We’ve looked in at The Tower at 500 Throckmorton Street before. Two years ago we featured 3602, a stunning 5600 square foot corner unit in the grand style. This week we have a chance to experience high-rise living in a different vein. Nearly as roomy clocking in 4,409 square feet, Unit 3601 has a more relaxed, more modern take on elegant living.
The history of The Tower is worth retelling. Once known as the Bank One Building — yes, that Bank One Building — it was ground zero of the horrific March 28, 2000 tornado, which left half a billion dollars worth of damage to Fort Worth’s downtown in its wake. Work to reconstruct the building began in 2001, but extensive asbestos abatement and other unforeseen costs halted the effort. For several years, it stood, an urban oddity, half clad in plywood and metal, its very existence uncertain.
In 2003, realizing the potential payoff of a prize location in the heart of a lively downtown, TLC Realty announced plans for an urban, mixed-use revamp of the storm-orphaned edifice. Work was completed in 2005. The six-sided structure is now enveloped by a square proscenium of stone, which anchors it to the city block it occupies. The 1974 conception of Atlanta architect John Portman has stood the test of time and looks 21st century, fresh as paint.
Unlike many high-rises with inconvenient piers, supporting elements, or furr downs, one immediately notices how handily Unit 3601 breaks into very livable and comfortable spaces. The double-height living area is intimate, centering around a gas log fireplace.
The overlooking gallery helps break the wall space and creates an additional living area below. Beyond, stairs lead to two bedrooms which share one of the two full baths.
A fully kitted out kitchen with pull-up bar overlooks an informal dining area. A large 18-by-18 dining room captures views to the east.
The master retreat is on the first floor of the unit and features a luxurious spa bath with with soaking tub, large shower with dual shower heads, and dual sinks. The costly, glam, deer patterned Stark Carpet is in good nick.
As you can see from the view at the beginning of this dispatch, on a clear day you can see Dallas, or Sundance Square, or Panther Island. Balconies? There are four with nearly 360-degree views. Imagine the open air, theater-in-the-round, firework displays.
The unit also has a utility room for laundry. Building amenities include a club room, fitness room, grill and a rooftop lap pool.
Co-listing agents Laura and Jeremy Spann of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s, have priced Unit 3601 at The Tower at $1.995 million.
Eric Prokesh is an interior designer whose work has appeared on HGTV, and in books and publications including D Home, Southern Accents, House Beautiful, and House and Garden. In January 2005, HG named Eric one of the 50 tastemakers in America and D Home has included him as one of Dallas’ Best Designers for 10 years. Having lived most of his life in Dallas, he now calls Fort Worth home and is one of our experts on beautiful Fort Worth Dirt. His own home on historic Elizabeth Boulevard has been featured in 360 West.
