MODERN LIVING: Glass Cities

On Chicago's lakeside Gold Coast last week, builders broke ground for a pair of "glass cities." Designed by Modernist Architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the project consists of two 29-story skyscrapers on one site, four 28-story structures about a mile away. The six buildings, clad in aluminum and tinted glass, will have 1,283 apartments, offer such luxury features as airconditioning, soundproof walls, double-oven kitchen ranges, and valet service. Rentals will range from $100 (for one room, dressing room, kitchenette and bath) to $700 (for a twelve-room apartment). To be built in 18 months, the glass cities will cost an estimated $25 million, partially financed by an $11 million, 20-year Equitable Life Assurance Society mortgage, a record loan for apartment construction in Chicago.