Posted by James Ucer on November 20, 1999 at 17:29:51:In Reply to: Carew Tower posted by Jake Mecklenborg on October 29, 1999 at 00:48:05:
Construction began on this building in September 1929, one month before the stock market crash. The budget was cut on exterior materials which explains the simple brick from the 4th to the 49th floor and lack of stainless steel and other metalwork often seen on grandiose art deco buildings. The 1st-3rd floor are very well done however, and the 2 floor lobby/arcade is amazing, as is the hotel. Even the basement parking garage is done in multi-color terra cotta tile, including a tile floor. The cars descend on an elevator instead of ramps, and there is a turntable that can turn around delivery trucks. To reach the observation deck one must switch elevators at the 45th floor, and the 2nd elevator only holds 3 people. Visitors must climb a staircase from the 48th to the 49th floor, and the open observation deck affords an amazing view. In early October 1929, just weeks before the crash, announcements were made for two more 45+ story art deco office buildings on blocks adjacent to the Carew Tower, needless to say these plans were scrapped.