the lead options. The building, which would total 2.2 million square feet and reach 1,500 feet into the sky, would allow GSK to consolidate into a single building and provide it room to grow. The company has 1,800 employees downtown. It would also give the company fresh space not too far from its current headquarters that, with the building’s other components, including a hotel and retail, would help attract and retain employees and provide a convenient place for corporate visitors and clients to stay.

The developer of American Commerce Center, Hill International Real Estate Partners, is also seeking to extend the underground commuter rail concourse to the building.

The building is deep into the city’s planning and approval process, which may work for Glaxo’s timeframe to make a decision before its leases expire and get the building out of the ground, according to industry sources.

Such a gargantuan lease would mean a great deal for American Commerce and its developer. At one point, TD Banknorth was eying the building. A GSK lease would take up the majority of the tower’s 1.3 million square feet of office space and enable the developer to secure a construction loan, said a person with knowledge of the project. While it likely would not be able to get a loan from an American bank because of the credit crisis, foreign lenders have already shown an interest in the project, he said.

nkostelni@bizjournals.com | 215-238-5139

[andydie]

:previous: great news for Philly:tup: I am usally more the Chicago type but really would love to see this one rise as it is not your usual box but a very nicely designed building

[Ninjawho]

ZOMG...we're never going to get this thing built11!?111!!1!!!



like I SAID, while the NIMBYs might find a way to stall this thing, the current credit crunch doesn't necessarily mothball it. Yes, I know the GSC news is all just speculation at this point, but I really do think things are looking up for this project. I've felt good about it since it was first proposed and I still do. But who am I to say...just a poor art student.

[BigDan35]

ZOMG...we're never going to get this thing built11!?111!!1!!!



like I SAID, while the NIMBYs might find a way to stall this thing, the current credit crunch doesn't necessarily mothball it. Yes, I know the GSC news is all just speculation at this point, but I really do think things are looking up for this project. I've felt good about it since it was first proposed and I still do. But who am I to say...just a poor art student.

I share your excitement...but please do not jinx this project.

[ltsmotorsport]

Still not really a fan of the alternating glass and solid look of some of the facade. The '60s went down that road and ended up in Uglyville. Other that that, it's a great looking tower.

[SJPhillyBoy]

Rendering from Philadelphia Buisness Journal
http://philadelphia.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2008/10/06/story14.html
Courtesy: Kohn Pedersen Fox

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/207125-0-0-1.jpg

This building is definitely moving in the right direction. Very positive signs that companies (TD and GSK) are flirtng with using the ACC as an HQ.

[skellergroup]

Rendering from Philadelphia Buisness Journal
http://philadelphia.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2008/10/06/story14.html
Courtesy: Kohn Pedersen Fox

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/207125-0-0-1.jpg

This building is definitely moving in the right direction. Very positive signs that companies (TD and GSK) are flirtng with using the ACC as an HQ.


Nice image. I can see that GSK would want to expand here.

[Fabb]

The programme of this building seems ambitious. Something like a vertical city.

[Palms]

Why is the front face(best part) of this tower facing Mantua? Or better yet why is the back of this tower facing Center City.IN the grand scheme of things it probably no big deal but shouldnt This tower be spun around 180 degrees.



http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/207125-0-0-1.jpg

[Don098]

Why is the front face(best part) of this tower facing Mantua? Or better yet why is the back of this tower facing Center City.IN the grand scheme of things it probably no big deal but shouldnt This tower be spun around 180 degrees.

I don't agree...I think it should face the prettiest part of Philly which is to the NW no doubt. I think the skyline looks the best from the angle...Comcast looks stubby from the South Street bridge, the city looks narrow from NJ...etc. I think it's made to welcome Pennsylvania to Philadelphia, since most of the state is to the NW.

[kznyc2k]

Still not really a fan of the alternating glass and solid look of some of the facade. The '60s went down that road and ended up in Uglyville. Other that that, it's a great looking tower.

DITTO. That plus the garish colors of the panels reminds me of some 1960s housing project trying to inject some "fun" into the otherwise dreary architecture.

Plus, the spire as currently proposed is redunkulously awkward looking. Still, I like the tower's program, and its sky garden/plaza looks like an awesome place to spend some time.

[SeattleJim]

Rendering from Philadelphia Buisness Journal
http://philadelphia.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2008/10/06/story14.html
Courtesy: Kohn Pedersen Fox

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/207125-0-0-1.jpg

This building is definitely moving in the right direction. Very positive signs that companies (TD and GSK) are flirtng with using the ACC as an HQ.

Nice! I hope this building moves forward.

I thought Wachovia or Citizens Bank were rumored to be possible tenants(?) Given the current financial crisis I doubt that will happen.

[The A Train]

If only Comcast looked like it does in that render in real life. I'm pulling hard for ACC, if only to take the focus off of Comcast, which IMO is a black eye on the skyline (from the North and South. I really like it on the East and West.)

[buildup]

It would be so cool for Philly to have the tallest building in the U.S. even if it is only for a year or so before Freedom Tower and Chicago Spire were completed. But the ACC would have to break ground today for that possibility. Oh well.

[CGII]

It would be so cool for Philly to have the tallest building in the U.S. even if it is only for a year or so before Freedom Tower and Chicago Spire were completed. But the ACC would have to break ground today for that possibility. Oh well.

Heh, hate to be the spoilsport but uh, the tallest building would remain the Sears Tower in Chicago and also I think this building is not attractive at all. I mean, kudos to Philly for pulling off a 1000 footer proposal but I mean the top just looks awkward, like it should be more intricate but it's so basic and boring and corporate when there is so much more it could be doing. I think it's just trying too hard to be Cira Center.

[Don098]

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/207125-0-0-1.jpg

Swinefeld, is this the new render you were referencing?

[Swinefeld]

^ Yes. Sorry for the delay but here is a better resolution of the night shot was a few more for your viewing pleasure.

Images courtesy of Walnut Street Capital.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/ACC-JFKNightView.jpg http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/ACC-JFKDayViewByVisualhouse-1.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/ACC-Plaza.jpg

FYI, there will be a City Planning Commission meeting on the American Commerce Center on the 21st of October at 1:00. When I find out the location I'll let you all know.

[buildup]

Though it is just academic at this point anyway CGII but the Sears tower is 1,454' and the ACC is to be 1,510'. Spires count and antennas don't. Otherwise the Petronas Towers would not be considered taller than Sears.

[SJPhillyBoy]

This building is phantastic. Thanks for posting the new renderings Swinefeld!!

[slow-v6]

Wow.. I love it!!

[Wheelingman04]

I think it is going to be tough to get financing for this building with this damn ecomomy.

[tower]

the spire looks like a sword

[Wheelingman04]

What is the status on this tower?

[NYC4Life]

It's still just a proposal. If it ever gets built, it won't be for several years due to the current financial situation.

[Plompy Lfeata]

there are some rumors goinga around capus that this building is much closer to being built then the info we have on his forum shows us. is it possible we missed something? or are the rumors unfounded?

btw... GO PHILLIES!!!!

[Ninjawho]

there are some rumors goinga around capus that this building is much closer to being built then the info we have on his forum shows us. is it possible we missed something? or are the rumors unfounded?

btw... GO PHILLIES!!!!



Ugh....like from who?

[justremember]

there are some rumors goinga around capus that this building is much closer to being built then the info we have on his forum shows us. is it possible we missed something? or are the rumors unfounded?

btw... GO PHILLIES!!!!

Around Temple's campus? In general, or among architecture students?

[Bergenser]

It's a great looking, building, I hope it will be build some years from now,
in better financial times.

[skellergroup]

How will we put a miniature billy penn on top of this tower? Strap him on the spire perhaps?? :)

[skyscraper]

How will we put a miniature billy penn on top of this tower? Strap him on the spire perhaps?? :)

they did this on the comcast tower when they built it. I lost the link, but it was in yesterday's inquirer.

[Plompy Lfeata]

Around Temple's campus? In general, or among architecture students?

it was among architecture students which is why i gave it a thought. i wouldnt think they have inside info though, and since nothing has come up over the past couple days, i guess there was no truth behind it.

[flashflood]

Got some new renderings posted, including some interior shots, which I think are new.

LSN4ACC.COM (http://www.lsn4acc.com/Renderings.php)

[SeattleJim]

Ugh....like from who?

there are some rumors goinga around capus that this building is much closer to being built then the info we have on his forum shows us. is it possible we missed something? or are the rumors unfounded?

btw... GO PHILLIES!!!!

Not to pi** in your wheaties but I give this building an almost 0% chance of ever seeing the light of day. Granted a beautiful addition to the Philly skyline, but with the financial crisis and major companies starting to cut back where will the $$$ and tenants come from? The only possible savior is applying the same tax benefits that Cira Centre realized (KOZI?)

[Don098]

Not to pi** in your wheaties but I give this building an almost 0% chance of ever seeing the light of day. Granted a beautiful addition to the Philly skyline, but with the financial crisis and major companies starting to cut back where will the $$$ and tenants come from? The only possible savior is applying the same tax benefits that Cira Centre realized (KOZI?)

Maybe if you read any of the previous posts, you would have answers to all of your questions, and you would also have noticed that you're the one millionth person to give those kinds of odds. Man, I can't wait until the planning commission meeting so we can finally get some more REAL news.

[Swinefeld]

Maybe if you read any of the previous posts, you would have answers to all of your questions, and you would also have noticed that you're the one millionth person to give those kinds of odds. Man, I can't wait until the planning commission meeting so we can finally get some more REAL news.
I'll mention this again, the Planning Commission meeting has been rescheduled. I'll give the new date on Monday.

[SeattleJim]

Maybe if you read any of the previous posts, you would have answers to all of your questions, and you would also have noticed that you're the one millionth person to give those kinds of odds. Man, I can't wait until the planning commission meeting so we can finally get some more REAL news.

Unfortunately, I don't have the time nor interest to read all the previous posts.

[The A Train]

How will we put a miniature billy penn on top of this tower? Strap him on the spire perhaps?? :)

I've been thinking about this as well. The only solution is to name the building the William Penn Commerce Center.

Actually, they could hook up some kind of laser / hologram thingy to the spire so it projects William Penn's image high above the skyline.

[tranceclubbinphilly]

I've been thinking about this as well. The only solution is to name the building the William Penn Commerce Center.

Actually, they could hook up some kind of laser / hologram thingy to the spire so it projects William Penn's image high above the skyline.

I say we do this only if our little Billy Penn on top of Comcast works this year. We will find out soon right...

GO PHILLIES!!! :notacrook: :cheers: :notacrook:

[Orion1]

Not to rain on our parade, but wasn't the original gentlemen's agreement that no building would rise higher than the statue of Mr. Penn atop city hall? Well if the roof of Comcast Center is higher than the mini billy, what is the difference?:shrug:

Phils in 6.

[The A Train]

Not to rain on our parade, but wasn't the original gentlemen's agreement that no building would rise higher than the statue of Mr. Penn atop city hall? Well if the roof of Comcast Center is higher than the mini billy, what is the difference?:shrug:

Phils in 6.

Let's try not to think about the technicalities too much, m'kay?

[Kripke]

It matters because they put a very small statue of Billy Penn at the top of the Comcast tower. So, if the curse is true, then it should be broken because Billy Penn is again looking down on the rest of the skyline (even if he we can't see him).

Go Phills

[wanderer34]

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/ACC-Plaza.jpg

Philadelphia NEEDS a building like this, because if it's not built on time, we'll regret it, BIG TIME!!!

Besides, the revenue is needed for this city, and I'm praying that everyone in City Council, and the Commonwealth supports this project. It's time for Philly to wake up and stop roaming around in the dark ages!!!

[Philadelcago]

I didn't notice this on the renderings until I saw some hi-res versions, but it looks like there's some sort of steel wrapping that sits over the glass between each floor. So I guess this initial design is not a 'pure' glass curtain after all.

http://www.lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/0zzACC_JFK_Day_View.jpg

You can see it more prominently on the spire against the blue sky.

[Jes44]

I know that one of the potential companies that are interested in the ACC project is GSK. Is there any rumors to this or any updates? Also, is the state looking to offer KOZ for this project? I think this project would definitely put Philadelphia on the map for sure. I really hope it gets built. Hope also one day that Market Street East and Penn's Landing one day gets redeveloped as well once this credit crisis is over.

[theWatusi]

The 3 month GSK chart suggests they are not interested in building right now.

http://finance.google.com/finance?chdnp=0&chdd=1&chds=1&chdv=1&chvs=Linear&chdeh=0&chdet=1224878400000&chddm=25415&q=NYSE:GSK&ntsp=0

[skellergroup]

I didn't notice this on the renderings until I saw some hi-res versions, but it looks like there's some sort of steel wrapping that sits over the glass between each floor. So I guess this initial design is not a 'pure' glass curtain after all.

http://www.lsn4acc.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_fee56/0zzACC_JFK_Day_View.jpg

You can see it more prominently on the spire against the blue sky.



Great eye. Could be cool?

[zuelas]

Wow, that base is the ugliest thing I've seen awhile.

At least Philly won't get stuck w/that seeing as how this has very little chance of ever being built.

[GarCastle]

I think the design is one of the smartest concepts in years (for any city or any country). It has an outstanding retail presence which is exactly what should be there. The hotel has its own "identity" yet has an ultraconvenient multi-level bridge tied to the corporate tower. There are multiple green roofs which will be accessible for the tenants/hotelers.

Personally I think the crazy colors are bold and interesting. Even though I like them, it is unlikely that they would exactly stick with whatever their render is anyway so if you do not like the colors I would not worry about them.

/shrug

:goodnight:

[wanderer34]

Now that the Phillies won the World Series, and the Billy Penn curse is officially over, I say, LET"S BUILD THE DAMN THING!!!!

[shakman]

...and whatever his name is locked up.

[Ninjawho]

Actually he's not locked up yet...the trial is ongoing as we speak...

[skyscraper]

...and whatever his name is locked up.

vince fumo.

[SSBMEXPERT]

So, whatever happened to the City Planning Commission meeting on this? Has the new date been set?

[Plokoon11]

Since the financial mess, a lot of big projects have been on hold, over looked and things of that nature.

[We Got Five]

Within 2 weeks of the GSK rumor, they go ahead and decide to strip Philly of it's HQ. This is not good gang. We're losing business...how do we expect to build or grow the sector?

[skellergroup]

The GSK thing is tough.

Man... I hope the economy turns soon because this building needs to get built and it won't have any momentum in this city/country situation right now.

[Don098]

Perhaps the silver lining is that there is plenty of time to grow a supportive coalition while the NIMBYs forget all about it? Also, perhaps this allows for the design to be tweaked? :-) These credit markets can't remain frozen forever, so what's the danger in a little patience? Do developers have a window in which they absolutely must build something? Also, what do construction material costs look like now?

[Swinefeld]

Important notice!

A new Philadelphia Planning Commission meeting for the ACC Tower is set for Tuesday, November 18th at 1:00 PM. The location is set for the 18th Floor at 1515 Arch Street but that will most likely be moved to a larger location, possibly the Academy of Natural Sciences. I'll post more details when the information becomes available.

Make your voices heard. Please save the date and try to attend. Philly skyscraper fans, this is our World Series!

[CHAPINM1]

I'm not a resident, however if I were in Philly tomorrow I'd sure as hell go! So for those who can PLEASE DO!!!

[Swinefeld]

I just got this message from Garrett Miller. Please read carefully:

Dear friends:

I need your help in spreading the word about the American Commerce Center Planning Commission Hearing scheduled for next Tuesday at 1:00 PM at 1515 Arch Street (NW Corner of 16th and Arch Streets) on the 18th Floor. The PCPC will be voting on the future of the American Commerce Center, the 1,510’ iconic addition that I have been working tirelessly to bring to Philadelphia’s skyline. The hearing begins at 1:00 PM and is expected to draw a large crowd so I would encourage you to get there early. By 12:15 PM at the latest. The room was standing room only last time.

Also, it’s important to let our public officials know about the opinions of the constituents. I would sincerely appreciate you emailing:

Mayor Michael Nutter – mocop@phila.gov
Deputy Mayor Andrew Altman - andrew.altman@phila.gov
Councilman Darrell Clarke – Darrell.clarke@phila.gov

And letting them know that you support the development of the American Commerce Center. A simple email saying that you support the project and want to see Philadelphia grow and join the ranks of America’s great cities with architecture to match by supporting the development of the American Commerce Center. You can email all three of them at the same time.

For those of you that prefer to Cut and Paste:

November 12, 2008

Mayor Michael Nutter
Deputy Mayor Andrew Altman
Honorable Darrell Clarke

RE: Support for the American Commerce Center

Dear Mayor Nutter, Deputy Mayor Altman and Councilman Clarke:

I am writing to you to express my support for the project currently proposed for the surface parking lot located at 18th and Arch Street known as the American Commerce Center. ACC is the right type of development for Philadelphia. Its design and plan will help to put Philadelphia on the map as home to not only the beautiful and historical architecture throughout our city but also the cutting edge designs of tomorrow. The innovative project sets the bar for quality design and sustainable, LEED certified development. This building will become an icon for Philadelphia and represents Philadelphia’s chance to break from the pack of American Cities and step to the forefront as America’s Great City.

Please support the project and do all you can to bring it to fruition!

Sincerely,

Garrett

[Swinefeld]

I think this is a new rendering. Take a gander.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/DayViewACC.jpg

[Don098]

Now how can anyone be against THAT? Just look at that glass elevator!!!

[Johnland]

I'll email in favor of it just on its street level merits alone. That is a beautiful design from the sidewalk up. It just has to happen.

[Plokoon11]

Now if ACC was built, I believe it would stand as the best night life, and place to be at with people. Just the pure scale, gardens, colors the vibe to it. This would add another tourist spot to the city. Most recent being Comcast's large Screen, and next door ACC's plaza with wonderful views.

[Late1]

Thanks for the info, Swiney! Someone (or several someones) who's able to make it to the hearing next Tuesday, please press the ACC folks to include a PUBLIC OBSERVATION DECK.

A development of this scale demands it; it would bring more tourists (and residents) to this part of the city, especially during later hours when the neighborhood really needs it - and that means a higher profile for the development AND a safer neighborbood. Win-win, even for the rancid NIMBYs of Kennedy House :)

[Don098]

Now if ACC was built, I believe it would stand as the best night life, and place to be at with people. Just the pure scale, gardens, colors the vibe to it. This would add another tourist spot to the city. Most recent being Comcast's large Screen, and next door ACC's plaza with wonderful views.

If someone knows the architect, I have an idea about nightlife at the ACC...

[Orion1]

Thanks for the info, Swiney! Someone (or several someones) who's able to make it to the hearing next Tuesday, please press the ACC folks to include a PUBLIC OBSERVATION DECK.

A development of this scale demands it; it would bring more tourists (and residents) to this part of the city, especially during later hours when the neighborhood really needs it - and that means a higher profile for the development AND a safer neighborbood. Win-win, even for the rancid NIMBYs of Kennedy House :)

Not a bad idea!
Regarding the hearing... I will be there. This is so important that I am requesting the day off just to attend. Hopefully the hearing will not be canceled. Let's pack it to the rafters!

[NYC2ATX]

DAMMMMNNNNN!! See, now I want them to build this just for the sheer fact that it's just such a COOL building.

[tranceclubbinphilly]

I think this is a new rendering. Take a gander.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/DayViewACC.jpg

Can i just say WOW!!! It's like i saw the bottom of this thing for the first time again. I actually almost thought that glass elevator was a waterfall until I took a closer look.

[tranceclubbinphilly]

Guys I got this when I e-mailed them:

This is an automatically generated Delivery Status Notification

Delivery to the following recipient failed permanently:

mocop@phila.gov

Technical details of permanent failure:
Google tried to deliver your message, but it was rejected by the recipient domain. We recommend contacting the other email provider for further information about the cause of this error. The error that the other server returned was: 550 550 No such user - psmtp (state 14)

[Swinefeld]

Please submit your messages to this address:

Michael.nutter@phila.gov

[skyscraper]

the empire state building, chrysler building, psfs building, golden gate bridge, and bay bridge were all monumental structures built during bad financial times. labor was cheaper due to all the unemployment, and the developers could spend more on good design. the same could happen with this building: even though the unions are stronger now than they were in the 1930s, in order to create some short term construction jobs, they will have to accept some lower wages to get this and other projects built. then, when the economy recovers and businesses want to locate or expand here, we will be able to accommodate them, as well as having more hotel space.

[Swinefeld]

Here are some the latest renderings.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCJFKDayLookingWest.jpg http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCJFKNightLookingWest.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCLobby-WelcometoACC.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCSkylineDay.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCStreetPlaza.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ActiveRetailSpaces-ViewfromArchStre.jpg

[hammersklavier]

Droooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooool...:slob:

I especially like the day/night set. The juxtaposition with Sterling House is...amazing, to say the least.

[Swinefeld]

MORE!!!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCUrbanRoomComp.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACCConcourseComp.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACC19thArchStre3FB307.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACC18thArchStre3FB303.jpg

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/Swinefeld/New%20Constructon/ACC18thArchStre3FB301.jpg

[winxs]

I am kinda digging that big brick wall in the sky that the 6th floor park is sitting on. It makes it sort of look like a big modern glass building grew out of, and is enveloping, an old brick warehouse. Nice touch.

[CentralGrad258]

Wowie woowa!!! Sexy time explosion!!!
This building is amazing, it's almost hard to believe it has an actual chance of being built in Philadelphia. Just incredible :slob:

[Plokoon11]

This seriously needs to be built!

[M II A II R II K]

That's pretty cool!

[theWatusi]

If this gets built along with CCII, there would be some serious density in this area.

[Wheelingman04]

I truly hope it gets built.

[Jes44]

Would someone be kind enough to add the proposed Waldoraf astoria to the picture, which is supposed to be 58 stories on I believe 14th and Chestnut? Its a pretty phenomenal looking structure.

[cubanChris]

this city begs for a contemporary space, i'd venture to say this is it.

[winxs]

Would someone be kind enough to add the proposed Waldoraf astoria to the picture, which is supposed to be 58 stories on I believe 14th and Chestnut? Its a pretty phenomenal looking structure.

Jes44, which picture are you talking about? The Waldorf=Astoria will be at occupying the north-east corner of 15th and Chestnut (just behind the Residences at the Ritz.) There is a thread for it here (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=160185).

[skellergroup]

Please god let this happen.

[SJPhillyBoy]

W:bowtie:W !!!!!!!!

This building gets more amazing by the minute. I have a feeling it is going to happen.

[BigDan35]

I am soo in love with this building. But I have a question for you guys:

Quite a few people have said for one reason or another that they "have a feeling this actually will be built" my question is why? What factors are giving you this feeling that this will actually happen?

Some people were saying just for the sole purpose of Philly winning the world series that this had a hell of a good chance of being built. Is this true? Does winning the world series actually help something like this? I know the Chicago Spire is on hold now because of the economy...

I just hope this gets built.

[Don098]

For those of you that visit PhillySkyline.com regularly, I apologize in advance. For everyone else, I thought this opening paragraph of Brad's story on the ACC today was appropriate to share:

"Garrett Miller is undeterred by the staggering economy. The new president of Hill International Real Estate Partners, who is now overseeing the development of his brainchild American Commerce Center, has a background in finance and says, matter-of-factly, 'the development cycle is long for a building of this size -- 6 to 8 years, sometimes.'

...

"Since its announcement in March, ACC has already evolved to include more public space, a LEED gold certification (having already been registered with the US Green Building Council), a connection to the Suburban Station concourse which currently terminates at Comcast Center, and a much-hoped-for observation deck."

:cheers: !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:cheers:

You can read more of it here: http://phillyskyline.com/ Just scroll down to 12 November 2008 if you stumble across this post after today.