Embracing Nature: A Look at NYC Buildings Boasting Custom Woodwork

The trend of wood in interior design is no longer confined to floors or rustic log cabins; now, New York City buildings are embracing it to clad their walls and ceilings, introducing warmth and welcoming into common spaces. From lobbies to lounges, the quality of the material adds an elevated, cozy experience that celebrates nature and craftsmanship. Several NYC buildings exemplify this trend.

212 West 72nd Street

Reimagined by the award-winning architecture firm, CetraRuddy, this luxury condominium at the Upper West Side showcases a striking lobby with dramatic wooden panels. The woodwork accentuates the curvature of the interior, creating an ambient atmosphere that merges high design with a welcoming ambiance. (Photography by Jason Schmitz)

200 East 59th Street

With CetraRuddy as the architects, this terraced tower merges nature with modernity. The residents' lounge is adorned with wood walls, standing in fascinating contrast to the floor-to-ceiling glass of the building's exterior.

Front & York

Situated in DUMBO, this full-service luxury urban oasis designed by Morris Adjmi features a statement-making lobby with an elegant wood wall that perfectly complements the terrazzo flooring and Venetian plastered walls. (Photography by Colin Miller)

Tribeca Green

Housing 265 stylish residences, Tribeca Green presents a lobby that is a wood-crafted jewel box, complete with warm cove ceiling lighting. The wood permeates the space, creating an elevated atmosphere that merges contemporary design with a historic feel. (Photography by Colin Miller)

96+Broadway

Positioned perfectly in the Upper West Side, this luxury condominium building highlights a grand 75-foot saltwater pool surrounded by geometric Hemlock wood paneling and travertine floors, creating a sauna-inspired experience. (Photography by We are Visuals)

These examples highlight the recent shift in taste from minimalism to the celebration of nature and craftsmanship. For more insights on why woodwork resonates with today's buyers, developers and brokers can provide expert commentary.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

From Rooftops to Honey Pots: The Buzz about Beekeeping in Manhattan

Discover how the concrete jungle of Manhattan is transformed into a buzzing haven for urban beekeeping. As the pandemic has sparked new hobbies, beekeeping has become a surprising trend among New Yorkers, and some residential buildings are taking advantage of their rooftops to create their own apiaries. Not only does this bring nature to the city, but it also produces honey for residents and tenants. In this article, we showcase four environmentally-friendly buildings that prioritize biophilia by incorporating greenery and outdoor spaces. Learn how these buildings promote the human need to connect with nature, and how living among the bees can help reduce stress levels in the bustling city.

The Solaire, Battery Park City

Credit Evan Joseph

The Solaire, Manhattan’s premier green building featuring LEED-certified residences in the heart of Battery Park City, has had beehives on the roof for over five years, looked after by Best Bees. In 2022, Best Bees was able to harvest 56.2 pounds of honey from the 20,000 bees populating two beehives on the roof of The Solaire. The green building gives out jars of the bee’s honey to all prospective buyers and residents of the building! 

And bees or no bees, the building has been a major success. With over 100 residences in contract and closed, sales and marketing firm Corcoran Sunshine announced that The Solaire was the top-selling new development property in Manhattan in 2022.

“The Solaire is committed to fostering sustainable practices in the building, and the introduction of a rooftop apiary five years ago has been a fun and creative way to interact with our Battery Park City ecosystem,” says Corcoran Sunshine’s Aaron Goed, Director of Sales at The Solaire. "Best Bees manages and harvests honey from the handcrafted rooftop apiary so we can give jars of our own honey to prospective buyers at the building, who appreciate the personal touch and the unique connection to our surrounding green spaces in the neighborhood.”

The Starrett-Lehigh Building, West Chelsea

The famous Starrett-Lehigh Building in West Chelsea, owned by RXR, has a whole urban farm on its roof, including beehives run by an army of volunteer tenants who can keep track of their building’s hive through a special portal by urban beekeeping company Alvéole, who has has 116 million bees in their “bee portfolio.” The garden on top of Starrett-Lehigh has perennial flowers and bushes like Joe Pye weed, echinacea and Budlia for the bees. RXR is a huge proponent of supporting biodiversity in urban areas- approximately 450,000 bees live in nine hives across seven of their buildings in 2023. The program has been so popular that RXR is adding beehives to their properties at Pier57, 230 Park, 32 Old Slip, and 75 Rockefeller. 

RXR uses their beehives to educate and engage with the community and their building tenants, many of whom are looking for fun reasons to return to the office. For example, on National Tea Day, RXR gifted tenants jars of honey from their hives, coupled with a tea tasting with their partners at Brooklyn Tea. 

11 Hoyt, Downtown Brooklyn

11 Hoyt, designed by the renowned Jeanne Gang, features a nearly 27,000-square-feet elevated private park. What makes this unique is that the park includes multiple flower gardens, all strategically featuring native flowers that draw in monarch butterflies during their yearly migration through NYC. If that wasn't cool enough, the park also includes a butterfly-themed playground where young residents can enjoy running and climbing a giant caterpillar and butterfly jungle-gym. Hollander Design is responsible for the thoughtful landscape design and envisioned it to be an experiential park with thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces ideal for a wide array of activities including exercise and play, as well as zones for relaxation and contemplation. Residents can enjoy an alfresco barbecue, meditative yoga on the fitness deck, an invigorating dip in the outdoor hot tub or even take their furry friends to the private dog park.

Flatiron House, Flatiron

Credit River Film

Flatiron House comprises two distinct buildings connected by a shared interior garden with a total of 44 residences. With architecture and interiors by COOKFOX Architects, a leader in biophilic design, the development utilizes a number of guiding principles that promote health, wellbeing, and indoor-outdoor living.

Residence 21A is one of the homes outfitted with a self-watering irrigation system under each window to allow plants to bloom and grow through the 222-square-foot balcony’s latticework. The loggia (covered terrace) in 21A is accessible via the living room, primary corner bedroom, and secondary bedrooms. Designed in collaboration with Brooklyn-based landscape architect Future Green Studio, plant species will be included in the home, such as periwinkle, thyme, oregano, lavender, alpine strawberries, and lowbush blueberries. The planting choices are very specific and based on a Mediterranean approach to be edible, fragrant and open to regular sun exposure.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Escape the Concrete Jungle: Discover Iconic Tree-Lined Streets in Manhattan Apartments

In New York City, or “the concrete jungle,” it's pretty safe to say the main attraction is not the flora and the fauna. But part of Manhattan’s charm is stumbling on one of the select iconic and charming tree-lined streets in the city. These glamorous tree-lined blocks can be the ultimate refresh after being overwhelmed by the towering buildings! 

From these apartments, enjoy all the perks of the bustling city with your own tree-lined block right outside your front door as an oasis: 

225 East 19th Street, Apt 403, $2,499,000

Listed by agent Danielle Darah, agent Jane Katz and broker Annie Cion Gruenberger of Coldwell Banker Warburg. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment is located in one of the city's most coveted neighborhoods at The Prewar at Gramercy Square, on a centrally located, tree-lined street. Amenities include a La Palestra gym, a golf simulator, a screening room, a catering kitchen, landscaped outdoor spaces, and more! Inside the apartment, enjoy top-of-the-line appliances such as a Sub-Zero fridge, a GE washer and dryer, and a Bosch dishwasher. The unit also includes glamorous features such as bathrooms with radiant heated flooring, UV-treated windows with motorized shades, and solid oak wood flooring throughout. 

28-30 West 74th Street, Apt 3C/4C - $2,000,000

Listed by broker Svetlana Choi of Coldwell Banker Warburg. This two-bedroom (can be converted to three), two-and-a-half-bathroom apartment is located on the Upper West Side in a prewar elevator building on a charming tree-lined street, so you get to enjoy the greenery even on your short walk to Central Park. Beyond its fabulous location, this unit also features two working fireplaces, two bedrooms with ensuite baths, and an expansive 400-square-foot terrace perfect for enjoying the fresh spring air or entertaining guests! 

150 East 69th St, Apt 17J, $1,595,000

Listed by broker Rebecca Blacker, broker Arlene Reed, and agent Monisha S. Rana of Coldwell Banker Warburg. Located on the Upper East Side in the Imperial House, a white glove cooperative with exciting amenities such as beautiful Japanese viewing gardens, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a yoga room, an on-premise tailor/dressmaker, and more! Not to mention, right outside the front entrance is a lovely Manhattan tree-lined block. This one-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment on a high floor has a flexible layout (a second bedroom or office can be easily created). The apartment features an oversized master bedroom with two large closets, a windowed kitchen, a private balcony, and more! 

458 West 20th Street, Apt 2B - $999,900

Listed by agent Samantha Rose Frith and broker Joel Moss of Coldwell Banker Warburg. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom duplex apartment is located on the garden and parlor floor of a boutique co-op in Chelsea – giving you easy access to the picturesque tree-lined street surrounded by brownstones. From the apartment, enjoy views of the flowers and trees blooming as well as the beautiful landscape of the Episcopal Church’s General Theological Seminary. This unit also has large windows, high ceilings, high-end appliances, and a spa-like en suite bath, to name a few great features!

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Squash Your Way into Luxury Living: NYC Condos with Private Courts

Spring is the season of squash, and no, not the sweet orange and yellow vegetable, but the indoor racket sport. With the U.S. Adult, Junior, and Parent and Child Squash Doubles Championships scheduled for March and April, now is the perfect time to take a swing at learning the game or upgrade your skills. Whether a couple looking for a fun date idea or a family in search of an active alternative to family movie night, these NYC residences have the perfect squash court amenities for residents of all ages to enjoy. I wanted to pique your interest in rounding up these luxury condos that feature beautiful squash courts that are perfect for adults, children and families looking to test their skills for this upcoming squash season. 

The Cortland

The Cortland, a NYC-based development designed by two of the world's leading architectural practices, Robert A.M. Stern Architects and Olson Kundig, features an expansive Olson Kundig designed amenities program with an array of state-of-the-art wellness and fitness amenities that evoke the feel of a private members club. Residents can enjoy The “Harrow Court” squash court, an accredited squash court equipped with a basketball net perfect for shooting hoops or playing the racket sport with friends and family.

(Image credit: Colin Miller).

53 West 53

The full-floor Wellness Center at 53 West 53 – the striking residential tower rising 1,050 feet above the Museum of Modern Art and designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel – boasts over 15,000 square feet of lavish fitness and wellness amenities, including a regulation squash court. Whether playing in a fast-paced match or taking squash lessons from a pro, residents of all skill levels can enjoy this popular amenity. 

Managed by the premiere fitness lifestyle brand, The Wright Fit, the Wellness Center at 53 West 53 also features a full gym, separate fitness studios for high-intensity workouts or lower-impact activities like reformer pilates and yoga, a state-of-the-art golf simulator that allows residents to virtually play at some of the best golf courses in the world, men's and women's saunas and steam rooms, a luxe spa treatment room and a striking, naturally lit 65-foot lap pool, cold plunge and hot tub situated between poolside vertical gardens featuring over 3,500 plants. 

(Image credit Evan Joseph)

Brooklyn Point

Brooklyn Point in Downtown Brooklyn offers a host of wellness amenities including the first-ever interactive squash court in any private residential building in New York City. The interactive squash court is a space where the Smart Board meets the Squash Court. Designed by InteractiveSQUASH,  the space is a truly awesome one-of-a-kind experience. The smart court provides you with the most advanced digital squash coaching in the world in real-time. It can track your every move and shot, and also offers games and training modules all complemented by bright graphics and sounds as well as an interactiveSQUASH court app that can log your progress. So as long as you have a racquet and a ball, you are all set to break a sweat!

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

These NYC Homes Have the Best Spaces for Working Remotely

With so many businesses now adopting permanent hybrid work models, it looks like the “work from home” trend isn’t quieting down any time soon. For when we need a change of scenery, there are countless options for coworking spaces but sometimes it’s just easier to avoid the commute altogether.

Below, please find some of the homes across Manhattan with spaces that take working from home from mundane to peaceful and productive.

One Essex Crossing, Residence 8H

CetraRuddy-designed One Essex Crossing is a 14-story condominium building that spans a full city block between Broome and Delancey Streets and features residences with skyline views, shared and private outdoor space, and a wealth of indoor/outdoor amenities. 

Priced at $1,815,000, Residence 8H is an over-scaled 1,008 sq. ft. 1-bedroom, 2 bathroom home featuring a home office with light-filled eastern views and ensuite bath. Down the hall from the primary bedroom and living and dining rooms, the office provides a private haven for taking calls or catching up on emails without having to leave your home. The residence also features 10 ft. ceilings, oversized windows for exceptional natural light and air, and a thoughtful kitchen layout featuring a custom dining island offering exceptional utility custom in addition to the sleek design.

450 Washington, Residence #1107

Developed by Related, with architecture by Roger Ferris + Partners, furnishings in building amenity and common spaces by March & White Design (MAWD,) and landscape architecture by Hollander Design, 450 Washington offers prime waterfront residences in a new vision of modern living in Tribeca.

450 Washington changed their amenities programming during the pandemic to allow residents to work remotely in a business center with two meeting rooms, available for on-demand or private use by reservation. They even have access to a printer - a rarity for homes in New York City.

Priced at $2,750,000, Residence #1107 is a graciously-sized 2 bedroom apartment, encompassing 1,103 sq. ft. The residence features open living spaces with ample light, while also carving out areas that can be seamlessly dedicated to a work-from-home space. The foyer creates the perfect office nook mere steps away from the bedroom. 

With an unprecedented interest in new developments at the end of last year, 450 Washington reported more signed contracts than any other building in Manhattan in Q4 of 2022 as well as this February 2023– you can see around 38 contracts reported publicly on Streeteasy here, which includes a contract on an off-market penthouse at the building (Penthouse 1602,) last asking $17.3M.

300 West 30th Street, Midtown, Residence #3E

300 West 30th Street in the Penn District, boasting boutique hotel-inspired modern residences with sleek interiors by Workshop/APD, gives residents access to a chic and modern amenities package with a focus on seamlessly integrated outdoor space, perfect for co-working by day and entertaining by evening. Flexibility is key - they have a residence lounge and co-working space with rooms that can be separated for privacy or expanded for entertaining, featuring an 8-person dining table with catering kitchenette for private events that opens directly to the terrace. 

Residence 3E at 300 West 30th Street is an elegantly planned studio that enjoys southeast-facing views with dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony that floods the apartment with natural light. A huge walk-in closet completes your storage needs, and residents will enjoy the convenience of an in-home washer and dryer.

1289 Lexington, Residence 6B

Located in the Carnegie Hill neighborhood, 1289 Lexington is a collection of luxury condominiums on the Upper East Side. Ranging from 2- to 5-bedrooms, each of the homes at 1289 Lexington feature open-plan living with tall ceilings, high windows, solid oak floors, and elegantly designed kitchens and baths by SheltonMindel.

Apartment 6B at 1289 Lexington is an elegant 3,078' four-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath home with 10' ceilings and extraordinarily large windows, allowing southern and western light to fill the apartment. The corner living room has the dimensions of a loft and joins the open windowed kitchen, which features Gaggenau appliances, a grand marble island, custom walnut cabinets, and a vented stove hood. Each of the four bedrooms is much larger than those typically found in new developments and there are five walk-in closets, 2 being in the primary bedroom. For those thinking of what to do with the extra space, one of the four bedrooms can seamlessly be staged to present as a spacious, light-filled home office perfect for the days when you need a break from the office or need to keep an eye on the kids.

One Wall Street, Residence #2514

One Wall Street, the Art Deco skyscraper which led the Financial District's transformation into a world-class residential neighborhood, was completely renovated to pay homage to the original design while adding in the modern design elements, amenities, and services that appeal to today’s buyer. One Wall Street offers residents 100,000 square feet of exclusive amenities, including a 75 foot lap pool overlooking downtown Manhattan, a restaurant private to building residents and their guests, and a private coworking space. The building in prime Financial District houses the neighborhood’s first Whole Foods and a sprawling Lifetime Fitness Resort.

Priced at $4,755,000, Residence #2514 is a spacious three bedroom, two bathroom home featuring a large foyer with space for a home office, ample closet space, and natural light. The seamless floor plan is entirely unique within the building and has stunning eastern views of the sunrise.

In addition to the home office available in this residence, One Works by The One Club, exclusively available to all residents and guests offers 6,500-square-feet of co-working space thoughtfully designed in partnership with Deborah Berke and Harry Macklowe to create an effortless, multifunctional space to support residents with the option of working from home. Serving as an extension of a resident's home office. One Works offers two large conference rooms for meetings and presentations, a variety of workspaces including desks, lounges and collaborative tables, soundproof phone or podcasting rooms for privacy when taking calls or virtual meetings with equipment supplied upon request. The space includes a fireplace, a kitchen with a coffee bar, and business-class printing supported by complimentary building-wide WiFi.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Rooms that Captivate: Bright, Bold, Maximalist Rooms in 2023

As we near springtime and we've had time to look at the emerging design trends for 2023, We’re here to share with you this year's stand-out maximalism trend — bright, bold and breathtaking walls that captivate all who enter.

As new homebuyers continue their shift away from white walls to something more lively, they are seeking homes inspired by vibrant and energetic designs that offer a truly unique living experience. This trend should be on everyone's radar!

One Manhattan Square

One Manhattan Square on the Lower East Side waterfront displays this beautiful pink living room in one of the model apartments. Designed by New York-based designer Anna Karlin, this home is based on a specific character archetype and is dubbed "The Instagrammer." This living area adjacent to the kitchen is full of eminently Instagrammable modern furniture and accessories with pops of bright color including the bold pink walls. 

Image courtesy of Evan Joseph

One High Line

Developed by Witkoff Group & Access Industries, One High Line is a luxury condominium project spanning a full city block in Manhattan's West Chelsea neighborhood. One High Line is comprised of two sculptural twisting travertine towers designed by the world-class Danish architect Bjarke Ingels. This home's eclectic interior is designed by AD100 designer India Mahdavi, who intentionally curated this home's office with a radiant pop of red meant to captivate. Mahdavi furnished the office with her custom TX desk, Hexagonale chairs, Bruno bookcase, and Babel tower, all within the same color scheme to draw attention to the room's details.

Image Courtesy of One High Line by DBOX

The St. Regis Residences, Boston

Situated in the heart of Boston’s Seaport District, The St. Regis Residences, Boston is a new luxury condominium on the Boston Harbor waterfront offering five-star branded residences without an attached hotel. A home inside the development has been thoughtfully furnished by Boston-based designer Eric Roseff to create a colorful and eclectic art-gallery-like experience. The primary bedroom is outfitted with sophisticated, elegant and stylish navy walls and accents that bring the incredible feeling and views of the Boston Harbor into your home.

Image courtesy of Jared Kuzia

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Loft-y (Real Estate) Goals To Make Your New Home

Known for their open-plan living, oversized windows, and tall ceilings, lofts and loft-style residences are as stylish as they are functional. The below loft residences offer buyers a chance to enjoy classic NYC-style living - no SoHo or Tribeca address needed! 

222 East Broadway

Ranging from studio to four-bedroom residences, 222 E. Broadway offers interiors of classic elegance and understated luxury. Built within the bones of the landmarked art deco Bialystoker building, 222 E. Broadway’s stylish Lofts feature 10-foot ceilings, white oak herringbone floors, and stunning custom finishes. In addition, each residence boasts an expansive kitchen with richly patterned Calacatta counters and backsplashes, warm walnut and fluted glass upper cabinetry with spruce green interiors, and a Miele and Sub-Zero suite of appliances that add both function and beauty to the spaces. 

 (Credit: Binyan Studios)

The Cortland

The Cortland, a NYC-based development overlooking Hudson River Park in West Chelsea, includes 144 oversized residences designed by two of the world's leading architectural practices, Robert A.M. Stern Architects and Olson Kundig. Designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent designed a beautiful loft-like home with well balanced interiors that compliment and highlight the strong architecture of the building. Thoughtfully designed to leave unobstructed views of the Hudson River, the voluminous residence features open-plan living and dining areas and refined finishes that encompass the feel of a spacious loft overlooking West Chelsea and the Hudson River.

(Credit: Colin Miller)

547 West 47th Street

Sculpted by the acclaimed Dutch-based design firm Concrete, 547 West 47th Street is a transformative move-in-ready condominium that honors the dynamic energy of Hell's Kitchen today while paying homage to its classic factory lofts that once defined the area. The modern loft-style residences located on floors one through seven of this 12-story building were designed to evoke the neighborhood’s industrial past with large volumes at street level, a robust upcycled brick facade and oversized warehouse-inspired casement windows. The interiors feature a palette of gray hues with striking back accents and boast efficient, fluid layouts that emphasize the loft-like feel with open living spaces leading to primary bedrooms through sliding cast-glass doors inspired by the industrial heritage of the location.

(Credit: Max Burkhalter)

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

March Madness Basketball Courts You Can Play Without Leaving Your Own Home

With March Madness right around the corner, these luxury residential buildings in New York City feature the best basketball courts for residents to shoot hoops like a pro.

Below are some of the most of the best New York properties with an on-site basketball court.

Lincoln at Bankside - Brookfield Properties

Lincoln at Bankside, located at 101 Lincoln Avenue in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx, consists of four 25-story towers and features an impressive 921 units, of which 278 units will be rent-stabilized. Opening this spring, this is the second phase of Brookfield Properties’ $950 million, 4.3-acre mixed-use development along the waterfront in the South Bronx following the opening of the 458-unit Third at Bankside last year. 

In addition to waterfront access through a brand-new publicly accessible park, Lincoln at Bankside boasts a vast suite of indoor and outdoor amenities across a five-story amenity complex including a luxe wellness center, resident lounges, versatile coworking space, an indoor lap pool and a three-story, 4,600-square-foot indoor basketball court. 

The Bankside master plan includes 1,379 apartments and unlocks public access to Mott Haven’s waterfront for the first time in more than a century. Bankside represents one of the largest private investments ever undertaken in the Bronx. 

Rendering credit: Brookfield Properties

Mercedes House - Two Trees Management

Mercedes House, an architecturally iconic mixed-use development in Manhattan’s Hell's Kitchen is a neighborhood hotspot for health and wellness enthusiasts. Two Trees’ 800-unit residential building boasts the 80,000 square foot Mercedes Club, a state-of-the-art wellness center containing a spa and health club, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, two outdoor decks with greenspace, bocce and yoga, a boxing studio, indoor/outdoor ping pong, outdoor amphitheater, Playa Bowls juice bar, cycling studio and an indoor basketball court. The Mercedes Club welcomes memberships for both tenants and neighborhood residents alike. 

In celebration of March Madness, Mercedes Club is bringing out all the stops, offering an “Around the World” tournament, a competition-based shooting drill whose winner will take home a complimentary month of membership and a Swedish massage. Monthly trivia night will be taken to the basketball court, where participants earn points towards their trivia game by shooting baskets and answering basketball-themed trivia questions, with the winner taking home a Mercedes Club gift bag and a free guest pass. For those looking to sharpen their court skills without the fierce competition, Mercedes Club is holding two “Skills and Drills'' classes welcome to all experience levels.

Image credit: Two Trees Management

606 West 57th St and 45 Wall Street - TF Cornerstone

Of TF Cornerstone’s numerous residential properties in New York City, basketball fans gravitate to 45 Wall Street and 606 West 57th Street, two residential towers offering full-size basketball courts in addition to a variety of luxury amenities. 

606 West 57th St, Midtown West, affectionately known as The Max, rises 44 stories above Manhattan’s Midtown West waterfront, offering more than 1,000 apartments and panoramic views of the Hudson River. As part of the 45,000 square feet of amenities, The Max offers a full-court basketball gymnasium exclusively for residents to enjoy pick-up games and tenant tournaments. 

Credit: TF Cornerstone

45 Wall Street

45 Wall Street is a 27-story luxury tower boasting 435 units in The Financial District. A former bank building, 45 Wall Street offers contemporary amenities alongside original architectural features. Residents can sunbathe in the wraparound roof terrace, relax in the penthouse-level club, or stretch out in 45 Wall Street’s yoga room. Fitness enthusiasts can play a game in the full-court basketball gymnasium or have a workout in one of the two state-of-the-art fitness centers.

Ready, Set, Spring!

Temperatures are warming and thoughts of Holiday Markets, ice skating in Central Park, and cozy hot chocolates are quickly turning to al fresco dining, baseball, and lazy neighborhood strolls. 

Spring is about renewal and marks the unofficial season of real estate. This year in particular, Spring will also be defined by a welcomed infusion of listings and eager buyers looking for their new home. 

Scott Harris, a top-producing residential real estate agent with Brown Harris Stevens, breaks down the tell-tale signs of what is sure to be an active market. 

Buyers are enthusiastic. 

Reports about decreasing sales volume and price softening, coupled with predictions of lower interest rates within the upcoming 6-9 months are boosting confidence and taking many off the sidelines.

Sellers are getting ready to sell. 

After a prolonged market defined by limited inventory, proper pricing and preparation will generate attention.

Condition matters. 

Turn-key properties will outperform comparable listings. With high costs and undefined timelines, most buyers simply do not have an appetite for extensive renovation projects. 

Employees are facing a moment of reckoning. 

Across markets and industries, the unlimited flexibility of remote work is coming to an end. Returning city dwellers in particular are re-evaluating their living spaces, commutes, and evolving needs. And with new inventory to choose from, a ripple effect of transactions is likely to occur.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Where Buyers Should Look in 2023 for the Best NYC Condo Incentives

Now is maybe the best time to buy in New York City. If your looking for your first home in New York, you can benefit from many incentives for your new home. We’re happy to share with you some of the many new developments across NYC continuing to offer incentives in 2023 to lure buyers and drive deals

Brooklyn Point and One Manhattan Square

Due to rising interest rates and in order to help potential buyers bring down their monthly costs, Extell Development is offering buyers a rate rewind incentive at both Brooklyn Point in Downtown Brooklyn and One Manhattan Square on the Lower East Side. Now through the end of Q1 2023, the developer will buy down buyers' mortgage interest rates by 2% annually for the first 3 years of their mortgage.

Photo courtesy of Evan Joseph

505 West 43

Located on Manhattan’s blossoming Far West Side, 505 W 43 – the boutique luxury condo with architecture by ODA New York and interiors by Lemay & Escobar – offers a collection of 122 stylish studio to three-bedroom residences complemented by a robust suite of hotel-level amenities. Now through March 31st, 505 W 43 is offering incentives on two- and three-bedroom residences with two years of common charges paid for buyers. 

Photo courtesy of VHT Studios.

547 West 47th Street

Designed by the acclaimed Amsterdam-based firm Concrete, 547 West 47th Street is a transformative, move-in-ready luxury condominium located on 11th Avenue between 47th and 48th Streets, just blocks from Hudson Yards and the Hudson River waterfront. One of the best-selling projects for the third quarter of 2022, 547 West 47th Street features 219 studio to two-bedroom residences with professionally-designed turnkey home packages available and brings more than 30,000 square feet of massively-scaled, multi-level amenities and lifestyle services known as The West Residents Club to the heart of Manhattan's West Side. With closings now underway and remaining residences priced from $765,000 and available for immediate occupancy, 547 West 47th Street is offering buyers two years of sponsor-paid common charges now through the end of March. 

Photo courtesy of Max Burkhalter

Front & York

Designed inside and out by celebrated architect Morris Adjmi, Front & York is a transformational development that brings new homes, retail and parking to DUMBO, Brooklyn. The development currently offers an incentive that will pay two years of common charges as well as sponsor-paid transfer taxes for buyers. 

Photo courtesy of Christian Harder

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Warm and Welcoming Lobbies for Cold NYC Winters

With colder weather and shorter days, it's important in the Winter for owners of million-dollar apartments to be ushered into a warm and welcoming environment when they arrive home. These New York City lobbies eschew the typical sterile area to grab your mail in favor of elevated design elements that recall the architect and designers' larger vision for the building. 

130 William

Adjaye designed the exterior architecture and all the interiors, which is 800 feet tall and his first skyscraper in Manhattan. As you know, 130 William’s exterior is comprised of a custom, hand-cast façade and features a repeating pattern of large-scale arched windows that evoke the lofts that once populated the area. The lobby brings those design details inside, including a wall made up of arched-shaped hutches, that are curated with small design items. With 130 William, Adjaye wanted to celebrate NYC’s heritage of masonry architecture that was pervasive along the nearby streets. Adjaye’s overall design with 130 William was to highlight new possibilities of urban vertical living and the lobby sets the stage for this. 

photos by Michael Kleinberg

One Essex Crossing

One Essex Crossing, designed inside and out by CetraRuddy, is a 14-story condominium building that spans a full city block between Broome and Delancey Streets and features residences with skyline views, shared and private outdoor space, and a wealth of indoor/outdoor amenities. CetraRuddy designed the lobby as a series of emotional experiences that offers residents an oasis from the bustling city streets. Residents enter the building via Sky Bridge, an all-glass entry bridge that features direct sightlines and elevator access to the historic Essex Market and new Market Line retail below. A sleek marble ‘runway’ guides residents from the street, through the Sky Bridge, and into the tranquil lobby. Inside the lobby, large, woven-metal curtains separate the lobby’s lounge area from the main entrance and a selection of vibrant artwork, inspired by the artistic attitude of the neighborhood, hang in the space for residents and their guests to enjoy. 

photo credit to Evan Joseph Photography

111 West 57th Street

111 West 57th Street incorporates two notable structures. The first is a 1,428 foot SHoP designed new construction tower, which is the second tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere. The second is the restoration of the historic Steinway Hall, former home of Steinway Pianos which was originally designed by Warren & Wetmore, the famed architects of Grand Central Station. For the lobby design Bill Sofield took inspiration from the original Warren & Wetmore architecture and collaborated with New York artisans to create interiors that were reminiscent of public spaces once featured in classic skyscrapers. Nancy Lorenz, an abstract painter created elevator doors inspired by the bronze detailing work found in many New York landmarks. Artist John Opella created a gold and silver leaf mural depicting elephants breaking out of the Central Park Zoo. The lobby features meticulously restored, end-grain wood flooring from the original Steinway Hall and fused glass urns by Lasvit with gold palm fronds, resting upon an Old Gold-finished vase that weighs 1,300 pounds and stands 14 ft tall. We also have photos of the private porte-cochère on 58th Street providing residents a quiet and private entry.

Photography by Adrian Gaut

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Condo vs. Co-op: Guide to NYC Ownership

If you’re looking to jump from renting to owning in New York City, you’ll likely need to choose between a condo or co-op. Many people combine the two types of homes in the discussion, but the truth is that they’re very different experiences with distinct advantages and disadvantages. 

Many people enjoy the relative ease of buying either a condo or co-op. The prices for these properties are significantly lower than a house and give young professionals less to take care of throughout the year. People also enjoy co-ops and condos due to their proximity to everything — multifamily buildings are the best bet for enjoying life in a densely populated city.

There are many things to consider before selecting the best option for you.

The Difference Between Condos and Co-ops

Condo and co-op aren’t interchangeable terms. Condos are private residences in a multifamily building that includes ownership of any commonly used space. Co-ops have owners that share an interest in the property instead of the individual unit.

They do have similarities, of course. Both are typically managed by associations — condo associations and co-op boards — but the latter have far more power over things like applications and community living standards. 

Similarly, both offer the convenience of living in a multifamily building versus your own private property. You will not be held responsible for the street removal of snow in the winter, for example, which often requires the use of contracted services with heavy equipment and careful removal in NYC. You may also get access to helpful amenities like a doorman, package receptacle and more.

Finally, one stark difference is availbility. There’s a more significant number of co-ops in NYC than condos, but there tend to be more condos on the market at once. Consider the advantages of both home types to help you decide which to buy. 

Buying a Condo

Condos are more straightforward to finance than co-ops since you aren’t as involved in the building. Due to this, you also can keep greater privacy since no one will be deciding on whether you can live there or not.

Condo boards do exist, but they tend to be much less strict than co-op boards, which can take months to approve and will likely require an interview. Co-ops also tend to involve other community residents in the decision. 

Owning the unit means you have fewer fees to worry about than if you lived in a co-op, where you have a stake in the whole property. You will have to pay for utilities and will likely have “common charges” to help take care of the building, but you won’t have the same stake in the entire property that you would in a co-op.

Co-ops tend to have more rules than condos, making condos an excellent choice for you if you want more flexibility. If you decide to lease out your condo, you’re more likely to succeed than trying to do so with a co-op. 

Buying a Co-Op

One of the most significant benefits of living in a co-op is a sense of belonging, with you becoming an investor in the entire community. Many people like co-ops because they provide a sense of permanence they might not feel in other parts of the city. 

Co-ops tend to be in older buildings, providing a more centralized location than most condos. Many are remodeled with luxury amenities you won’t find in condos, including pools, gyms and green spaces. 

While fees in a condo are generally lower, co-op purchase prices tend to be cheaper. There’s also a stricter purchasing process, with the board approving you after a series of reviews and an interview.

Living in a co-ops has both advantages and potential disadvantages. Co-ops tend to have stricter rules than condos, limiting noise and outer decor to certain times of the day or year. Operating like homeowners associations to those less familiar, co-op boards are enabled to oversee aspects of communal living and set standards that may or may not contribute to every resident’s quality of life.

For this reason, co-op purchases can be rife with uncertainty. While co-ops make up 74% of the housing stock in NYC, they are not subject to the same scrutiny in regards to application transparency and fairness that rentals and private homes are. Many applicants have experienced unexplained rejections or, once they moved in, experienced board members and neighbors eager to exercise control over their living situations.

Co-ops can involve tradeoffs. Many beautiful, well-located buildings in the city are co-ops, so purchasing one opens up amazing properties for residents. Some may enjoy the sense of community and input a well-managed co-ops creates, while others may chafe from the influence of their neighbors.

What’s the Difference Between a Condo and a Co-Op?

In general terms, condos offer freedom while co-ops provide community. Still, the experience depends on the individual group that controls the building and the culture established there. 

Deciding to purchase a residence in New York City means you’ll never be far from all the action, but it gives you the freedom and sense of permanency that renting fails to provide. Once you move into your ideal place, you’ll feel right at home.

Author

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief ofRenovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications

Four New Family-Friendly Residential Towers in NYC with Imaginative Children’s Playrooms

With NYC children returning to school this month and working parents back to the post-Labor Day grind, families throughout the city are once again assessing how well their living situations work for their routines. Work-from-home spaces are certainly cropping up in residential buildings, but what about dedicated areas for the youngest residents to play, create and imagine?

Below, we’ve provided you with a selection of New York City’s newest residential developments with inspiring children’s playrooms.

Claremont Hall

Situated on the campus of Union Theological Seminary in Morningside Heights, Claremont Hall is a 41-story mixed-use condominium with 165 units including a mix of one-, two-, three- and four-bedrooms. Construction is expected to be completed in 2023. Claremont Hall was developed by Lendlease together with LMXD, an affiliate of L+M Development Partners, and Daiwa House Texas, Inc. and designed by Robert A.M.. Stern Architects to echo the Gothic Revival character of the original campus while adapting to modern tastes. These themes of Old World influence with a fresh sensibility are present in the children’s playroom, one of the many interior amenities designed by CetraRuddy. With arched windows and a colorful yet earthy-toned interior filled with toys, slides and treats, the whimsical playroom evokes all the best of childhood, with the refinement of the historical site it sits upon.

Eagle + West

Located along the East River waterfront in North Brooklyn within the master planned Greenpoint Landing development, Eagle + West is a brand new, 745-unit luxury apartment complex with a mix of market-rate and permanently affordable units ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments. Developed by Brookfield Properties in partnership with Park Tower Group and designed by acclaimed architecture firm OMA, Beyer Blinder Belle Architects collaborated as the Executive Architect on the development Boasting over 42,000 total square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities, renowned interior designer Marmol Radziner brings the outside community indoors with a large children's playroom designed for families to enjoy quality time situated beside an outdoor terrace filled with green space.

Hunter's Point South

Completed in September 2021, 5203 and 5241 Center Blvd. collectively comprise the latest phase of leading New York City real estate development firm TF Cornerstone's work to transform Hunter's Point South. Part of the mixed-use and mixed-income community, park, school, and playground situated along the East River in Long Island City, the two buildings are made up of 1,194 new residential units, including 719 permanently affordable homes, offering a mix of studios, one-, and two-bedroom apartments. The children’s area, created by Caroline McKeough from C McKEOUGH unLTD, features a lively spin on playhouses, with vibrant interiors and desk areas.

Gotham Point

The Gotham Point development, located on the waters edge in Long Island City consists of two towers, which include 1,132 studio to 3-bedroom residences with 75% of units priced at affordable rates. Developed by Gotham Org. in partnership with Handel Architects and BHDM Design LLC, Gotham Point expects completion on its North Tower by the end of this year, with one tower already completed. Gotham Point prioritizes healthy living and community engagement with over 50,000 square feet of amenities including a gym, yoga studio, media room, business center and a rooftop terrace with incredible views of the East River. With ultra-high ceilings and a vibrant interior, the children's playroom offers an array of toys, bean bag chairs and an entire chalkboard wall to foster creativity and exploration.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Homes With The Best New Commute, The Ferry

As offices and restaurants begin to reopen, many New Yorkers are starting to plot their future commutes, dreading the crowded subway they used to hop on without a second thought and imagining a better way to travel. One transportation alternative that comes to mind for many is the ferry: a breezy, open-air commute that takes less time than the subway, car or bike, and provides ample space (not to mention iconic skyline views!) along the way. 

QUAY TOWER (Brooklyn Heights)

Courtesy RAL Companies and Oliver's Realty Group

Situated right on the Brooklyn Heights waterfront, mere steps from the ferry stop at Pier 6, Quay Tower – the record-setting condo tower – couldn't be any closer to the ferry. Residents enjoy an easy, breezy open-air commute to FiDi and Midtown. Proximity to the ferry has been a major selling point for the development. Even the building's penthouse buyer, who just closed on his home for $20M+, the most expensive home sale in Brooklyn history, was lured to Quay Tower by the ease of a ferry commute. With architecture by ODA's Eran Chen and cool, California-modernist interiors by AD100 firm Marmol Radziner, Quay Tower offers a serene indoor/outdoor lifestyle that's inspired by surrounding Brooklyn Bridge Park. Homes start at $1.675M for a two-bedroom. 

FRONT & YORK (DUMBO)

Credit: Williams New York

Located in Brooklyn’s dynamic waterfront neighborhood of DUMBO, Front & York positions residents within minutes of the Financial District via the ferry, a brief and scenic open-air commute across the East River that takes only four minutes. The ferry offers numerous departure and arrival times throughout rush hour each day, making the commute an absolute breeze. Front & York residents can enjoy the quick walk to the terminal from the development, which has been designed with double-wide sidewalks to prioritize pedestrians. Designed inside and out by Morris Adjmi, Front & York offers spacious homes with unobstructed views of the iconic Manhattan skyline and an unprecedented amenity-rich lifestyle, including a private park and a co-working lounge for residents looking for a balance between working from their apartment and going into the office.

AVORA AT PORT IMPERIAL (Weehawken)

Credit: Courtesy of Avora

Situated on the Hudson River waterfront at Weehawken’s Port Imperial, Avora is a luxury residential oasis enveloped in breathtaking views, natural light and beautiful, fresh air. Developed by Landsea Homes – a leading international homebuilding and development company sought across the United States, Europe and Asia for its high-performance, high-quality homes – Avora is a LEED silver certified development that combines 184 one- to three-bedroom residences with an incredible array of resort-style amenities paired with immediate access to Manhattan to offer the ultimate Gold Coast lifestyle. The building is located right at the Port Imperial ferry stop. Many residents in the building travel to and from the city via ferry.

ELLIPSE (Newport)

Credit: Courtesy of LeFrak

Located on the waterfront of Jersey City’s thriving Newport neighborhood and designed by internationally-acclaimed design firm Arquitectonica, Ellipse has upped the ante for luxury living in Jersey City, with spacious waterfront homes and Manhattan-style amenities. For those commuting into Manhattan but looking for an alternative to the PATH, Newport provides easy access to the NY Waterway into Midtown Manhattan, an enjoyable commute in the fresh outdoor air. Residents of Ellipse are moments from several ferry stops: the Hoboken Terminal, accessed via a scenic walk along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, as well as the Paulus Hook terminal. NY Waterway also announced last year that ferry service will resume between Manhattan and Newport in the future as well, making for even more options and an even easier commute from Ellipse.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

2022 Technology That Can Change the Real Estate Industry

The real estate industry is one of the most important globally, housing more than half of the overall global assets. So many people have embraced buying homes in the past few years. The home purchasing power has increased immensely between 2020 and 2021 by 21%. The industry's value has been estimated to be at $217 trillion worldwide, and it accounts for 7% of global GDP. This means that there is no way for this industry to be left behind in today's rapid technological advancements. The following are some of the technologies that, when used together or individually, can change the way we sell and buy property forever:

Blockchain (Distributed Ledger Technology) and Cryptocurrencies

In real estate, blockchain allows buyers to purchase property via cryptocurrencies. For example, Australia has recently seen its first Bitcoin real estate transaction, with a 1,400-square meter plot of land in Melbourne being sold for BTC equivalent to $250,000.

Blockchain has been recognized as one of the most promising technologies today, and it's also planned to be used by various other governments around the world. Some countries have even gone so far as to start developing their proprietary blockchain applications for real estates, such as the case of Sweden.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI is a branch of computer science concerned with developing intelligent machines. Machine learning uses statistical techniques to allow computers to 'learn' from data without being explicitly programmed. In short, AI is about making computers behave like humans, while machine learning will enable them to learn independently. Most real estate companies are already starting to use AI to find patterns in data and analyze potential customer behavior. Lenders who work in real estate are even able to make use of tools like lead management software for mortgage brokers to automate parts of this process to make sure that potential customers still get great service, while freeing them up to concentrate on the tasks that really do need the human touch.

Real Estate Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding, the practice of funding projects or ventures by raising money from many people who each contribute a relatively small amount of money, is also a growing trend in the real estate market. Several websites have been helping creators raise funds for their projects by allowing users to donate on a monthly or project basis - but now some crowdfunding sites are trying to implement this formula in real estate.

Real estate crowdfunding is a new concept, but it still shows many potentials. This could be especially beneficial for investors looking to diversify their portfolio with properties in big cities, and since they'll own part of the equity, they can also expect regular income from rental payments.

P2P Filesharing

The practice of peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing initially became popular in 1999 with Napster's invention. It is an interesting technology that can benefit many industries. However, real estate is one of the biggest industries that can benefit from peer-to-peer file sharing. Here's how peer-to-peer file sharing could benefit this industry;

Reduced costs for companies and consumers. Many people believe that buying a home is far too expensive and out of reach for most individuals. However, this is not true in many cases. Many real estate companies and individual homeowners could benefit greatly from implementing a peer-to-peer video conferencing system.

This is because both parties would be able to save thousands of dollars on hosting costs and time spent traveling to host a video conference. This cost reduction could help more people become homeowners, lowering the number of homeless individuals.

Landscaping Technology

There is a growing trend in which many new developments are going green in real estate. In fact, 'green' may be becoming the new standard for developers when planning out their projects. One technology helping this transformation is called Landscaping Technology (LT). LT is being used so heavily because it increases the value of a property, reduces energy use, increases workers' productivity, and more.

Landscaping Technology is the concept of using technology to automate landscaping tasks, such as incorporating natural flagstones in homeowners' backyards. Natural flagstone is a sedimentary rock that has been disintegrated into layers and utilized for landscaping.

Technologies used can vary, including drones for mowing, GPS systems to guide vehicles along pre-mapped routes following specific procedures, automated irrigation systems, etc.

The technology discussed in this article is changing how real estate companies operate and how people can buy homes. Many of these technologies have reached a point that could be described as being market-ready, while others are still in their early days or are brand new ideas that may or may not work out.