You’re looking at a 3-D view of Harbor Point on Google Earth.
If you have Google Earth 4 (and if you don’t you should) you can download and view 3-dimensional models of many high-rise buildings and other Chicago landmarks. Rotate, zoom, change perspective and more. It’s a real dazzler.
A number of the models were provided by the American Institute of Architects.
Wow, very impressive technology…but talk about “false advertising!” Pity the poor out-of-towner who looks at this picture and thinks, “Wow, I think I’ll contact a Realtor about buying something in this building! I’ll be all alone by the lake, with clear views of the water and city!” And then imagine his/her reaction upon learining that there are a whole bunch of hi-rises nearby, some of which may actually obstruct a clear view…
City gal,
There was no intent to mislead, and few people will be misled. They can also look at the Birds-eye views on local.live.com, and our high-rise maps, etc. etc.
From a range of available 3-D models to download, I selected one. I could have superimposed more … but there’s only so much time in the day.
That is very cool. However, not all high-rise buildings are 3-D’d yet, so it does look a little odd, looking at a 3-D model of the Wrigley building, next to a 2-D version of the old Sun Times building. But the effort (3D Warehouse) is unbelievable. Love it.
I wonder why it isn’t a high priority on every developer’s checklist to have a 3-D model up here as soon as the building design is finalized. Should be a great, virtually free marketing vehicle.
But then, most ad agencies are still frightened of the changes that are occurring online.