Spire architect files lien against developer

The Chicago Spire's architect has stopped working on the 2,000-foot (609.6-meter) tower, claiming the project's developer owes him more than $11 million.

A firm associated with Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava has filed a lien with the Cook County Recorder of Deeds, saying it suspended work on the Spire on July 16th because of the money owed.

Chicago-based architecture firm Perkins & Will also filed a lien against Dublin, Irish-based Shelbourne Development Group for $4.85 million.

A Shelbourne spokeswoman told Crain's Chicago Business for a story on its Web site Friday that the developer plans to dispute the liens.

She described the liens as "the normal course of business" for the companies to protect themselves.