Chicago Spire

Dream Big:
The Chicago Spire might be one of the most symbolic projects of the recent real estate decline. Conceived in 2005 by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the building was to be the nation's tallest, complete with 150 stories, almost 1,200 condo units, and a hotel. The condos would have ranged in price from $500k to upwards of $40 million. However, during the recession the project struggled financially and was ultimately abandoned.

As a Chicagoan, I would have loved to see this project completed. It may have attracted some of the global recognition we compete for against other great American cities like New York and San Francisco and believe we deserve. But I can't help but view it also as a symbol of the greed and grandiosity associated with the time period in which it was designed. I just can't imagine a scenario where a building of such proportion would sell out in Chicago. It likely would have required more international investment than even the largest and most vibrant mid-west city can attract.