CondoCanDo's archives: Stories from 2005 regarding condominiuums

Sep. 07, 2005 Hot trends so far in 2005 DOUG SMITH The Next Big Thing Four of seven residential high-rises announced over the past 16 months are under way uptown, and two are almost ready to start taking contracts. To satisfy demand for homes closer to the center city, apartment complexes -- and possibly even a hotel -- are going condo. A 30-acre entertainment village is under way in the northwest corner of Fourth Ward. And the uptown development surge north of The Square is finally spreading -- to South Tryon Street, West Trade Street and Second Ward. Outside the core, development booms in southwest Mecklenburg as rim counties experience a surge in commercial and residential activity. Those are some of the trends spotlighted in The Next Big Thing column, which debuted Feb. 16. The idea was to look beyond the breaking news of the day and provide context for readers to understand a real estate trend and its potential implications. In the early weeks, we wondered whether the Charlotte region was large enough to have a Next Big Thing every week. Boy, are we convinced now. We've traveled from Mooresville to Lancaster County, from Matthews to Belmont talking with developers, planners, analysts and residents. As we research the issues through the end of the year, check our list of the top trends from the first six months of The Next Big Thing. The High-Rise Buzz One of the biggest surprises in urban development is the dramatic shift toward high-rise living. Seven residential towers have been announced uptown. Construction is under way on four -- 17-story Courtside, 28-story TradeMark, 13-story 230 South Tryon and 36-story Avenue. Developer Pete Verna said he expects to start work this month on The Park, 21 stories. The Vue Charlotte, a 50-story tower, is opening its sales center Monday at 101 N. Tryon St. in One Independence Center. And Avenue plans to open its sales office Saturday at 500 W. Fifth St., Suite 120. The developer of EpiCentre's proposed 53-story residential tower hasn't disclosed details. The center city appeals to empty-nesters and young professionals attracted by cultural amenities, entertainment and restaurants. Many people also are striving to live closer to their jobs in the center city -- a trend that could become more popular in the wake of the gasoline crunch. How intense is interest? Churchill Development Group LLC, developer of The Vue Charlotte, said more than 3,000 people have requested information about that project's 403 units by phone and e-mail. And 400 have made appointments to talk with a sales agent about purchasing. The Vue Fifth & Poplar RiverGate 230 South Tryon