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Originally Posted by Zoot
False. Architects might do the design work in the literal sense, but the client dictates the project starting with the mere selection of the architect. Developers rarely give architects free reign in design. I stand by Justin's comments. Looking at a portfolio certainly does give a sense of the quality of product that a developer is willing to pay for (architectural style, materials, etc.). Obviously things can change and SLC has clearly shown that they are willing to pursue something beyond their bread and butter. However, the proposed design is not quite up to the level worthy of such a premier site. The height doesn't bother me. It's encouraged. However, the demolition of historic properties for a poorly articulated bland tower with generic streetscape DOES bother me.
I am hopeful that my fellow neighbors will help improve this project through the stakeholders group. If not, I am fine with the property sitting vacant until a deserving project is proposed. The property has traded for significant funds which will ensure that something gets built when the timing is right.
And to the earlier comment that such views are "short sighted" - The same can be said about those who are so quick to support a project that demolishes our history and replaces it with a generic design barely worthy of Market Street. Those pesky height boners...
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What a developer will pay for it dependent on the specifics of the building and the market. Someone building a luxury hi rise in an area where units might sell for $500k+ has a different budget than someone developing low income housing using tax credit financing schemes or someone designing for a nonprofit. So unless someone can show that SLC has provided a low quality building in an area with the same characteristics, zoning classification and price range of rittenhouse square the comparisons are pointless. Architects and developers can and will create totally different looking structures in different markets. On top of that what has been generated so far hardly looks cheap or half assed so I'm not why why the accusations are being leveled at this point.
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