IT'S MORE THAN JUST A FANCY NAME. Solstice on the Park—the 147-condo development in Chicago's Hyde Park—uses 71-degree angled windows to capitalize on the sun while saving energy and giving the building a unique look.
“The design of the glass is the angle of the sun at the winter and summer solstices,” says Eli Ungar, partner and founder of developer Antheus Capital, based in Englewood, N.J. “It maximizes the sun during the winter and minimizes the sun during the summer so residents use less energy.”
The 28-story project, which will break ground next year, promises to be a sight for sore eyes—it replaces a parking lot. Architect Jeanne Gang of Chicago-based Studio/Gang Architects says the angled glass idea was a way to block out the sun without using an overhang. Along with being energy-efficient and creating a modern look to the building, it has its interior benefits as well, she says. “You get this amazing view outside, and it is visually very interesting inside,” Gang says. “Instead of feeling like you are in a box, it feels bigger than it is. The top of the glass is moving away from you, creating a nice space.”
Space is an issue for Solstice's prospective residents since many are downsizing from large homes nearby, Ungar says, who demands an abundance of storage space in the floor plans. Units range in size from 1,550 square feet to 4,200 square feet with prices from $480,000 to $2.55 million. Parking spots in the garage are available from $30,000. Ungar says the sales office is up and running, and the units, which will be delivered in 2010, are selling well.
