PHILADELPHIA | The Murano | 475 FT / 145 M | 42 FLOORS

[Ronald Reagan]

I will be closing on a large 1 bedroom 1.5 bath unit on the 12th floor later this month. I will post pictures of the unit, views and lobby shortly.

As for retail, I am not keen on a restaurant or food related tenant. I fear an eventual rat / roach problem. Also there is a potential issue of loitering. I like the high end retail idea. From what I understand the developers have flatly ruled out any food or food related tenant. That is good news.

Besides, With a Trader Joes next door and a Mortons and Capo Giro due up 1 block or so east other high end foodies are bound to come!

[detmi7mile]

Looks like a great place to live.

[caynkaren]

My husband and I purchased a unit in November of 2005 (the curved glass unit on the north west side). Finally, after all this waiting, settlement will be 08-08-08 (what a date!). We visited our own unit back on June 5, and based on the state of the lobby, the amenities floor, etc, I couldn't believe they would move people in on June 18...But they did it, and while we were there again this past saturday, the lobby and the amenties floor looks great! It's finished and cleaned-up and I couldn't believe it. We cannot wait to move in.

I have great pictures of the views from our unit I took back in june, but do not know how to post them on the site. Perhaps someone could advise.

I have rarely commented on this site, but have been reading and looking at the pictures. I want to say thanks to all of you for the commentaries and pictures over the past couple of years. It kept this idea real while we've been waiting (and waiting and waiting...).

[winxs]

I have great pictures of the views from our unit I took back in june, but do not know how to post them on the site. Perhaps someone could advise.



caynkaren, you need to upload your pics to a photo hosting service, such as Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/) or Photobucket (http://photobucket.com/). Once your photograph has a url, you can then paste the url's into your replies and your pictures will display in the thread.

Good luck (and I can't wait to see your views!)

[Ltrain]

Or you can email them to the email address I pm'ed you, and I'll host them for ya. :)

[Swinefeld]

My husband and I purchased a unit in November of 2005 (the curved glass unit on the north west side). Finally, after all this waiting, settlement will be 08-08-08 (what a date!).
The number 8 is good luck in China. :worship: :worship: :worship:

[rricci]

Quote from ronald regan
Besides, With a Trader Joes next door and a Mortons and Capo Giro due up 1 block or so east other high end foodies are bound to come!

Are these proposals for real? It would be great to have either in this neighborhood.

[cubanChris]

Quote from ronald regan
Besides, With a Trader Joes next door and a Mortons and Capo Giro due up 1 block or so east other high end foodies are bound to come!

Are these proposals for real? It would be great to have either in this neighborhood.

I read about those a little while back as well. Certainly a nice step up in neighbors and client el from what has been on that end of market for ages :)

If they could somehow get someone to take over and do something/anything with that porn strip just across the street (well close to anyway) that is an ugly scar in an otherwise much improved wing of center city (no offense to any patrons of those fine establishments :D )

[16520Man]

I took 160 walk through pics; here are 22. In retrospect, I should have used a wider angle lens.

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200801.jpg

The best lobby shot I got:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200802.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200803.jpg

Entering residence 01 on the 18th floor (north view):
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200804.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200805.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200806.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200807.jpg

View from the patio:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200808.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200810.jpg

This is the view from residence 02, 18th floor; Cira beauty balances out PECO ugly:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200811.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200812.jpg

Back to residence 01:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200813.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200814.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200815.jpg

View from the bedroom:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200816.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200817.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200818.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200819.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200820.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200821.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200822.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200823.jpg

[tjh1]

^^^Very posh!

[alasi]

I hope Cira South and Drexel hurry up with their developments, it will make the views even better.

[russbaseball]

awesome photos. looks great.

[cubanChris]

I hope Cira South and Drexel hurry up with their developments, it will make the views even better.

ditto. Those windows are amazing!

[theWatusi]

very nice. makes me want to get a unit for myself.

[SJPhillyBoy]

Great photos, thanks for sharing.

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m233/kvoigtiv/Murano07-01-200803.jpg

Funny...this must be the new style for lobbies nowadays. It has very similar features to the Comcast Center lobby. Similar shade of wood rectangular panels with the same shape and the "guard desk" is also oval in the same shape as the Comcast Center lobby. Only difference with the wood panels in Comcast is that they "come alive" as a large portion of the one wall is the gigantic video screen.


Along with Comcast Center, this is a really nice building. Philadelphia is getting a super classy generation of skyscrapers.

[3rd&Brown]

The only thing I don't get is that weird flouescent fixture in the kitchen. You would think they'd have subtle recessed lights throughout.

Otherwise, it looks great. I'm jealous.

[bryson662001]

The only thing I don't get is that weird flouescent fixture in the kitchen. You would think they'd have subtle recessed lights throughout.

Otherwise, it looks great. I'm jealous.
Actually I would rethink that whole kitchen......looks a little spartin. Love the window walls however.

[Don098]

Does anyone else think the bathroom cabinets/faucets look a little cheap? Hell I suppose if you have millions of dollars to throw around on a condo you can afford to change anything. Not like I wouldn't live there though haha.

[Austinlee]

Does anyone else think the bathroom cabinets/faucets look a little cheap? Hell I suppose if you have millions of dollars to throw around on a condo you can afford to change anything. Not like I wouldn't live there though haha.

It's the cabinets. Look at the countertops and fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom; They're all fine. But the style of cabinet and the small amount of them feels kinda cheap I think.

But the lobby is cool. And the units look good otherwise. IMO.

[CondoGuru]

Wow, who needs enemies with friends like you??? haha The guy posts pics of his new home and the response is it looks "cheap"? Yikes, classy bunch you are.

[Pinoy2.0]

i think it looks absolutely great, especially the kitchen. the floor to ceiling windows are gorgeous!

[Don098]

Wow, who needs enemies with friends like you??? haha The guy posts pics of his new home and the response is it looks "cheap"? Yikes, classy bunch you are.

Selective reading seems to be a spreading ailment throughout the Philly threads lately. Condo, I ask that you please a) re-read my post, as well as the others that framed their mild criticism within the umbrella of overall positive support and b) please refrain from making these kinds of self-righteous remarks in the future, especially in the context of a forum which only allows the shallowest of insights to be made into the overall character of person.

[Joey D]

Midrise? How elitist towards any smaller cities.I sorta resent that.

[theWatusi]

I like the patio with all the tables and chairs to mingle with the neighbors.

[winxs]

The only thing I don't get is that weird flouescent fixture in the kitchen. You would think they'd have subtle recessed lights throughout.

Otherwise, it looks great. I'm jealous.

Actually, the light fixture might look pretty cool once it is mounted and not just laying on the island's countertop. I agree though, it isn't exactly a "cook's kitchen", but with all of the restaurant choices around there, who needs to cook elaborate dinners. :frog:

We can't see the entire back side of the island. I do see the dishwasher is there. Does it also have space for any other built in appliances like a wine chiller, or a warming drawer?

[rricci]

I typically dislike posts like this one I'm making as I prefer reading juicy and/or newsy ones as opposed to opinions/comments, but I've wanted to say this for a couple days so... I think the Murano interior looks awesome and I would move there in a heartbeat if I could afford it. So thank you very much to the poster who put the interior pictures up. P.S. to poster, You can see my apartment in your view. Hoping you much happiness in your beautiful new home.

[Philly-Drew]

CondoGuru, Some people on this thread are always trashing WaterFront Square with no regard to how the people that live there feel. What's the difference?

[BuildItUp]

Wow, who needs enemies with friends like you??? haha The guy posts pics of his new home and the response is it looks "cheap"? Yikes, classy bunch you are.

I wouldn't let that kind of comments bother me, if I am an owner of the unit. The commenter can only dream of living there, so it does not matter :) . I do appreciate the owner for sharing their beautiful pictures and views for most of who can not afford to live there.

[PhillyRising]

I think the interior of that unit was very nice. The kitchen is small but I don't expect the average owner in the building to be cooking at home every night. One of my best friends has a huge kitchen in his condo in CC and he may as well turn it into a third bedroom for all the use it gets.......

[sciguy0504]

I have my few quibbles but it looks great...I would move there in a heartbeat. Thanks for posting the photos! There are a number of listings on Craig's List for renting.

[3rd&Brown]

My comment wasn't intended to be devisive in anyway. I think the building is awesome and the unit looked great. If anything, I thought my comment was meant to highlight one detail that seemed to have slipped through the cracks.

To be honest, I imagine most people who live in the units will move in and make further changes anyway. And, I think the kitchens are more than adequate - size wise.

Are the sidewalks open yet?

[pentopaper50]

My comment wasn't intended to be devisive in anyway. I think the building is awesome and the unit looked great. If anything, I thought my comment was meant to highlight one detail that seemed to have slipped through the cracks.

To be honest, I imagine most people who live in the units will move in and make further changes anyway. And, I think the kitchens are more than adequate - size wise.

Are the sidewalks open yet?

The kitchen photo is a little misleading. The island is actually 10' long in the curved units -- that's huge!

[bryson662001]

Last week I finally got to tour the Murano and what a disappointment. It’s easy to see why Opus pulled the plug on their project at 19th and Market if this is the best a developer can do to create mid-priced high-rise housing in this town. Yes the window walls and the views from upper floors are spectacular and will distract the eye from the rest of the buildings shortcomings for awhile. However it is clear that the developer didn’t spend one extra dime on this project beyond what was absolutely necessary and still has to charge $500 plus per square foot. That doesn’t even include the $40-60,000 for a spot in the garage. It is also easy to see how Symphony House, which for all it’s ugliness is a palace compared to the Murano, can get away with charging $600,000. for the same 800 sq ft unit that the Murano want’s 435,000. for. One is lavish luxury and the other is bare bones, not even up to the standards of most rental buildings that were finished just a few years ago. It is very discouraging for the prospect of any new high rise housing in center city. It also explains why the price of existing CC housing has held up so well, since it apparently can’t be replaced. BTW I have been through 98% of the coops and condos in center city, all of the older ones and most of the new ones that are completed so i am somthing of an expert. Also I apologize if I hurt anyone's feelings but I call them as I see them.

[Don098]

...so I guess we weren't off-base after all. I really was not impressed with the interior WHEN COMPARED TO THE ASKING PRICE. What a disconnect from it stunning exterior. Like I said, once you buy it, you can whatever you want to the interior, right? Or not?

[pentopaper50]

Last week I finally got to tour the Murano and what a disappointment. It’s easy to see why Opus pulled the plug on their project at 19th and Market if this is the best a developer can do to create mid-priced high-rise housing in this town. Yes the window walls and the views from upper floors are spectacular and will distract the eye from the rest of the buildings shortcomings for awhile. However it is clear that the developer didn’t spend one extra dime on this project beyond what was absolutely necessary and still has to charge $500 plus per square foot. That doesn’t even include the $40-60,000 for a spot in the garage. It is also easy to see how Symphony House, which for all it’s ugliness is a palace compared to the Murano, can get away with charging $600,000. for the same 800 sq ft unit that the Murano want’s 435,000. for. One is lavish luxury and the other is bare bones, not even up to the standards of most rental buildings that were finished just a few years ago. It is very discouraging for the prospect of any new high rise housing in center city. It also explains why the price of existing CC housing has held up so well, since it apparently can’t be replaced. BTW I have been through 98% of the coops and condos in center city, all of the older ones and most of the new ones that are completed so i am somthing of an expert. Also I apologize if I hurt anyone's feelings but I call them as I see them.

Could it be that you just are not a fan of modern design? I own and have owned properties in several cities, including Chicago, LA, NYC, and now Philly. Some are "lavish," in an old-school sense; others are sleek and chic. Murano stacks up pretty well. Turner did a great job as far as I can see given the style of the building. Lastly, after many years of investing, I've learned that the success with a new construction building is really about picking a first-rate structure, with great design, in a great location. Things like fancy cabinets, fixtures, etc., cost owners relatively little to add on later, if they choose to do that.

Also, it's a little unfair to compare a decked-out Symphony Place to Murano when Murano is still not quite done and people have barely started moving in.
In fact, I'd say that a lot of people rushed to judgment on Symphony Place before it was finished. It's actually a really nice addition to Broad St., and I think the people who bought there will see handsome returns when they sell.

Same goes for Murano, perhaps even more because it has greater upside potential given all the anticipated development around it and the convenient location.

Wait a few weeks until all the little details and final touches -- including landscaping, cleaning, outside lightening, etc. -- are done. Case in point: the lighting in the garage was just turned on for the first time today.

[bryson662001]

...so I guess we weren't off-base after all. I really was not impressed with the interior WHEN COMPARED TO THE ASKING PRICE. What a disconnect from it stunning exterior. Like I said, once you buy it, you can whatever you want to the interior, right? Or not?
True you can rip out the cheap cabinets and flimsy doors and cheap carpet and do all the decorating in your own unit but what do you do with the hallways and exterior doors that look like they are painted with a coat of grey primer and the cheap carpet out there and the bare lobby? And according to the sales people there are no plans to upgrade any of it except for some plants and art work in the lobby. I just hope the developer can afford to pay the maintanance on the unsold units because it sure looks like he was short on cash everywhere else.

[pentopaper50]

True you can rip out the cheap cabinets and flimsy doors and cheap carpet and do all the decorating in your own unit but what do you do with the hallways and exterior doors that look like they are painted with a coat of grey primer and the cheap carpet out there and the bare lobby? And according to the sales people there are no plans to upgrade any of it except for some plants and art work in the lobby. I just hope the developer can afford to pay the maintanance on the unsold units because it sure looks like he was short on cash everywhere else.

You're obviously entitled to your opinion, Bryson, but I encourage you to take a look at The St. James, AKA, 23 Condos, and even Comcast Center to gain a better appreciation for clean, modern, mimimalist design. Yes, Murano is not lavish like a Trump building or a classic Park Avenue/Rittenhouse Sq. home, but frankly, I prefer understated elegance over opulence. This doesn't mean that the materials used and furnishing are necessarily cheap. For instance, some of my friends who live in suburban Victorian houses would think that the furniture in the Murano show room or model apartments looks cheap. They would be surprised to hear that some of those Ligne Roset pieces cost considerably more than anything they own. It's just a matter of taste. Of course, not everything is subjective, and like every other developer, I'm sure Turner did look for inexpensive alternatives in a few areas to offset soaring costs in construction materials. Those hallway carpets you speak of, which weren't vacuumed the last time I checked because of all the ongoing construction in the building, could be an example. I'll wait for the building to be finished before passing judgement. Even the Trump condos on the West Side of Manhattan, along the Hudson, looked rather shabby when residents first started moving in but really came to life a few months later. It's amazing what can be accomplished with a few plants, some nice paintings, a couple of lamps, some accent lighting, etc.

[CondoGuru]

I have also seen close to 99% of the condos in Center City and this one is without a doubt, among the top. I happen to appreciate the architecture and construction much more than some finishes that will undoubtedly be replaced in the future. Everyone's eyes are drawn to different things. You can't change views, design, location, or construction quality...those are things that matter in the big picture. I had to pullout of my purchase in NoLibs because the developer cost-engineered the hell out of the project, replacing natural wood and zinc exteriors with black plaster and aluminum, Poggenpohl with Ikea cabinetry and no exterior venting...shameless. I was personally very impressed with the Murano overall and believe it will remain at the top of anyone's condo list for a very long time. It's not for everyone. But personally, I could never live in one of those dusty old coops like William Penn House, Kennedy House, etc. They were poorly designed and always will be. But that's just my opinion and not meant to offend anyone.

[bryson662001]

I will concede that the Murano has good bones and always will. It is just the finishs that are shoddy and some day they can be upgraded. The real point of my critique was that if this is the best a developer can offer.......and still has to charge that much for it, it's no wonder that the plug has been pulled on so many projects and the only things still under construction are super luxury, "money is no object" places. It just doesn't bode well for the future of residential construction in center city any time soon.

[CondoGuru]

Developers are obviously in business to make money, otherwise they wouldn't build. The distinction here, however, is that at the end of the day, regardless of what cabinetry, tile or doorknobs are inside which will undoubtedly evovle in the future for each owner's taste, the city is left with a stunning display of architecture that will always stand the test of time. That's the difference here. For some reason or another, other proposals just couldn't make it to reality for a plethora of reasons...wrong pricing, poor location, bad design, no marketing budget, etc. The Murano has been successful because it placed itself in the middle, not the top. Think about it. If that developer successfully completes the project and makes a handsome profit, they will be emboldened to build again in the future. It's a bigger picture. Personally, I'm glad not all the proposals made it because I don't think they were that special i.e. MarinaView, Parkway22, etc...except for Mandeville Pace (tear, tear).

[PhillyRising]

Not to interrupt the debate over the units...but I noticed nobody mentioned they finally turned on the 4 red lights for the FAA. They are rather bright. I'm wondering if the rest of the crown will be just a bright if it gets lit up.

[pentopaper50]

What's odd to me is how quiet and backward the Logan Square Neighborhood Association is when it comes to Market St. West. They put up all kinds of opposition to ground-level retail along the Murano garage (a huge loss for the area, IMO), but haven't said anything -- or nearly enough -- about those unusually resilient porn stores/theaters that taint what would otherwise be a vibrant residential and commericial area for Philadelphia. Some major rezoning is definitely called for. Darrell Clark, please listen up.

[bryson662001]

What's odd to me is how quiet and backward the Logan Square Neighborhood Association is when it comes to Market St. West. They put up all kinds of opposition to ground-level retail along the Murano garage (a huge loss for the area, IMO), but haven't said anything -- or nearly enough -- about those unusually resilient porn stores/theaters that taint what would otherwise be a vibrant residential and commericial area for Philadelphia. Some major rezoning is definitely called for. Darrell Clark, please listen up.
Since they are on the south side of Market St, wouldn't they be outside the limits of the LSNA? Maybe that is how they ended up there in the 1st place. I believe they are also outside of the CCD. I still find it hard to believe they do enough business to stay alive.

[drgoogle]

Thought I'd share some good news. I've found a very nice person to rent out my place for $2500. They've paid the security deposit so its a great day for me and the Murano!

Since they are on the south side of Market St, wouldn't they be outside the limits of the LSNA? Maybe that is how they ended up there in the 1st place. I believe they are also outside of the CCD. I still find it hard to believe they do enough business to stay alive.

[bryson662001]

Thought I'd share some good news. I've found a very nice person to rent out my place for $2500. They've paid the security deposit so its a great day for me and the Murano!
Are you talking about your unit at the Murano, and if so what size is it? Or do you mean your old place where you live now?

[drgoogle]

yeah my 1BR at the Murano. its one of the smaller units.

Are you talking about your unit at the Murano, and if so what size is it? Or do you mean your old place where you live now?

[pentopaper50]

yeah my 1BR at the Murano. its one of the smaller units.

Great job, Doc! I wish I had known -- I would have paid $2,501. ;-)

[bryson662001]

Great job, Doc! I wish I had known -- I would have paid $2,501. ;-)
I was going to say...... he must be from out of town to pay that much for one bedroom but hey.....congratulations. Murano will be competing with the St James for renters.

[drgoogle]

yeah, i think i got lucky. If i can repeat this 29 more times, I will have a free condo on my hands :)


I was going to say...... he must be from out of town to pay that much for one bedroom but hey.....congratulations. Murano will be competing with the St James for renters.

[CondoGuru]

That's impressive for a small unit Doc! What floor are you on?

[skellergroup]

any news on crown lighting? It is so dark at night.

[bryson662001]

any news on crown lighting? It is so dark at night.

........From a few pages back
To clarify a few items:

I have it on good authority that the parking garage will not be clad in any plantings or any other material other than what is currently installed. The garage is a naturally ventilated structure, so there are requirements for air flow in the openings. When the stainless steel screen was designed, it was coordinated with the parking garage architect to maintain the correct air flow percentages per code. The result of that study is what is installed. The intent of the screen is to breakup the overall mass of the garage while keeping the required ventilation requirements open. Not an easy task by any means.

Trees are required to be planted along Market, 21st and designed for the entry drive. There was no impact with the subway tunnel along Market. The tunnel is rather deep and further centered under Market Street, rather than the sidewalk.

There is no lighting at the top of the building. Never designed for this.

I have been watching this forum for the last 2+ years and am glad that everyone has a positive response to the design and execution.

[williamphilapa]

Few pics from today... 7_19_08

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/3550/philly075iy8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)



http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/6056/philly096dj0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)



http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/84/philly074ns2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)



http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/7940/philly098qd5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)



http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/4577/philly078sr6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[skellergroup]

........From a few pages back

Thanks. I've been out of the loop lately due to work.

[NYC2ATX]

Few pics from today... 7_19_08

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/3550/philly075iy8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

lmfao :haha: :haha: :haha: I thought this was a rendering at first glance.....I guess that's a good thing.

[Pinoy2.0]

unshure about paint but the crown will have back lighting

conflicting reports i guess on if it's going to be lit up or not. sparky was the electrician (?) union worker on the top

[slow-v6]

Wow.. I cant wait to see this in person this weekend..

[BSchnee]

conflicting reports i guess on if it's going to be lit up or not. sparky was the electrician (?) union worker on the top

a

[bryson662001]

That's impressive for a small unit Doc! What floor are you on?
I was just checking Craig's list and there are 37 mostly one bedrooms offered there for rent......all of them right around that $2500. price.

[pentopaper50]

I was just checking Craig's list and there are 37 mostly one bedrooms offered there for rent......all of them right around that $2500. price.

A lot of the postings are duplicates, but I'm encouraged by the initial asking prices. $2,500 for a one-bedroom should net a nice profit for units on the lower floors. I would expect the prices to go up considerably on the higher floors and bigger units, especially since the St. James is at capacity.

[williamphilapa]

Few shots of Murano in the skyline ....7_25_08

1)
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/7173/philly2062zq2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


2)
http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/4391/philly2038ak5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


3)
http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/8198/111eo3.png (http://imageshack.us)


4)
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/6609/philly2052fs2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[drgoogle]

yup there are lots lof listings but most are from the same 3 guys spamming CL. so how is the interior construction going? are the hallways starting to look nice? last i saw the hallways and floors still needed magor cleanup done while the ground floor retail section looked like a war zone.


A lot of the postings are duplicates, but I'm encouraged by the initial asking prices. $2,500 for a one-bedroom should net a nice profit for units on the lower floors. I would expect the prices to go up considerably on the higher floors and bigger units, especially since the St. James is at capacity.

[pentopaper50]

yup there are lots lof listings but most are from the same 3 guys spamming CL. so how is the interior construction going? are the hallways starting to look nice? last i saw the hallways and floors still needed magor cleanup done while the ground floor retail section looked like a war zone.

The hallwalls and retail area are still a long way away from being done. I think Turner's top priority is finishing all the units on the upper floors so people can move in. Overall, I think the developer did a fine job on the details -- they rushed a few things to get people moved in quickly, but they're now circling back and making the needed changes/touch-ups. The cool thing is that the building looks exactly as shown in the marketing web site or even better.

[bryson662001]

I was told by a saleslady/hostess that the hallway on the floor with the samples, was it 23?, is exactly how they will look. It had light grey paint on the doors, grey/green paint on the walls (looked like primer to me) and dark blue or was it green carpet. Of course she may have been out of the loop, they often are.

[truebeliever]

It seems to me one recent frequent poster is a mole for Symphony House or the Ritz-Carlton. For my money, this building is a far superior value...Amenities for all these buildings are about the the same. Views, parking, sun deck, relative lack of traffic congestion, proximity to the river park, train stations, Rittenhouse Square and the expressway, not to mention the unique physical structure and prominence in the skyline are all reasons I chose to purchase here. Looking forward to moving in next month.

[bryson662001]

It seems to me one recent frequent poster is a mole for Symphony House or the Ritz-Carlton. For my money, this building is a far superior value...Amenities for all these buildings are about the the same. Views, parking, sun deck, relative lack of traffic congestion, proximity to the river park, train stations, Rittenhouse Square and the expressway, not to mention the unique physical structure and prominence in the skyline are all reasons I chose to purchase here. Looking forward to moving in next month.

No idea who that could be since the Ritz isn't even finished and Symphony House has few fans here......but just for the record I don't believe the Murano is even close to being in the same class as those other buildings if only because of the huge difference in price.

[Ronald Reagan]

TrueBeliever, I agree the person that preceded your post does seem to be a mole. One thing he doesn't realize is that the a large chunk of the price differential between Murano and Ritz is the cost of construction material. They locked in on the construction materials pre-Katrina and construction material prices spiked up after Katrina.

Let him say what he wants. The building is beautiful and for the most part the developers did not cut any corners. The Wenge cabinets and Italian stone tile is absolutely top notch workmanship. In fact, I had my unit painted this week, and my painters said the original paint job was fantastic.

There will of course be growing pains when putting up such a large building but for the most part they did a great job.

I also know of 1 fellow who bought 3 units at the Murano during pre-construction and made them 1 unit. It is absolutely gorgeous!. He previously rented at the symphony House and advised that the developer cut corners in many aspects and there is evidence of shoddy work all over the place.

That being said, this is not a competition. For those who like Symphony, so be it. Bottom line is that The Murano is a beautiful addition to the city and moles like that clueless poster need to lower the tension.

[bryson662001]

TrueBeliever, I agree the person that preceded your post does seem to be a mole. .
If I am a mole, you are a shill, since all of your five posts on this forum have been in praise of the murano. Unlike you, I have no personal ax to grind. My observations about any building are no more than that, and based on personal experience, not what some fellow said. I have no opinion of the Ritz since I haven't seen it, but the price points indicate that it better be pretty special. We'll have to wait and see. As everyone in this forum knows I hate the Symphony House because it is very ugly and poorly located, but I have to admit that the interiors are as good as any building in town. You saw my review of the Murano. It is not in the same class as SH or what I expect to see at the Ritz. The only thing they have in common is that they are new construction.

[Ronald Reagan]

Previous Poster (Mole),

Many of my 5 posts included photos during construction. There are many bigger windbags on this blog than myself!

I happen to like my unit and I happen to love my building and I happen to think that for the most part the developers did a great job relative to workmanship given that there will always be a few issues and I believe that for the most part they have used top notch materials and workmanship. How and where does that make one a shill?

Again, I do not know much about the SH but I have heard about the developer cutting a few corners. Either way it is not a competition between Murano and St. James or Murano and Ritz or Murano and SH or anything else. The more residents in the city the better!

I will reiterate that the Murano had the benefit of lower construction material costs vs. the Ritz and this accounts for a chunk of the price differential. Other factors include the tie in with the Ritz Carlton.

I was going to include many pictures of my unit for the benefit of the board but I am reconsidering given that they will likely be attacked by self serving know it alls like the previous poster who is intent on raising the tension.

[bryson662001]

By all means please post pictures of your unit. I am sure we will all enjoy seeing what you were able to do with it. I promise not to comment if I don't like it. Also please remember that you made this personal by attacking me, not the other way around.

[SEPTATank]

Ha ha ha, Bryson is a mole. He has been posting for years about everything, here and Philly blog, just to lull everyone into thinking he isn't. But the guy with lavish praise for one project, a project he has bought into, is unbiased. Ha ha ha... I might not always agree with Bryson (like the ridiculous Siberia stuff about SH that, IMO, has a great location) but I really doubt he has a hidden agenda.

[winxs]

Ha ha ha, Bryson is a mole. He has been posting for years about everything, here and Philly blog, just to lull everyone into thinking he isn't. But the guy with lavish praise for one project, a project he has bought into, is unbiased. Ha ha ha... I might not always agree with Bryson (like the ridiculous Siberia stuff about SH that, IMO, has a great location) but I really doubt he has a hidden agenda.

...and don't forget those curtains of his. Bryson had to endure a bit of ridicule from some of the gang when they showed up in a picture of his. ;)

[bryson662001]

...and don't forget those curtains of his. Bryson had to endure a bit of ridicule from some of the gang when they showed up in a picture of his. ;)
Actually they were very nice curtains (draperies actually......black on white plaid..... very dramatic) but to please you guys I changed them. That and I got tired of them.

[Rufus]

The mole calling Bryson a mole. What is that, irony?

[tua21506]

What is all of this talk about moles lol....I guess this is the SSP version of the Spanish inquisition...lol

[philliesphinest]

What the F**k? Isn't anyone allowed to post their opinion on this blog anymore? WAAAAAAAHHHH!!! No one likes the Murano. WAAAAAHHHHH!!!!! :haha:

[drgoogle]

lets not get carried away if bryson doesnt like the building. its all just a matter of taste.

so anyone have interior pics or status updates. What floors are ready for move-in? Retail gossip? Neighborhood news?

[bryson662001]

lets not get carried away if bryson doesnt like the building. its all just a matter of taste.

so anyone have interior pics or status updates. What floors are ready for move-in? Retail gossip? Neighborhood news?

Actually I never said I didn't like it. (only Symphony House I said that) I said it isn't in the super luxury class, which was a disapointment because for some reason I thought it would be, and many people who haven't seen it assume that it is. That being said it is nice enough, for what it is, perhaps a little over priced. On the other hand , based on my most recent observations, I think Center City asking prices for resales that aren't new construction are on the rise again. Murano no doubt is partly responsible for that.

[CondoGuru]

Moles? What's with all this talk of moles? Some can be cancerous, and should be removed...others are just plain ugly, but harmless. :haha: I find that people who cannot afford to be part of something will always have negative things to say...it's just human nature. Get over it.

[philliesphinest]

I welcome all new and rehabbed residential construction in Center City Philadelphia. Having just recently invested in downtown Philadelphia and living here for the last year, I am very excited about watching it grow. I am happy that there are a couple of projects going on at the same time for us to "disagree" about. I remember downtown about 12 years ago when it seemed it became a ghost town after 6pm. Now it seems that there is always something going on around town (not just in Rittenhouse Square). :tup:

[drgoogle]

I tried to defend you but now your comments dont make too much sense. Murano is not super-lux nor nor was it advertised that way. Its advertised as being modern, elegant and simple. Murano is not priced anywhere near the super lux projects like RATR or Symphony House. Those 2 projects were priced hundreds of thousands higher. Different price point = different type of product.

also, i think you are being overly conservative saying the "murano is nice enough, for what it is". It turned out to be just like the model and an example of what our skyline could look like if we have enough forward looking people in this town.

Actually I never said I didn't like it. (only Symphony House I said that) I said it isn't in the super luxury class, which was a disapointment because for some reason I thought it would be, and many people who haven't seen it assume that it is. That being said it is nice enough, for what it is, perhaps a little over priced.

[bryson662001]

Murano is not super-lux nor nor was it advertised that way. Its advertised as being modern, elegant and simple. Murano is not priced anywhere near the super lux projects like RATR or Symphony House. Those 2 projects were priced hundreds of thousands higher. Different price point = different type of product.
You don't have to tell me.....tell those other guys. That's what started this whole dispute. In the meantime I don't have anything more to say about the Murano......next stop RATR.

[Swinefeld]

No personal attacks please.

[philliesphinest]

Does anyone have any information on the retail component of this building?:shrug:

[Don098]

Does anyone know when the official grand opening is? I know people have already moved in... It's probably time to retire this thread to the completed projects. What does everyone think?

[hammersklavier]

I was just reading Philly Skyline and Brad over there said he was retiring his construction thread on this project, so I'm with you, Don.

[Don098]

That's what prompted my post...I'm sure Swinefeld is on top of this building's status.

[Pinoy2.0]

is the top lit up (going to be lit up) in any way shape or form eventually? i only ask bc one person who worked on it said yes, another who seemed knowledgeable said no.

[BSchnee]

Pinoy2.0:

No, there will not be lighting at the top of the building. I know this as I drew the top of the building.

Having worked on this project as it's Project Architect for the last 3 1/2 years during the design, documentation and construction, I am joyed to see such a strong reception from the public at large. Thanks from everyone on the design team. Pleasing critics within the profession is tough, but the public is even tougher. I hope that the building will continue to be well thought of as it seats itself amongst the redevelopment of the west Market Street area of City Center.

[truebeliever]

Thank you, BSchnee, for all your work on the Murano. Everyone I've met there so far and a few others I know who are moving in are all very enthusiastic about the building and it's creating quite a buzz around Philadelphia. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity and privilege of living there soon and know I will be loving it for years to come.:tup:

[Plompy Lfeata]

is the top lit up (going to be lit up) in any way shape or form eventually? i only ask bc one person who worked on it said yes, another who seemed knowledgeable said no.

No, there will not be lighting at the top of the building. I know this as I drew the top of the building.

What are the red lights that go back and forth across the building? is that to keep airplanes from hitting it? it seems alittle over kill for something like that. they are definatly noticable froma distance though as i can see them more clear then the 1 and 2 liberty lights. i thought that this was a form of crown lighting. but it must be something else?

[pentopaper50]

Check it out...Inga loves Murano. See the last paragraph.

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/27649484.html

[skellergroup]

I want this to be finished soon....I think it still needs a lot of work though.

[Don098]

Does anyone have any night shots? Has the building officially opened and is construction 100% completed (aside from the retail space below)?

[McBane]

what retail space?

[Gekko]

I tried to defend you but now your comments dont make too much sense. Murano is not super-lux nor nor was it advertised that way. Its advertised as being modern, elegant and simple. Murano is not priced anywhere near the super lux projects like RATR or Symphony House. Those 2 projects were priced hundreds of thousands higher. Different price point = different type of product.

also, i think you are being overly conservative saying the "murano is nice enough, for what it is". It turned out to be just like the model and an example of what our skyline could look like if we have enough forward looking people in this town.

GB - we miss you.

http://www.phillyblog.com/philly/general-discussion/33616-just-how-sick-housing-market.html

[CondoGuru]

Oh jeez...don't take the bait Doc! The loonies over there don't have anyone to argue with and occupy their time since we all started ignoring them. The building turned out beautiful by the way...congrats again!

[Don098]

Oh jeez...don't take the bait Doc! The loonies over there don't have anyone to argue with and occupy their time since we all started ignoring them. The building turned out beautiful by the way...congrats again!

Figuring this thread has been quiet for a week since that post, I don't think he did...

Can anyone answer my question above, btw?

[drgoogle]

Yeah, I just don't have the time I used to be wasting it arguing back and forth. Murano is a great building and long-term investment. I have the cash-flows to prove it. Enough said.

As for pictures, I'd love to see some. Anyone have updates!

[Don098]

What percentage of the units are currently occupied, and what percentage of the units have been sold? When I saw it the other night, it looked incredibly dark except for the space shuttle landing strip blinking red lights. Also, any word on the retail space downstairs, or is the economy just killing it for now?