Optima, Inc. took more than 40 reservations during March at Elm Tower, the second phase of its Optima Old Orchard Woods development, located three blocks west of Old Orchard Shopping Center, overlooking the Harms Woods Forest Preserve.
The three connected 20-story condo towers, which will be visible from the Edens Expressway, feature a wall of glass and aluminum that will reflect the sky and dramatic cutouts and provide units with ample light and air while giving the development a signature look.
The project will total about 691 condos in three phases: Oak Tower, Elm Tower and Maple Tower. Construction is underway on Oak Tower, the first of three, which is 80 percent sold, according to Optima. The developer has opened sales on floors three through 11 at Elm Tower, second phase, which has 179 units.
Prices start at $280,000 for one-bedroom condominiums and in the mid-$300,000s for two-bedroom plans. Larger three-bedroom units start in the $460s. One heated garage space is included with each condominium, and additional spaces are available for purchase.
Blending a strong architectural presence with elements that provide a human scale, Optima Old Orchard Woods includes a west-facing courtyard entry oriented to the adjacent woods. The 500-foot long portico accents the entry and also serves as a sun deck, while a driveway encircles a quadrangle with a formal garden and a reflecting pond featuring several fountains.
The development includes a dramatic two-story party room, swimming pool, large spa and sun deck, as well as a fitness center on the penthouse floor. A sales center for Optima Old Orchard Woods, www.OptimaWeb.com, is open at the Optima office in Evanston, at 1741 Maple Street.