The celebrated Palmolive Building, undergoing a transformation from office tower to 103 ultra-luxury condominiums, is unveiling two new model residences, designed by Gary Lee and Larry Booth. The models showcase the landmark building’s 21st-century makeover by Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, a leading developer and manager of high-end Chicago residential properties.

Located on North Michigan Avenue at Walton Place, the Palmolive Building features two distinctively furnished model homes. The first, by Gary Lee, of Gary Lee Partners, is a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, 2,361-square-foot residence designed as an elegant pied-a-terre for sophisticated empty-nesters seeking style and comfort within an iconic structure.

The second model is by Larry Booth of Booth Hansen Associates, architect for the building’s renovation. Reflecting a contemporary design in contrast with the vintage structure, the 1,146-square-foot, one-bedroom residence targets an urban-singles lifestyle. Both models are located on the building’s 8th floor.

Among the largest outdoor spaces

Residences at the Palmolive Building range from 1,146 square feet to a 9,355-square-foot, 18th-floor home with terraces totaling nearly 4,000 square feet, among the largest outdoor spaces of any high-rise in the city. Prices start at $450,000 and reach more than $10 million.

Draper and Kramer will deliver the Palmolive Building’s first residences beginning in spring 2005. All homes will be completed by spring 2006.

“In redeveloping this landmark property, we complemented the building’s classic Deco design with the latest in technology and state-of-the-art amenities,” said Jim Freko, vice president of Draper and Kramer. “Residents of the Palmolive Building will enjoy the best of both worlds — a home that combines history, luxury, convenience and comfort.”

A technologically advanced building

One of the most technologically advanced residential buildings in Chicago, the Palmolive Building offers building-wide ethernet with T1 Internet access, CAT 6 distributed wiring throughout each home, digital cable, optional satellite television, HDTV, and a central technology center with computer networking and communications networking capacity in each residence.

Upgrades include automatic lighting and window-shade control as well as home theaters and integrated music throughout. Additionally, an optional touch screen lets residents request their car from the garage, control home climate, receive notice of deliveries and instantly access building staff. Other amenities include 24-hour concierge and doorman, a private lounge and health club, and a valet garage offering a weekly car wash.

Exceptional standard finishes

In keeping with the building’s vintage details, the residences feature exceptional standard finishes such as white oak flooring, marble fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling slab limestone in master baths and powder rooms, extensive millwork and custom ceiling details.

Kitchens are equipped with Wolf, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances. Brushed nickel hardware in a period design accents the Varenna cabinetry.

An instantly recognizable landmark

The Palmolive Building, designed by Holabird & Root, is one of the world’s foremost Art Deco skyscrapers, instantly recognizable by the beacon at its crown. An icon on the Chicago skyline since 1929, the tower originally served as corporate headquarters of its namesake toiletries and household products manufacturer.

Founded in 1893, Draper and Kramer, Incorporated is one of the oldest family-owned real estate firms in the nation, with more than 300 professionals involved in the development, marketing, management and financing of commercial and residential properties.

For more information about the Palmolive Building or an appointment to view the model residences, contact Sales Director Katherine Chez, 312-397-1590, or visit palmolivebuilding.com.