All articles by Dana Schulz

Dana is a writer and preservationist with a passion for all things New York. After graduating from New York University with a BA in Urban Design & Architecture Studies, she worked at the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation, where she planned the organization's public programs and wrote for their blog Off the Grid. In her free time, she leads walking tours about the social and cultural history of city neighborhoods. Follow her on Twitter @danaschulzNYC.

Javits Center will now provide 2,500 COVID beds

Photo by Darren McGee- Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, via Flickr cc

April 2, 2020

Javits Center will now provide 2,500 COVID beds

By Dana Schulz

When it first opened on Monday, the temporary hospital set up at the Javits Center was to serve as an overflow site, treating non-COVID patients to ease the burden on the city's hospitals. But as the severity of the situation has worsened throughout the week, Governor Cuomo asked President Trump for approval on using Javits' 2,500 beds solely for COVID-19 patients. He received the approval this evening.
More details

Policy

20 NYC hotels sign on as temporary hospitals, will add 10,000 beds

Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

April 2, 2020

20 NYC hotels sign on as temporary hospitals, will add 10,000 beds

By Dana Schulz

New York City's hotels have seen more than an 80 percent drop in occupancy since the coronavirus crisis, but that unfortunate fact has at least opened one positive door. As Mayor de Blasio announced in his press conference yesterday, 20 hotels have signed contracts to be converted to temporary hospitals, which will add roughly 10,000 additional beds. As NY1 reported, on Wednesday, Dr. Mitchell Katz, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals, said, "We are in disaster mode so that contracts can be quickly signed. When it’s operational, patients who don’t need to be incubated, who are recovering but not well enough to leave the hospital, will be sent to hotels."
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Cast iron accents and a glassed-in loft bring the drama to this $750K Gramercy co-op

Photo credit: Chalom + Blaylock Photography, courtesy The Corcoran Group

April 2, 2020

Cast iron accents and a glassed-in loft bring the drama to this $750K Gramercy co-op

By Dana Schulz

If you're holed up in a small apartment with nowhere to escape your significant other or roommate, this split-level Gramercy listing very well might leave you with major apartment envy. The one-bedroom co-op at 215 East 24th Street just hit the market for a cool $750,000, and it's full of industrial accents--exposed brick, tons of original cast iron, wooden ceilings beams--combined with a contemporary glass-walled second floor that has enough space for a bonus bedroom and airy office.
See the rest

Distinctive Homes

Could Mount Sinai’s new self-reporting app help map coronavirus in NYC?

Map by the Department of Health showing total count of people testing positive for COVID-19 by zip code

April 1, 2020

Could Mount Sinai’s new self-reporting app help map coronavirus in NYC?

By Dana Schulz

It makes sense that New Yorkers would want to know many positive cases of COVID-19 are in their neighborhoods, but can you really provide the information accurately? Yesterday, the Department of Health released a zip code-based map that shows the number of patients testing positive for coronavirus, which, as the Post first reported, alarmingly points to the fact that wealthier zip codes have far fewer positives. However, this does not take into account the rate of testing or population of a given area, leading many experts to say the map actually paints a picture of testing behavior, not positive cases. This is why the Mount Sinai Health System today launched an app where New Yorkers can self-report their symptoms and test results.
More details ahead

City Living

Listing photo credit: Tim Waltman of Evan Joseph Studios, courtesy of Douglas Elliman

April 1, 2020

$9.9M Chelsea penthouse has Empire State Building and Hudson Yards views

By Dana Schulz

The west side of Chelsea is known for its collection of starchitecture projects, and this $9,950,000 penthouse at 520 West 19th Street is not only an architectural feat in itself, but it has views of all the surrounding projects (like Bjarke Ingels' XI and Thomas Heatherwick's Lantern House), the entirety of Hudson Yards, and even the Empire State Building. And all of these views can best be enjoyed from the 50-foot-long terrace. The two-floor interior is a sprawling 4,100 square feet and has five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and lots of bonus space and storage.
Take the tour

Distinctive Homes

De Blasio’s open street pilot gets extended through Sunday

Photo courtesy of NYC DOT/Flickr

March 31, 2020

De Blasio’s open street pilot gets extended through Sunday

By Dana Schulz

After receiving pressure from both Governor Cuomo and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson to close some streets to vehicular traffic in an effort to give New Yorkers more outdoor space to exercise, Mayor de Blasio finally launched a Safe Streets pilot from Friday, March 27, to Monday, March 30 that included a roughly six-block stretch in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, totaling 1.6 miles of the city's 6,000 miles of roads. Today, the Mayor's office announced that they'll be extending the pilot program through Sunday, April 5th with the same hours of 10am-7pm.
See the full list

Listing photos courtesy of Warburg Realty

March 31, 2020

For $1.75M, a corner Battery Park condo with direct Freedom Tower views

By Dana Schulz

Famed architecture firm Pelli Clarke Pelli completed the LEED Platinum-certified Battery Park City condo tower The Visionaire in 2008, two years after construction began on One World Trade Center. Today, many of its apartments have stunning views of the tallest building in the western hemisphere, including this two-bedroom unit currently listed for $1,750,000. The unique shape of the living space, coupled with its 11-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, put this view front and center.
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Distinctive Homes

For $3.9M, this Prospect Park South Dutch Colonial has an ‘enchanted forest’ and 7 bedrooms

Listing photos courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens

March 30, 2020

For $3.9M, this Prospect Park South Dutch Colonial has an ‘enchanted forest’ and 7 bedrooms

By Dana Schulz

It's always a nice reminder that you can get a slice of suburban living without leaving the city, and this Dutch Colonial charmer in Prospect Park South is the perfect example. Just listed for $3,875,000, the seven-bedroom house has the ideal combination of preserved interiors and modern upgrades. But what really makes it stand out is the "enchanted forest" in the back. The huge outdoor space has meandering pathways shaded by tree canopies, a pond and waterfall, and several seating areas and planted gardens.
Take the full indoor/outdoor tour

Distinctive Homes

Inside the 1,000-bed temporary hospital at the Javits Center

Photo by Darren McGee- Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, via Flickr cc

March 27, 2020

Inside the 1,000-bed temporary hospital at the Javits Center

By Dana Schulz

On Monday, Governor Cuomo announced that the Army Corps of Engineers began work to create a temporary hospital inside the Javits Center. And though he said the work would last a week to 10 days, today he held his daily press conference inside the completed 1,000-bed facility, which will officially open on Monday. After profusely thanking the men and women who worked tirelessly to construct this overflow hospital, the Governor said that he is joining all New Yorkers to "kick coronavirus' ass."
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Policy

19 windows and a bohemian vibe make this $1.8M West Village loft a keeper

Photo credit: Elizabeth Dooley, Courtesy of Compass

March 27, 2020

19 windows and a bohemian vibe make this $1.8M West Village loft a keeper

By Dana Schulz

19 massive windows, three exposures, 11-foot ceilings, and one very stylish design--this $1.8 million West Village loft is bright, beautiful, and was designed by famed architect Aurelie Paradisio in collaboration with a bohemian fashion designer. Located at 99 Bank Street, it's in the heart of the West Village, just off Abingdon Square and has one bedroom, as well as a bonus lofted bedroom.
Have a look

Distinctive Homes

NYC removed 80 basketball hoops from parks

By Dana Schulz

In the recent weeks, Mayor de Blasio and Governor Cuomo have taken different approaches when it comes to social distancing measures in public spaces, but one thing they've agreed on is that basketball games need to stop. In his press conference on Wednesday, the Mayor spoke about the specific problem related to basketball courts and announced that he'd received reports from the Parks Department and the NYPD that 80 courts around the city, out of a total of 1,700, were an ongoing issue. He went on to say that the basketball hoops at these locations would be removed, which they were yesterday.
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Cobble Hill townhouse with European flair can be your ‘temporary paradise’ for $21K/month

Photos courtesy of The Corcoran Group

March 26, 2020

Cobble Hill townhouse with European flair can be your ‘temporary paradise’ for $21K/month

By Dana Schulz

From the outside, this corner Cobble Hill townhouse is classic Brooklyn with its 1899 brick and brownstone facade, ornate doorframes, and stately bay windows. But inside, it's like stepping into a Parisian flat, with floor-to-ceiling arched windows, historic mantles and moldings, and a design aesthetic full of gold accents, lush fabrics, and an eclectic mix of classical furnishings. That said, the best part of this $21,000/month, five-bedroom rental is that it comes fully furnished.
Take the tour

Distinctive Homes

$2.6M Williamsburg penthouse has a rooftop cabana and a private parking spot

Listing photos courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens

March 25, 2020

$2.6M Williamsburg penthouse has a rooftop cabana and a private parking spot

By Dana Schulz

How's this for views? From both the terrace and the rooftop cabana of a classic Williamsburg loft near the waterfront, you'll gaze at all five East River bridges, the Manhattan skyline, and a cool birdseye view of Domino Park. The interior of the penthouse at 58 Metropolitan Avenue isn't too shabby, either. Asking $2,595,000, the three-bedroom apartment has a huge living area with oversized windows on three sides, contemporary finishes, and a private indoor parking spot with an electric charger and storage space.
Lots more to see

Distinctive Homes

Photo by Daniel Schludi on Unsplash

March 24, 2020

NYC is asking community spaces to sign up as possible emergency management centers

By Dana Schulz

With four sites already identified as temporary hospitals--and construction underway on the largest, the Javits Center--the city is now looking for additional spaces that can be used to support NYC Emergency Management. The call is for community spaces with a large interior room such as community centers, places of worship, or campus facilities that can be utilized for outreach, training, or gathering during an emergency or as a disaster recovery center. Though it's not explicitly stated, NYC Council Speaker Corey Johnson noted on Twitter that some of these spaces could be "suitable for converting to temporary hospital rooms."
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Meet the 7,000 ‘Invisible Hands’ delivering essentials to at-risk New Yorkers

Photos courtesy of Invisible Hands

March 24, 2020

Meet the 7,000 ‘Invisible Hands’ delivering essentials to at-risk New Yorkers

By Dana Schulz

If you needed more evidence that New Yorkers come together in a time of crisis, look no further than Invisible Hands. The premise of the volunteer group is that low-risk people can help to bring groceries and supplies to those in demographics at high risk for COVID-19. Simone, Liam, and Healy — "healthy 20-somethings in NYC" — started the group just nine days ago, and today have amassed 7,000 volunteers across New York City and parts of Jersey City. Yesterday, we spoke with Liam Elkind about what it's been like starting this incredible group, how New Yorkers have been able to "pull together when it feels like the world is trying to pull us apart," and what Invisible Hands hopes for the future.
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$5.85M Tudor ‘castle’ in Westchester has a fireplace from the Vanderbilts and church bells from France

Photos courtesy of Houlihan Lawrence

March 24, 2020

$5.85M Tudor ‘castle’ in Westchester has a fireplace from the Vanderbilts and church bells from France

By Dana Schulz

It's hard to know where to start with this incredible Westchester county mansion. Situated on the Manor Park and Beach in Larchmont, the Tudor-style home has a unique quadrangle shape with a huge interior courtyard. When it was built in 1901, it was the carriage house for the Crocker Estate, and from 1955 to 1996, it was home to New York Times drama critic Walter Kerr and "Please Don't Eat the Daisies" playwright Jean Kerr. During the 1920s, it's owner salvaged 35 truckloads of architectural materials from the demolished Vanderbilt Mansion, and these pieces, like the two-story fireplace, are perfectly preserved. Recently listed for $5,850,000, this waterfront "castle" is truly a property that you need to see to believe.
Don't miss this tour

In the South Bronx, affordable housing lottery opens for 31 mixed-income units near Yankee Stadium

Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

March 23, 2020

In the South Bronx, affordable housing lottery opens for 31 mixed-income units near Yankee Stadium

By Dana Schulz

At 3120 Park Avenue and 451 East 159th Street, in the Melrose section of the Bronx, 31 affordable apartments are up for grabs for New Yorkers earning 30, 50, 100, and 110 percent of the area median income. The Park and Elton Apartments, which are located close to Yankee Stadium and many public transit options, have available units ranging from $359/month studios to $2,052/month two-bedrooms.
Find out if you qualify

Affordable Housing

Photo credit: DDreps, Courtesy of Compass

March 23, 2020

Rich colors and a classic reno define this $2.9M Upper East Side co-op

By Dana Schulz

Located just off Park Avenue at 114 East 90th Street, a classic pre-war co-op, this three-bedroom apartment has all the elegance of a 1920s classic-seven, but it's received a modern renovation that has updated the layout for 21st-century living and added rich colors and patterns throughout. Plus it's prime Carnegie Hill location puts it right near both the 86th and 96th Street subway stations, as well as Central Park and the Guggenheim.
Look around

Distinctive Homes

March 22, 2020

Governor Cuomo says NYC must develop an immediate plan to address density issues in parks

By Dana Schulz

Within 24 hours from Sunday morning, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson must come up with a plan to address continued density issues in the city, especially in parks. "It has to be done quickly, and it's going to have to be dramatic action," said the Governor in a press conference, following a personal visit to the city on Saturday during which he observed a major lack of social distancing in places like Central Park and the Grand Army Plaza Farmer's Market.
READ MORE

The full list of New York’s essential services

Photo by Bianca Jordan on Unsplash

March 20, 2020

The full list of New York’s essential services

By Dana Schulz

Earlier today, Governor Cuomo announced "New York State on Pause," a new executive order aimed at flattening the curve of the coronavirus spread across the state. A big part of this order is a 100 percent closure of non-essential businesses statewide, (effective 8pm Sunday), meaning that all non-essential employees must either work from home or not work. Outside of the obvious answers like healthcare and grocery stores, many have been wondering what exactly the essential services are. Ahead, we've compiled the full list from the state to make this difficult time a bit easier.
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Policy

New York State expands 90-day eviction moratorium to commercial tenants

Photo by Krisztina Papp on Unsplash

March 20, 2020

New York State expands 90-day eviction moratorium to commercial tenants

By Dana Schulz

In a press conference this morning in which Governor Cuomo issued the tightest shut-down measures yet, he announced that the State of New York would be expanding its 90-day moratorium on evictions to commercial tenants. After New York City took the step last week to stop eviction proceedings for 90 days, the State of New York on Monday halted residential eviction proceedings indefinitely. With this now expanded to commercial tenants for 90 days, there is a bit more hope for the city's struggling small businesses and restaurants.
READ MORE

Photo credit: Julia Gillard with MW Studio, Courtesy of Compass

March 20, 2020

$749K Upper West Side one-bedroom is a brownstone beauty

By Dana Schulz

When you've got beautiful brownstone features like a huge bay window, crown moldings, and a classical fireplace, you don't want to compete with the architecture but you also want to find a design aesthetic that enhances these details. Which is exactly what's on view at this one-bedroom Upper West Side co-op at 111 West 82nd Street. For $749,000, not only is it easy on the eyes but the apartment has a spacious and efficient layout that would make for a great starter home.
Have a look

Distinctive Homes

Get Park Avenue elegance for just $625K at this Upper East side co-op

Photo credit: Chalom + Blaylock Photography, Courtesy of Compass

March 19, 2020

Get Park Avenue elegance for just $625K at this Upper East side co-op

By Dana Schulz

Located just off Park Avenue at 115 East 90th Street, this one-bedroom co-op has all the uptown elegance at a fraction of the price. Asking 625,000, the Upper East Side gem has tons of pre-war charm in the form of picture moldings, large windows, and an efficient layout. There's also a surprising amount of closet space and a brand new kitchen and bathroom.
See more

Distinctive Homes

‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ returns for one night to support The Actors Fund

Photo by Sudan Ouyang on Unsplash

March 19, 2020

‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ returns for one night to support The Actors Fund

By Dana Schulz

With all Broadway, Off-Broadway, and any type of performance suspended through at least April 12th, Broadway.com is bringing back The Rosie O'Donnell Show for one night to benefit The Actors Fund. When her show was on air from 1996 to 2002, O'Donnell was a strong advocate for performance arts and often showcased Broadway ensembles performing numbers from their shows. The one-night event will take place on Sunday, March 22 at 7:00 p.m. and will be live-streamed on Broadway.com and Broadway.com's YouTube channel.
Find out who's performing

Events & Things To Do

March 19, 2020

A historic Crown Heights Kinko House has hit the market for $1.6M

By Dana Schulz

What's a Kinko House you may ask? First off, the name comes from the developer--Kings and Westchester Land Company--who built them in the northern section of Crown Heights between 1905 and 1912, according to Brownstoner. Designed by architecture firm Mann & MacNeille, the two-family houses are unique in that each unit has its own front door, stairway, porch, and cellar. Each group of six houses also has its own architectural style, and 1040 Sterling Place, which just hit the market for $1,625,000, was done in a brick Arts and Crafts style. This home is being sold with both duplex units, so a new owner could potentially combine them for one large residence.
Find out more about this rare house

All articles by Dana Schulz

Javits Center will now provide 2,500 COVID beds

20 NYC hotels sign on as temporary hospitals, will add 10,000 beds

Cast iron accents and a glassed-in loft bring the drama to this $750K Gramercy co-op

Could Mount Sinai’s new self-reporting app help map coronavirus in NYC?

$9.9M Chelsea penthouse has Empire State Building and Hudson Yards views

De Blasio’s open street pilot gets extended through Sunday

For $1.75M, a corner Battery Park condo with direct Freedom Tower views

For $3.9M, this Prospect Park South Dutch Colonial has an ‘enchanted forest’ and 7 bedrooms

Inside the 1,000-bed temporary hospital at the Javits Center

19 windows and a bohemian vibe make this $1.8M West Village loft a keeper

NYC removed 80 basketball hoops from parks

Cobble Hill townhouse with European flair can be your ‘temporary paradise’ for $21K/month

$2.6M Williamsburg penthouse has a rooftop cabana and a private parking spot

NYC is asking community spaces to sign up as possible emergency management centers

Meet the 7,000 ‘Invisible Hands’ delivering essentials to at-risk New Yorkers

This $8.75M Village townhouse is a downtown dream home with an elevator, three terraces, and a rooftop office suite

$5.85M Tudor ‘castle’ in Westchester has a fireplace from the Vanderbilts and church bells from France

In the South Bronx, affordable housing lottery opens for 31 mixed-income units near Yankee Stadium

Rich colors and a classic reno define this $2.9M Upper East Side co-op

Governor Cuomo says NYC must develop an immediate plan to address density issues in parks

The full list of New York’s essential services

New York State expands 90-day eviction moratorium to commercial tenants

$749K Upper West Side one-bedroom is a brownstone beauty

Get Park Avenue elegance for just $625K at this Upper East side co-op

‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ returns for one night to support The Actors Fund

A historic Crown Heights Kinko House has hit the market for $1.6M

9 DeKalb Avenue in Downtown Brooklyn

All articles by Dana Schulz

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