A New York Landmark Updated By Shigeru Ban

The Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, whose most revolutionary perform has been directed toward temporary housing for disaster victims, will be leaving a permanent mark on a landmark New York City building. The 132-year-old Cast Iron Home, a downtown Manhattan constructing with a breathtakingly ornate cast iron facade, will soon have a pair of decadently expansive penthouses designed by Ban sitting atop the original 6-story structure—an addition so impressive and visually harmonious that New York’s famously finicky Landmarks Preservation Commission approved the design and style instantly. Living in a Ban space has it’s value, even though: the penthouses, generously infused with the architect’s bespoke white lacquer interior details, are set to go on the marketplace this spring for a clean $12-15 million.

Images: New York Times Curbed

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Music Lovers Dream of a Landmark's Transformation

While we wait in Grand Rapids for the 2 East Fulton building to undergo transformation and have new life breathed into it, music lovers are pushing for something similar to happen to a musical landmark in Chicago.

A South Michigan Avenue building had been dubbed the "home of the blues" and rock and roll. The building had housed a studio, which birthed the careers of blues artists such as Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Little Walter, and Chuck Berry, which in turn inspired rock and roll artists such as Beatles, Eric Clapton, and Mick Jagger.

Currently, this building and the surrounding area, called "Motor Row," where life and inspiration had been flowing has been silent and isn't acknowledged or known by many locals, let alone out-of-towners. But music lovers who know and appreciate the musical history of the area are pushing for it to become a "bright spot" and regain vibrant activity.

While much more planning needs to be done before the area can really be transformed, a great start to bringing back some life has been the installment of Cheap Trick, "a one-of-a-kind eatery, unique musical instrument museum, radio station, and performance space." This lively place just so happens to be our wall neighbors at the Visbeen Associates Chicago office! We have a front row seat to watch Motor Row's transformation, and have the opportunity to infuse our inspiration and creativity into the area. You can be sure when you visit, you'll be able to experience the growth, too.

Check out the full article and news clip about the dreams and beginnings of development for Motor Row.

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