Architecture And Design

Riverside Park opens new section with playgrounds, volleyball, lawns, and more

Photo courtesy of the Riverside Park Conservancy

October 23, 2020

Riverside Park opens new section with playgrounds, volleyball, lawns, and more

Yesterday, the fifth phase of Riverside Park South opened to the public. The 4.6-acre area stretches from West 65th to 68th Streets and includes new paths, stairs, and plazas; a playground and swings; lawns; sand volleyball courts; and a dog run. As West Side Rag tells us, the $21.1 million project--which was completed with federal, state, and private funds--was originally planned to open in 2018.
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Architecture And Design

Just 20 miles outside NYC, this 18th-century New Jersey home and barn asks $4M

Photo credit: Jump Visual

October 23, 2020

Just 20 miles outside NYC, this 18th-century New Jersey home and barn asks $4M

By Dana Schulz

Earlier this year, the New York Times called Wyckoff, New Jersey "a peaceful suburb with a sense of community," and noted that the Bergen County town has been seeing "an influx of young families, who value its small-town atmosphere and relatively low taxes." This Wyckoff property may not be a starter home, but its $3,950,000 price tag gets you a piece of history set on four acres. The main residence, formerly known as the Halstead House, was built in 1779 and has been perfectly preserved over the years. There's also a renovated barn, a guest cottage, and a pool, all set against a beautiful pond.
See the whole place here

Archtober’s annual gourd-carving Pumpkitecture event is virtual and open to everyone

BIG Architects designing their masterpiece; Photo by Daniel Cole for Center for Architecture

October 20, 2020

Archtober’s annual gourd-carving Pumpkitecture event is virtual and open to everyone

By Devin Gannon

Every year, New York City-based architecture firms face off in a spirited pumpkin carving competition in quest of the PritzkerPumpkin prize. This year, because of the coronavirus pandemic and restrictions on gatherings, Pumpkitecture will take place virtually. And the contest won't be limited to just architects and designers, but anyone with an "eerie eye for design" can enter.
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First look at New York City’s largest private outdoor garden at One Manhattan Square

All photos courtesy of Evan Joseph

October 9, 2020

First look at New York City’s largest private outdoor garden at One Manhattan Square

By Devin Gannon

New photos of the sprawling outdoor space at condo tower One Manhattan Square were released this week, providing a first peek at what developers say is the largest private garden in New York City. Designed by landscape architecture firm West 8, the green space measures 45,000 square feet, sits on an incline, and boasts unique features like a furnished adult treehouse and a Japanese-inspired tea pavilion.
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Industry leaders discuss future of post-pandemic NYC during two-day ‘City of Tomorrow’ summit

Credit: Thomas Heatherwick Studio

October 9, 2020

Industry leaders discuss future of post-pandemic NYC during two-day ‘City of Tomorrow’ summit

By Devin Gannon

The past seven months fighting the coronavirus in New York City have laid bare the inequalities that exist in housing, infrastructure, open space access, and wellness. How can the largest city in the United States sustainably recover after COVID-19 while prioritizing the health of all of its residents? Industry leaders will explore this topic and the future of the city during a two-day virtual summit this month hosted by 92nd Street Y and Hundred Stories. The fourth annual "City of Tomorrow: Building a Better Future" summit will take place virtually on October 13 and October 14, with all talks free for the public to view.
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Photo Credit: Gamut Photos for Sotheby’s International Realty

October 6, 2020

$2.75M Prospect Lefferts Gardens mansion is dripping with pre-war opulence

By Dana Schulz

It's not every day a mansion like this comes to the market in Brooklyn, especially at a $1.25 million discount. The incredible Renaissance Revival-style, limestone home in Prospect Lefferts Gardens first listed for $4 million in 2018, but the price has now come down to $2.75 million. Located at 125 Maple Street, it's full of opulent, pre-war details like stained glass windows, elaborate moldings and ceiling medallions, and regal columns galore. Plus, there's the sheer size of it--the home spans just about 6,000 square feet and has five bedrooms.
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10th annual Archtober kicks off in NYC with virtual and in-person design events

Little Island May 2020 © CityRealty

September 29, 2020

10th annual Archtober kicks off in NYC with virtual and in-person design events

By Devin Gannon

New York City's annual month-long celebration of architecture and design returns to the five boroughs this week. In its 10th year, Archtober offers hundreds of architect-led building tours, lectures by design experts, and exploration of lesser-known wonders of New York's built environment every day during the month of October. Like everything else, this year's festival will look a bit different because of the coronavirus pandemic, with virtual talks and tours, self-led activities, and socially-distanced in-person events.
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Empire State Building’s Art Deco spire returns in all its glory after restoration

Progress of the restoration; Courtesy of the Empire State Realty Trust

September 25, 2020

Empire State Building’s Art Deco spire returns in all its glory after restoration

By Devin Gannon

What's old is new again. The iconic spire of the Empire State Building has returned to its original 1931 silhouette following a year-long restoration. The Empire State Realty Trust removed a network of archaic antennas and other unnecessary material found between floors 88 and 103 from the mooring mast, providing an obstacle-free look at the skyscraper's unique 200-foot Art Deco pinnacle.
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Architecture And Design

This big, beautiful Victorian in Newburgh is asking just $650K

Photo by Roy Savage

September 24, 2020

This big, beautiful Victorian in Newburgh is asking just $650K

By Dana Schulz

The city of Newburgh, about an hour-and-a-half drive from Manhattan, often gets a bad rap for its past crime statistics. But in recent years, shops and restaurants have been sprouting up, the arts scene is booming, preservation groups are working to save the wealth of historic mansions, and the relatively affordable housing stock is enticing buyers. Take, for example, this 1875 Victorian home. It's over 3,500 square feet, is beautifully preserved, and overlooks the Hudson River and Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site. And it's asking just $650,000.
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Futuristic tower proposed for Roosevelt Island is 2,400 feet and covered in 10,000+ plants

All renderings via Rescubika Studio

September 23, 2020

Futuristic tower proposed for Roosevelt Island is 2,400 feet and covered in 10,000+ plants

By Dana Schulz

In response to the idea of the "city of tomorrow," one that will become carbon neutral by 2050, French architecture firm Rescubika created a proposal for a 2,418-foot tower on Roosevelt Island. With wood construction materials, 36 wind turbines, 8,300 shrubs, 1,600 trees, 83,000 square feet of plant walls, and nearly 23,000 square feet of solar panels, it would be the world’s tallest "carbon sink" tower--one that absorbs more CO2 than it releases.
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See the ambitious proposal for a climate change research center on Governors Island

By Devin Gannon

Plans to bring a climate change research center on Governors Island are moving ahead. The Trust for Governors Island on Thursday unveiled a proposal for a new research center that would be dedicated to studying the impacts of climate change and serve as a platform for environmental justice organizations and solutions-based public programs. The project involves rezoning the southern end of the island to make space for up to about 4 million square feet of development. The rezoning proposal is expected to enter the city's formal public land-use review process next month.
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Architecture And Design

ODA Architects bring their signature boxy aesthetic to new 14th Street condo

Renderings via ODA Architecture

September 17, 2020

ODA Architects bring their signature boxy aesthetic to new 14th Street condo

By Dana Schulz

ODA Architecture has made its mark all over the city, and it's easy to tell when a project bears their name thanks to the firm's signature boxy aesthetic, often filled with cantilevers and stacked volumes. Their latest project--a boutique condo at 101 West 14th Street--is no exception. The mixed-use development on the corner of Sixth Avenue features 44 residential units, half of which will be duplexes, as well as retail space at street level.
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Morris Adjmi’s mixed-use towers top out in Dumbo

Rendering by Williams New York

September 16, 2020

Morris Adjmi’s mixed-use towers top out in Dumbo

By Devin Gannon

Architect Morris Adjmi's latest residential project officially topped out in Dumbo last month. A former parking lot, 85 Jay Street is now home to two sleek 21-story towers comprised of residential units and space for retail. Dubbed Front & York, the complex will bring a mix of 728 condo and rental units to a full block in the neighborhood when it opens next year, making it one of the largest developments in Dumbo. Current availability for the condos ranges from a one-bedroom for $965,000 to a four-bedroom penthouse for $7.85 million.
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New York Botanical Garden’s landmarked glass conservatory reopens after $18M restoration

Photo courtesy of the New York Botanical Garden

September 15, 2020

New York Botanical Garden’s landmarked glass conservatory reopens after $18M restoration

By Devin Gannon

The palm dome of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory at the New York Botanical Garden reopened on Monday after an $18 million restoration project. Constructed by Lord & Burnham from 1899 to 1902, the stunning glass greenhouse features 11 galleries with plants from around the world, including the garden's Palms of the World gallery. The Haupt Conservancy, which has been closed since March 15 because of the coronavirus pandemic, will reopen to the public at limited capacity on September 22.
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Architecture And Design

Built in 1693, Sag Harbor’s oldest home lists for $1.5M

Photos courtesy of Compass

September 10, 2020

Built in 1693, Sag Harbor’s oldest home lists for $1.5M

By Dana Schulz

Built 327 years ago, this charming cottage is thought to be the oldest home in Sag Harbor Village, however, it wasn't built in Sag Harbor. According to past listings, the home was actually constructed in Sagaponack and then moved five times before settling in Sag Harbor, where it remains today at 64 Union Street and is asking $1,550,000. The original part of the house retains its exposed ceiling beams, wide-plank wood floors, and two working fireplaces. As a bonus, there's a separate studio structure on the property that would make a great guest house.
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18th-century Sag Harbor home is a mix of history and whimsy for $3M

Photo credit: Mike Heller

September 2, 2020

18th-century Sag Harbor home is a mix of history and whimsy for $3M

By Dana Schulz

This picture-perfect Sag Harbor home was originally built in 1791, and a modern restoration in 2013 brought it "back to its former glory," according to the listing. After spending some time as a $1,950/night vacation rental, the home is now on the market for $2,950,000. Inside, the three-bedroom house mixes historic bones with whimsical details, a combo that is echoed outside, where a pergola-covered dining area and secret garden surround the pool.
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For $990K, this historic Hudson Valley Victorian is for sale for the first time in 100 years

All photos courtesy of Compass

September 1, 2020

For $990K, this historic Hudson Valley Victorian is for sale for the first time in 100 years

By Dana Schulz

It's hard to believe this stunning home is asking under $1 million, but it's even more surprising that it's available for the first time in over a century. Located in the Dutchess County hamlet of New Hamburg, the Victorian home was built in 1860 and underwent a full restoration in 2003. In addition to its great location, wrap-around porch, and tons of preserved historic details, the property comes with a separate guest cottage that's just as lovely.
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There’s a professional hockey rink at this $7.7M Connecticut home

Photo by Ravi Capeles

August 31, 2020

There’s a professional hockey rink at this $7.7M Connecticut home

By Dana Schulz

This unusual home in Stamford, Connecticut is thought to be the only private residence in the Tri-State area with its own private indoor hockey rink. It even comes with a Zamboni, heated team benches, lighted scoreboard, and locker rooms--and it's hosted players from the Rangers. Listed for $7,690,000, the 18,000 square feet home sits on 13 acres and also comes with two guest houses, a pool, and a small lake.
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New IKEA, LEGO collaboration makes it fun to clean up toys

Courtesy of IKEA

August 28, 2020

New IKEA, LEGO collaboration makes it fun to clean up toys

By Devin Gannon

For parents tired of picking up and stepping on their kids' pesky LEGO blocks, a new collaboration between the toy company and IKEA may be a perfect solution. The companies on Thursday unveiled their BYGGLEK collection, which includes a series of storage boxes for kids that have LEGO studs on them, perfect for both storing the toys and playing with them. The collection will be available at IKEA stores beginning October 1.
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$4.5M Mediterranean-style home brings a bit of California living to Westchester

Listing photos courtesy of Houlihan Lawrence

August 25, 2020

$4.5M Mediterranean-style home brings a bit of California living to Westchester

By Dana Schulz

"Santa Barbara comes to Scarsdale," says the listing, and we couldn't agree more. This Mediterranean home in Westchester was built in 1928 in the California stucco style. A pool with a waterfall, multiple terraces, large guest house, and tennis court, complete the west coast picture. The home is on the market for $4,450,000.
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Inside a new luxury Upper West Side condo located on a hidden cul-de-sac

Model residence at 350 West 71st Street; photos courtesy of MW Studio/ Nina Poon

August 24, 2020

Inside a new luxury Upper West Side condo located on a hidden cul-de-sac

By Devin Gannon

The condo building at 350 West 71st Street manages to maintain its historic allure while providing residents all of the perks of modern living. Designed by DXA Studio, the seven-story development on the Upper West Side measures just 75,000 square feet, but still packs in an impressive amenity package, including a library, fitness center, playroom, and large landscaped rooftop with grill and lounge areas. The boutique building sits within the West 71st Historic District, designated 30 years ago for its uniqueness as a tree-lined cul-de-sac and the distinct Beaux-Arts architecture found across the properties.
Take the tour

Courtesy of WATG

August 19, 2020

This is what a landscaped ‘green block’ would look like in the Flatiron District

By Devin Gannon

During the height of the coronavirus pandemic in New York City, fewer cars were on the road, leading to cleaner air and less noise pollution. And with nearly everything temporarily shut down, New Yorkers sought solace in open green spaces, parks, and open streets closed to cars. As the city is in the midst of reopening, WATG, a global multidisciplinary design firm, has proposed a plan to make the streets of New York greener while helping small businesses recover in the process.
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Winning design proposal brings better mobility and biodiverse ‘microforests’ to the Brooklyn Bridge

“Brooklyn Bridge Forest,” Pilot Projects Design Collective, Cities4Forests, Wildlife Conservation Society, Grimshaw and Silman, New York and Montreal

August 18, 2020

Winning design proposal brings better mobility and biodiverse ‘microforests’ to the Brooklyn Bridge

By Devin Gannon

Two proposals have been chosen as the winners of a design contest launched earlier this year that sought ways to improve pedestrian space on the crowded Brooklyn Bridge. The Van Alen Institute and the New York City Council on Monday announced that "Brooklyn Bridge Forest," a design that calls for lots of green space and an expanded wooden walkway, won the professional category. And "Do Look Down," which would add a glass surface above the girders and make space for community events and vendors, took the top prize in the young adult category.
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You can rent a rare carriage house on MacDougal Alley for $10K/month

Photos by Andrew Kiracofe for Sotheby’s International Realty

August 17, 2020

You can rent a rare carriage house on MacDougal Alley for $10K/month

By Dana Schulz

New York City has several hidden mews sprinkled across its mostly gridded landscape, including MacDougal Alley in Greenwich Village. Located just north of Washington Square Park, the gated half-block cul-de-sac was constructed as a stretch of carriage houses to serve the townhouses that lined ritzy Washington Square North. Today, these charming carriage houses remain, and many of them have been transformed into private residences, like this one at number 6 Macdougal Alley. For the first time in 25 years, the nearly 1,800-square-foot red brick home is up for rent, asking $10,000 a month.
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Historic Connecticut estate built by the man behind the Empire State Building lists for $8.3M

All photos courtesy of Houlihan Lawrence

August 5, 2020

Historic Connecticut estate built by the man behind the Empire State Building lists for $8.3M

By Dana Schulz

This sprawling English Manor-style estate in Greenwich, Connecticut was built in 1928 by Paul Starrett, one of the main developers behind the Empire State Building and the Plaza. Set on nearly three acres, the seven-bedroom home has grand interiors, romantic landscaping, and a gorgeous pool. It's just hit the market for $8,295,000.
Have a look around here

Architecture And Design

Riverside Park opens new section with playgrounds, volleyball, lawns, and more

Just 20 miles outside NYC, this 18th-century New Jersey home and barn asks $4M

Archtober’s annual gourd-carving Pumpkitecture event is virtual and open to everyone

First look at New York City’s largest private outdoor garden at One Manhattan Square

Industry leaders discuss future of post-pandemic NYC during two-day ‘City of Tomorrow’ summit

$2.75M Prospect Lefferts Gardens mansion is dripping with pre-war opulence

10th annual Archtober kicks off in NYC with virtual and in-person design events

Empire State Building’s Art Deco spire returns in all its glory after restoration

This big, beautiful Victorian in Newburgh is asking just $650K

Futuristic tower proposed for Roosevelt Island is 2,400 feet and covered in 10,000+ plants

See the ambitious proposal for a climate change research center on Governors Island

ODA Architects bring their signature boxy aesthetic to new 14th Street condo

Morris Adjmi’s mixed-use towers top out in Dumbo

New York Botanical Garden’s landmarked glass conservatory reopens after $18M restoration

Built in 1693, Sag Harbor’s oldest home lists for $1.5M

A grown-up townhouse with a Bushwick address–and a koi pond–asks $2M

18th-century Sag Harbor home is a mix of history and whimsy for $3M

For $990K, this historic Hudson Valley Victorian is for sale for the first time in 100 years

There’s a professional hockey rink at this $7.7M Connecticut home

New IKEA, LEGO collaboration makes it fun to clean up toys

$4.5M Mediterranean-style home brings a bit of California living to Westchester

Inside a new luxury Upper West Side condo located on a hidden cul-de-sac

This is what a landscaped ‘green block’ would look like in the Flatiron District

Winning design proposal brings better mobility and biodiverse ‘microforests’ to the Brooklyn Bridge

You can rent a rare carriage house on MacDougal Alley for $10K/month

Historic Connecticut estate built by the man behind the Empire State Building lists for $8.3M

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