Architecture And Design

The Tribeca Habitat Enhancement Project announced it has completed what has been the largest habitat enhancement project to date, and the first large-scale restoration initiative in Hudson River Park's 400-acre Estuarine Sanctuary between Pier 26 and Pier 34. A key indicator of the project's success: the installation of 11.2 million juvenile oysters to help support marine life in the Hudson River.
Many oysters, this way

Architecture And Design

Get a first look inside the tallest tower in Brooklyn

All renderings courtesy of Gabriel Saunders unless otherwise noted.

December 13, 2021

Get a first look inside the tallest tower in Brooklyn

After officially becoming Brooklyn's tallest building in October, the Brooklyn Tower is now showing off its sumptuous interiors. When the 1,066-foot-tall tower, the first and only supertall in the borough, opens at 9 DeKalb Avenue next year, there will be 550 total residences, with 150 condos for sales and 400 rentals. New images provide a sneak peek of the interiors designed by Gachot Studio, which was able to manipulate the tower's unique hexagonal shape for sweeping incomparable city views.
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New interactive installation in Flatiron asks New Yorkers to dream together

Photos by Martin Seck for the Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership

November 30, 2021

New interactive installation in Flatiron asks New Yorkers to dream together

A new public art installation opened in the Flatiron Public Plaza as part of the neighborhood's yearly "23 Days of Flatiron Cheer" event. This year's artwork, called Interwoven, comes from design firm Atelier Cho Thompson and features colorful interactive archways. When two or more people pass through sensors of the same color, corresponding lights and musical compositions by local artists are activated. Interwoven, selected by the Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership and Van Alen Institute as the winner of the eighth annual Flatiron Public Plaza Holiday Design Competition, also has a story wall that invites New Yorkers to share responses to the prompt: "I dream of a world where together we can…"
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Sales launch for net-zero custom-built homes in the Catskill Mountains for under $1M

Photo: James Karpowicz

November 23, 2021

Sales launch for net-zero custom-built homes in the Catskill Mountains for under $1M

One of the greenest new residential developments in New York launched sales recently, offering eco-conscious buyers a chance to custom design an energy-efficient dream home in the mountains. Located in Livingston Manor across 90 acres in the Catskill Mountains, The Catskill Project will feature 11 single-family homes designed to meet Passive House standards. Buyers will choose from three unique designs for their home, all of which will include solar energy and the opportunity for eco upgrades. Pricing starts at $895,000 for two-bedroom homes and $945,000 for three-bedrooms.
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See billionaire Bill Ackman’s plan for a glass house atop a historic UWS building

All renderings designed by Foster+ Partners, courtesy of the Landmarks Preservation Commission

November 17, 2021

See billionaire Bill Ackman’s plan for a glass house atop a historic UWS building

A plan funded by one of the world's wealthiest people and designed by one of the world's most famous architects still can't get approved in New York City. Billionaire Bill Ackman on Tuesday presented to the Landmarks Preservation Commission his plan to construct a new glass penthouse addition designed by Norman Foster on top of a 100-year-old Upper West Side co-op building where he owns an apartment. After hours-long public testimony, LPC Chair Sarah Carroll sent Ackman and his team back to the drawing board, calling for a scaled-down design.
See it here

Once home to NYC’s 93rd mayor, this stately $3.5M Princeton, NJ home is both historic and welcoming

Image courtesy of C

November 15, 2021

Once home to NYC’s 93rd mayor, this stately $3.5M Princeton, NJ home is both historic and welcoming

allaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty The understated estate on beautifully landscaped grounds at 12 Battle Road overlooking Princeton University’s Graduate College anchors one of the town's finest residential streets. It's an address befitting the home's original owner, George B. McClellan, Jr., former congressman and the 93rd mayor of New York City. The three-story house (plus a one-bedroom apartment atop the home's three-car garage), on the market for $3.5 million, strikes a balance between magnificent historic details–like the same marble tiles used in Grand Central Station in the entry hall–and livable 21st-century luxury.
Tour the house and grounds

A Brooklyn edition of Monopoly is now available

Photo courtesy of Top Trumps USA

November 9, 2021

A Brooklyn edition of Monopoly is now available

A new edition of the classic board game Monopoly replaces the famous Atlantic City squares with beloved landmarks of Brooklyn. Making its debut Tuesday, Monopoly Brooklyn Edition features historic landmarks, like the Brooklyn Bridge and Soldiers Sailors Memorial Arch, entertainment spots, including Coney Island and Barclays Center, cultural institutions, like Weeksville Heritage Center and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and many more destinations.
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One of Manhattan’s most ornate office building lobbies is now a NYC landmark

Photo: George Comfort & Sons via Landmarks Preservation Commission

November 9, 2021

One of Manhattan’s most ornate office building lobbies is now a NYC landmark

One of Manhattan's grandest lobbies is officially a New York City landmark. The Landmarks Preservation Commission voted to designate the ornate, T-shaped first-floor lobby of 200 Madison Avenue on Tuesday. Designed by Warren & Wetmore in 1925--the firm behind Grand Central Terminal--the Murray Hill lobby features a 200-foot-long through-block arcade that boasts a beautiful vaulted ceiling, polished marble walls, and other stunning elements reflective of the era.
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The 24 best places to shop for mid-century modern furniture online

Hay Quilton Sofa. Image courtesy of Hay.

October 29, 2021

The 24 best places to shop for mid-century modern furniture online

Lovers of mid-20th-century modern design have never had so many options. Vintage and new versions of designs that defined the century, from Art Deco to '80s-style Memphis–often with a focus on Scandinavian aesthetics and 1950s "Atomic Age"–can be found everywhere from e-Bay to trendy High Street stores like CB2. Vintage treasures from gallery-level to quirky bargains abound online. And many of the best designs are still in production today, available from sources that specialize in finding that perfect Prouve dining table or Togo sofa, genuine or "inspired by." Below you'll find enough sources to make your modernist dream interior a reality–without a trip to Denmark or a time machine.
A modern furniture bonanza, this way

Brooklyn’s tallest tower tops out at 1,066 feet, becomes borough’s first supertall

The tallest tower in Brooklyn officially topped out this week. Located at 9 DeKalb Avenue, newly christened The Brooklyn Tower reached its summit of 1,066 feet, the first and only supertall building (300 meters in height or taller) to rise in the borough. Developed by JDS Development Group and designed by SHoP Architects, the mixed-use tower incorporates the landmarked Dime Savings Bank of Brooklyn into both the skyscraper's design and use; the iconic bank building will hold new retail space and an entry to the residential tower through its colonnade. With occupancy expected next year, the 93-story Brooklyn Tower offers 550 residences, with 150 condos for sale and 400 rentals.
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After $5M restoration, NYC’s historic Highbridge Water Tower reopens for public tours

Photo by Shinya Suzuki on Flickr

October 27, 2021

After $5M restoration, NYC’s historic Highbridge Water Tower reopens for public tours

Described in 1967 by the Landmarks Preservation Commission as "one of Manhattan's most picturesque architectural monuments," the Highbridge Water Tower reopened on Wednesday following a restoration project. Located in Washington Heights, the octagonal tower opened in 1872 and served as part of the Croton Aqueduct system, helping increase water pressure throughout the borough. While it no longer is part of the city's water system, the 200-foot landmark is the only one of its kind that remains today. The Parks Department also announced free public tours of the inside of the tower led by the department's Urban Park Rangers will resume next month.
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Six blocks of Broadway will become Manhattan’s largest shared street as part of open space plan

Mayor Bill de Blasio and DOT Commissioner Hank Gutman cut the ribbon on new open space on Broadway in the Flatiron District on Monday, October 25, 2021. Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office.

October 26, 2021

Six blocks of Broadway will become Manhattan’s largest shared street as part of open space plan

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Department of Transportation Commissioner Hank Gutman have announced more improvements coming to the city's streets, including six blocks of Broadway that will be fully dedicated to pedestrians or modified so that cars, cyclists, and pedestrians can share the street. The DOT’s “Broadway Vision” will reimagine 12 blocks of the Manhattan street as shared public street space.
Find out more of what's coming to the streets

First-ever hotel on wheels to open in the Hudson Valley this winter

All photos by David Mitchell

October 26, 2021

First-ever hotel on wheels to open in the Hudson Valley this winter

The world's first hotel on wheels is set to debut in the Hudson Valley this winter. The New York-based startup company Moliving Inc. revealed earlier this year its first model unit, which measures roughly 400 square feet and includes two outdoor decks. The company believes the movable luxury hotel rooms, which are designed to be easily installed and relocated, offer hoteliers the opportunity to build hotels faster, more sustainably, and to adjust room inventory according to seasonal demand.
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For $10.5M, a 19th-century carriage house in Greenwich Village’s historic Washington Mews

All photos courtesy of Douglas Elliman

October 22, 2021

For $10.5M, a 19th-century carriage house in Greenwich Village’s historic Washington Mews

A former carriage house located on one of New York City's most special blocks hit the market this week. Located between Fifth Avenue and University Place in Greenwich Village, Washington Mews is a private cobblestone street, lined with two-story carriage houses. The three-bedroom property at 64 Washington Mews, which dates to the 1840s, has been renovated, but maintains "the integrity of its rich past," according to the listing. It's asking $10,475,000.
Take the tour

NYC’s newest observation deck Summit One Vanderbilt officially opens

Photos courtesy of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

October 22, 2021

NYC’s newest observation deck Summit One Vanderbilt officially opens

Midtown's tallest office tower opened its observation deck this week, adding to the city's ever-growing list of sky-high, for-sale spectacles. Designed by Snøhetta, One Vanderbilt's Summit stretches across floors 91 through 93 at the 1,401-foot-tall tower and offers incredible views across a 65,000-square-foot multi-level entertainment venue about 1,000 feet in the air. Tickets start at $39 for general admission and climb to $83 for evening admission that comes with a cocktail.
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Sales launch at curvy Olympia Dumbo, to be tallest and priciest condo in the neighborhood

Renderings courtesy of Marchmade

October 15, 2021

Sales launch at curvy Olympia Dumbo, to be tallest and priciest condo in the neighborhood

The curvy, twisting tower rising in Dumbo launched sales this week, with condos starting at $1.75 million. Developed by Fortis Property Group and designed by Hill West Architects, Olympia Dumbo contains 76 residences ranging from one- to five-bedroom apartments. According to a spokesperson for the project, the building's top-floor penthouses, which will list for $16 million and $15.5 million, could become the neighborhood's most expensive condos ever sold if they sell at the asking prices.
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See David Chipperfield’s plans to renovate the historic townhouse at 1014 Fifth Avenue

Image © Sebastian Kaempf, KARO Architects

October 14, 2021

See David Chipperfield’s plans to renovate the historic townhouse at 1014 Fifth Avenue

From October 14 through October 17, cultural organization 1014 will introduce the public to prize-winning architect David Chipperfield's plans for the renovation of an Upper East Side historic and cultural gem at 1014 Fifth Avenue. Built in 1907 and flanked by two 15-story apartment buildings, the Beaux-Arts townhouse faces the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The renowned British architect was chosen in 2020 to design the building's future form after an international competition that included some of the field's most noted names. This weekend “1014 Past and Future” and related programming are taking place as part of Archtober and Open House New York.
Find out more about this unique global cultural hub

Brooklyn Public Library opens new branch under the Manhattan Bridge in Dumbo

All photos by Gregg Richards

October 13, 2021

Brooklyn Public Library opens new branch under the Manhattan Bridge in Dumbo

At the Brooklyn Public Library's newest branch, reading comes with a view. The library opened the Adams Street Library in Dumbo this week, marking the first new library built in the borough in nearly 40 years and the first branch to open in the neighborhood. Bordering Brooklyn Bridge Park and tucked underneath the Manhattan Bridge, the library has 15-foot windows that face the East River and lower Manhattan skyline.
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Yelp and Chasing Paper have a new wallpaper highlighting small businesses in NYC

Photo courtesy of Chasing Paper

October 6, 2021

Yelp and Chasing Paper have a new wallpaper highlighting small businesses in NYC

Yelp has teamed up with home decor brand Chasing Paper to create a series of three wallpaper prints featuring beloved small businesses in San Francisco, NYC, and Austin, with 10 percent of proceeds benefitting a select charity in each city. The New York City print highlights spots like Amy Ruth's, Di Fara Pizza, Jim's Shoe Repair, and Books are Magic, and its sales will support Hot Bread Kitchen. The trio of fun wallpapers was designed by Amanda Giuffre of Noun New York.
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September 30, 2021

A 24-ton stone sphere is hanging in the lobby of Philip Johnson’s 550 Madison Avenue tower

A massive blue spherical stone now hangs in the lobby of the landmarked office building 550 Madison Avenue, part of a broader project to revitalize Philip Johnson's postmodern gem. The Olayan Group on Wednesday unveiled the renovated space, a project which included preserving the 110-foot arched entry, adding a multi-story window across from the entrance with views through to the new garden, still under construction, and the centerpiece art commission. Designed by artist Alicja Kwade, who had a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's roof garden in 2019, the art installation includes a 24-ton Azul Macaubas stone sphere hanging from ten polished stainless steel chains only 12 feet above the floor.
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Mixed-use development Manhattan West officially opens today, revealing restaurants, open space, and more

Photo Credit: Jakob Dahlin

September 28, 2021

Mixed-use development Manhattan West officially opens today, revealing restaurants, open space, and more

Following more than 30 years of planning, Brookfield Properties' eight-acre mixed-use development Manhattan West officially opens today. Located on the blocks between 32nd and 33rd Streets and Ninth and Tenth Avenues, the $4.5 billion project serves as a much-needed link on the far west side, bordered by the new Moynihan Train Hall to the east, Hudson Yards to the West, and the High Line to the south. Manhattan West's master plan was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and consists of six buildings--four office, one residential, and one boutique hotel. There's also a 2.5-acre public plaza designed by James Corner Field Operations, as well as a Whole Foods, immersive retail, and tons of restaurants including two from Danny Meyer.
See it all here

On Washington Heights’ hidden Sylvan Terrace, a modernized wooden rowhouse asks $1.8M

Listing photos by Scott Wintrow/Gamut Photos

September 22, 2021

On Washington Heights’ hidden Sylvan Terrace, a modernized wooden rowhouse asks $1.8M

New York City has a few hidden mews sprinkled throughout, one of which is Sylvan Terrace in Washington Heights. The one-block cobblestone stretch was originally the carriage drive for the adjacent Morris Jumel Mansion, and in the 1880s, 20 wooden rowhouses were constructed along it to serve as housing for working-class locals. A rare opportunity, the home at number 8 has just hit the market for $1,795,000. The current owner, who bought the property back in 1998 for just $135,000, is designer Tom Givone, who modernized the two-bedroom house to have a rustic-contemporary style that's even been featured in Dwell.
See the whole place

First look at Robert A.M. Stern and Olson Kundig’s new Chelsea condo tower on the Hudson

All renderings courtesy of Related Companies

September 21, 2021

First look at Robert A.M. Stern and Olson Kundig’s new Chelsea condo tower on the Hudson

The renowned teams of Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) and Olson Kundig have teamed up for a new condo project in Chelsea and ahead of its official launch later this fall, we're getting a first look inside. Located across the street from Hudson River Park at 555 West 22nd Street, The Cortland is a 25-story building with 144 total units. RAMSA designed the exterior of the condo and Olson Kundig handled the interiors, combining their distinguished architecture styles in one impressive waterfront development.
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Famed London steakhouse Hawksmoor opens in Gramercy’s historic United Charities Building

All photos courtesy of Hawksmoor

September 21, 2021

Famed London steakhouse Hawksmoor opens in Gramercy’s historic United Charities Building