Instead, there is the usual array of high-profile designs by star architects.

Other developers have selected star architects to design their condominiums.

In the jaded world of Manhattan real estate, star architects have become ho-hum.

A star architect also lends momentum to the public approval process, some developers say.

These projects refute the notion that great architecture depends on "star" architects.

"The star architect is confined to the civic building," he said.

But a couple of factors distinguish Calatrava from the current crop of star architects.

For clients, hiring a star architect also brings with it the satisfaction of being a patron of the arts.

Since the 1980s the institution has tried to expand its landmark building, hiring star architects to design additions.

Lately commercial developers have been scrambling to find their own star architects.