Calatrava stops work on Spire, files lien
By Eddie Baeb, Oct. 17, 2008
http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com
(Crain’s) — Renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava has stopped working on the Chicago Spire, claiming the developer hasn’t paid $11.34 million he’s owed for his work on the planned 2,000-foot twisting tower.
The lien against Dublin, Ireland-based Shelbourne Development Ltd., along with another by architecture firm Perkins & Will Inc. for $4.85 million, is the latest sign that the planned 150-story tower is struggling to get out of the ground.
A venture affiliated with Mr. Calatrava filed a lien Oct. 8 with the Cook County Recorder, saying it suspended work on the Spire July 16 because of non-payment.
Chicago-based Perkins & Will also filed a lien Oct. 8 against Shelbourne and Mr. Calatrava’s venture, Festina Lente (IL) Ltd., saying the company is owed $4.85 million for its work on the project as architect of record. Perkins & Will in the lien says its last date of work was June 16.
A Shelbourne spokeswoman says the developer plans to dispute the liens, and that there are questions about whether the $11.3 million claimed by Mr. Calatrava is a “proper amount.” She says Shelbourne Executive Chairman Garrett Kelleher was out of the country and unavailable for comment.............................