All articles by Dana Schulz

Williamsburg’s William Vale hotel opens rooftop ice skating rink with skyline views

Photo courtesy of The William Vale

January 6, 2020

Williamsburg’s William Vale hotel opens rooftop ice skating rink with skyline views

In the warmer months, the 23rd-floor rooftop of The William Vale is one of the hottest spots for an outdoor drink, and now the hotel has introduced a fun way to take advantage of those skyline views during the winter. Vale Rink is a public ice skating rink, as well as a tented lounge that offers hot chocolate and other treats. Admission is $20 for adults and includes your skate rental.
Get the details

Events & Things To Do

Iconic West Village wooden house drops its price to $8.75M

Photos by Allyson Lubow and Corcoran’s Dean DeCarlo, courtesy of The Corcoran Group

January 3, 2020

Iconic West Village wooden house drops its price to $8.75M

By Dana Schulz

If you follow the NYC streetscape Instagram circuit, the historic 1822 home at 17 Grove Street in the West Village will certainly look familiar. Its adorable facade, corner location, and the fact that it's one of the oldest standing wood-frame houses in the Village, all make this property photo-ready. But looks alone don't seem to be doing the trick, as the Post tells us that the home has lowered its asking price to $8.75 million from the $12 million it listed for in April.
See more here

Sales at Trump-branded condos continue to fall behind the rest of Manhattan

Photo by Krystal T via Flickr cc

January 2, 2020

Sales at Trump-branded condos continue to fall behind the rest of Manhattan

By Dana Schulz

In November, 6sqft shared data that showed sales at Trump Tower were still in a post-2016 slump, but year-end figures show that the decline is a larger trend across Trump-branded buildings in NYC. According to CityRealty's annual Manhattan Year-End Report, "In the third full year of Donald Trump’s presidency, the average sales price for the 11 Trump-branded condos in Manhattan once again fell below the Manhattan condo average."
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Real Estate Trends

Ultra-high-end sales defined the 2019 real estate market

Looking north towards Billionaires’ Row in early October © 6sqft

December 27, 2019

Ultra-high-end sales defined the 2019 real estate market

By Dana Schulz

Throughout the year, there was much speculation that the real estate market was on a decline, but according to CityRealty's annual Manhattan Year-End Report, ultra-high-end sales continue to keep the market strong. On par with 2018's 228 sales, this year saw 221 sales at $10 million or more, totaling $4.6 billion, up from last year's $4.2 billion. As CityRealty tells us, this is "largely due to big-ticket purchases near the southern end of Central Park, most notably at 220 Central Park South," which accounts for one-third of that total, as well as a glut of new development condos coming online.
More details ahead

Real Estate Trends

168th Street and Astoria Boulevard subway stations finally reopen

MTA New York City Transit President Andy Byford at the 168 St Station on Monday, December 23, 2019, along with Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and Assemblymember Al Taylor. Photo: Marc A. Hermann / MTA New York City Transit

December 23, 2019

168th Street and Astoria Boulevard subway stations finally reopen

By Dana Schulz

After a year, the 168th Street 1 train station has finally reopened, marking the first complete elevator replacement at this stop in more than 100 years. In addition, last week, the MTA announced that the Astoria Boulevard N, W station has reopened after nine months and the completion of the first phase of its station modernization.
More info

Transit

Dumbo’s Time Out Market adds rooftop igloos for festive cocktails

Photo: Time Out/Ali Garber

December 20, 2019

Dumbo’s Time Out Market adds rooftop igloos for festive cocktails

By Dana Schulz

Ever since Instagram made popular Midtown bar 230 Fifth's rooftop "igloos" an international sensation, other drinking and dining establishments have been hopping on the dome train, too. The latest comes from Dumbo's Time Out Market food hall, where guests can enjoy a special wintery cocktail menu in an enclosed bubble overlooking the Manhattan Bridge and skyline. Called the Rooftop Iglounge, the three domes are available on a first-come basis and can each accommodate eight guests.
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These are the 68 subway stations the MTA will make fully accessible

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

December 20, 2019

These are the 68 subway stations the MTA will make fully accessible

By Dana Schulz

Less than 25 percent of the NYC subway's 472 stations are accessible, but the MTA has pledged to increase that percentage to roughly 40 under it's proposed $51.5 billion 2020-2024 Capital Plan. Back in September, the agency revealed the first 48 stations it would make fully ADA accessible, and now they have announced 20 more (the final two will be announced at a later date), all of which will receive a $5.2 billion investment. Through the upgrades, the MTA's goal is to ensure that no rider is more than two stops from an accessible station.
See the full list of stations

MTA approves $17B budget that includes controversial addition of 500 more subway cops

Photo by rhythmicdiaspora via Flickr cc

December 19, 2019

MTA approves $17B budget that includes controversial addition of 500 more subway cops

By Dana Schulz

When the MTA unveiled its proposed $17 billion 2020 budget and four-year financial plan in November, one of the biggest takeaways was a proposal conceived by Governor Cuomo to increase the number of MTA police officers in subway stations by 500--a 20 percent increase--over the next four years. Though he said it was necessary to address "quality of life" issues such as homelessness, panhandling, and fare evasion, those in opposition pointed to its $249 million price tag, which will only add to the MTA's projected operating deficit of $433 million by 2023. In the lead up to the plan being approved yesterday, elected officials also expressed concern over how the plan will affect low-income New Yorkers. "Arresting hard-working people who cannot afford a $2.75 fare is, in effect the criminalization of poverty," wrote Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in a letter to the Governor.
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NYC’s third-priciest apartment ever just sold at 220 Central Park South for $92.7M

Via Vornado Realty Trust and Robert A.M. Stern Architects

December 17, 2019

NYC’s third-priciest apartment ever just sold at 220 Central Park South for $92.7M

By Dana Schulz

Despite some trepidation about the luxury sales market, the year is finishing strong, at least near Billionaires' Row, which was just named the most expensive street in the entire world. As the NY Post first reported, property records filed today show a $92.7 million penthouse sale at 220 Central Park South, making it the third-most-expensive NYC sale ever, behind billionaire Ken Griffith’s $238 million purchase also at 220 CPS in early 2019 and Michael Dell's $100 million buy at One57 in 2015. Though it was purchased by an anonymous LLC, the Wall Street Journal uncovered that billionaire hedge-funder Daniel Och is the buyer.
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Real Estate Trends

Trader Joe’s likely heading to Long Island City

By Dana Schulz

Several "well-placed real estate brokers" told the LIC Post that Trader Joe's is heading to Long Island City, where they signed a lease at the recently completed Court Square condo building 22-43 Jackson Avenue. Expected to open at the end of 2020, this will be the grocery chain's 11th location in NYC and second in Queens (the other is in Rego Park).
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City Living

One Vanderbilt’s observation deck named the Summit, will have two glass-floored overhangs

Photo of One Vanderbilt on December 11, 2019 © 6sqft

December 11, 2019

One Vanderbilt’s observation deck named the Summit, will have two glass-floored overhangs

By Dana Schulz

After attending a presentation by One Vanderbilt's developer SL Green, the Post was able to share some juicy new details on the office building's observation deck, which will be the second-highest outdoor deck in the city and is being designed by Snøhetta. Now known as The Summit at One Vanderbilt, the 59th-floor deck will have "two step-out, glass floor ledges that overhang Madison Avenue." Also on this floor will be food and beverage options, and on the floor below will be an "'infinity room' with 40-foot-high ceilings." The building is set to open in August 2020, while the Summit will begin welcoming guests (who will pay $35 for the experience) at the end of 2021.
More details right here

December 10, 2019

2019 holiday gift guide: 20 gifts for the New Yorker who has it all

By Dana Schulz

Not sure what to get the New Yorker who has it all? We've put together a list of 20 items at every price point that will satisfy even the most jaded New Yorker. From historic prints of old New York and classic mom-and-pops to skyscraper champagne flutes and Brooklyn map coasters to some more offbeat items like a sew-your-own Jane Jacobs doll and an authentic Katz's deli apron.
Check them all out here

See NYC’s 2019 holiday windows (without facing the crowds)

All photos © James and Karla Murray

December 9, 2019

See NYC’s 2019 holiday windows (without facing the crowds)

By Dana Schulz

The city may have created additional pedestrian space around Rockefeller Center this year, but the throngs of tourists are still filling the streets around the Christmas tree and holiday windows. If you'd rather not deal with the crowds, photographers James and Karla Murray have captured the best of this year's windows, from the magical "Frozen" themed light show at Saks Fifth Avenue to the artistic displays at Bergdorf Goodman. Ahead, see what's on view this year and learn a bit more about what goes into creating these whimsical scenes.
It's the most wonderful time of the year!

Events & Things To Do

Lottery opens for 20 affordable and supportive studios in Brownsville, from $571/month

Photo by DanTD via Wikimedia Commons

December 6, 2019

Lottery opens for 20 affordable and supportive studios in Brownsville, from $571/month

By Dana Schulz

One- and two-person households earning 50 or 60 percent of the area median income (between $21,978 and $51,240 annually) can now apply for 20 affordable studios at 212 Hegeman Avenue, a newly constructed, 71-unit rental in Brownsville. Sixty percent of the units are set aside as supportive housing for formerly homeless and disabled New Yorkers, while 29 percent are open to the public. Residents can take advantage of on-site social services, a computer lab, landscaped rear yard, and laundry room.
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Affordable Housing

This Saturday, celebrate the 300th anniversary of Brooklyn’s Lott House

Photo by Alyssa Loorya, VP of Friends of the Lott House

December 4, 2019

This Saturday, celebrate the 300th anniversary of Brooklyn’s Lott House

By Dana Schulz

It's been 300 years since the Hendrick I. Lott House was built on a rural piece of land in Marine Park, Brooklyn. One of the few Dutch-American houses remaining in NYC, in its original location no less, the Lott House also has the distinction of being the longest single-family owned and occupied home in the city. Though it is currently closed for renovations, the Lott House still hosts educational events, and this Saturday, they'll be celebrating their milestone anniversary with a holiday celebration, tree lighting, and rare chance to go inside.
More details

Sione in early October 2019, photo by CityRealty

December 3, 2019

23 affordable apartments available at a brand new Lower East Side rental, from $613/month

By Dana Schulz

The Sioné, located at 171 Suffolk Street on the corner of East Houston, has launched an affordable housing lottery for 23 units, available to those earning 40, 60, and 130 percent of the area median income. Not only does the building sit in a prime Lower East Side location (just one block from Clinton Street Baking Company and three from Katz's), but it offers a slew of amenities like a gym and outdoor terraces, as well as apartments with modern finishings and high-tech upgrades. The available units range from $613/month studios to $2,200/month one-bedrooms, a much lower price than the market-rate rentals which start at $3,926/month for studios and $5,078/month for one-beds.
Find out if you qualify

Affordable Housing

December 2, 2019

Iconic Bronx Kosher deli Loeser’s faces an uncertain future

By Dana Schulz

Street View of Loeser's in August 2017; Map Data © 2019 Google Usually, when we talk about historic mom-and-pop businesses closing up shop, it's due to a rent increase. But in the case of Loeser's Kosher Deli, the issue comes down to a potentially faulty gas pipe. As the Riverdale Press tells us, the Department of Buildings issued a violation to the 60-year-old Bronx establishment and a shutdown notice as of November 20th. Now, facing high repair costs and loss of business, the fate of Loeser's seems uncertain.
The whole story

Food & Dining

Every Sunday during the holidays, ride a vintage 1930s subway around NYC

Photo by Marc Hermann, Courtesy of the New York Transit Museum

November 27, 2019

Every Sunday during the holidays, ride a vintage 1930s subway around NYC

By Dana Schulz

Every Sunday between Thanksgiving and New Year's, the New York Transit Museum will run its Holiday Nostalgia Rides, departing from the 2nd Avenue F train station. The 1930s R1-9 train cars have a "Depression-Era Art Deco aesthetic," complete with "rattan seats, paddle ceiling fans, incandescent light bulbs, roll signs, and period advertisements," the announcement tells us.
See the full schedule

After City Bakery closure, founder will host hot chocolate pop-ups

Modified version of photo by Shawn Rossi on Flickr

November 27, 2019

After City Bakery closure, founder will host hot chocolate pop-ups

By Dana Schulz

If there was one thing City Bakery was known for, it was the hot chocolate. The thick and creamy beverage (with the option to add a massive, homemade marshmallow) was created by founder Maury Rubin when he had a fortunate accident while working on a chocolate mousse recipe, Grub Street tells us. They also tell us that Rubin, who closed City Bakery last month due to debt, will be launching a series of pop-ups around town to sell his famous hot chocolate.
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TWA Hotel’s vintage Connie bar teams up with ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’

All photos courtesy of Prime Video

November 26, 2019

TWA Hotel’s vintage Connie bar teams up with ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’

By Dana Schulz

"The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," Amazon Prime's hit comedy series about a housewife turned stand-up comedian in 1950s New York City, has certainly used its hometown setting to its advantage when it comes to PR. Last December, ahead of the second season, the show revived the beloved Carnegie Deli for a promotional pop-up pastrami shop. Now, to kick off the third season's launch on December 6th, they're taking over the TWA Hotel's Connie, a real vintage airplane that's been retrofitted as a retro cocktail lounge. Not only is the bar offering special Mrs. Maisel-themed deals for the next couple days, but lead actress Rachel Brosnahan even appears in front of the plane in a national billboard.
Find out more

Events & Things To Do

Netflix reaches deal to keep Midtown’s Paris Theatre open for special events and screenings

Photo courtesy of Netflix, by Marion Curtis

November 26, 2019

Netflix reaches deal to keep Midtown’s Paris Theatre open for special events and screenings

By Dana Schulz

In a press release yesterday, Netflix announced that it reached a lease agreement to preserve Midtown's iconic Paris Theatre and keep it open for "special events, screenings, and theatrical releases of its films." Last month, Netflix premiered its new movie "Marriage Story" in the Paris, and with talks of the 58th Street site potentially getting redeveloped, many hoped the company would find a longer-term residency in the 71-year-old theater, which was NYC’s last single-screen movie house.
More details

Uncategorized

Take a tour of the NYBG’s Holiday Train Show, now with a new Central Park section

All photos by James and Karla Murray exclusively for 6sqft

November 26, 2019

Take a tour of the NYBG’s Holiday Train Show, now with a new Central Park section

By Dana Schulz

The New York Botanical Garden's 28th annual Holiday Train Show is back for the season, and this year it has an entirely new Central Park section, featuring iconic spots like Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Terrace, and the Bow Bridge--all made entirely from natural materials including bark, seeds, berries acorns, and cinnamon sticks. 6sqft took a special tour of the exhibit, which features a total of 175 New York landmarks, and went behind-the-scenes with Laura Busse Dolan, President and CEO of Applied Imagination, the design firm that works all year long to make this whimsical show a reality. From the exhibit's 2,000 plants to its 25,000 pounds of cedar bark and 200 boxes of moss, Laura fills us in on all the fun and little-known facts about the Holiday Train Show.
Take a tour

Watchtower-replacing Welcome sign unveiled in Brooklyn Heights

All photos by Will Femia

November 25, 2019

Watchtower-replacing Welcome sign unveiled in Brooklyn Heights

By Dana Schulz

Last month, Columbia Heights Associates unveiled renderings for a new "Welcome" sign that would replace the iconic "Watchtower" sign atop the building at 25-30 Columbia Heights in Downtown Brooklyn. The Jehovah’s Witnesses had operated their world headquarters here since 1969 but sold the building complex for $340 million in 2016. The new owners are transforming the site into Panorama, a five-building office complex that will also have retail and outdoor space. Their new sign is reminiscent of its predecessor, with 15-foot-tall bright red letters. This Wednesday, it will be officially lit on the 50th anniversary of the first lighting of the "Watchtower" sign.
But it might not be there for long

Uncategorized

Photo courtesy of QuallsBenson

November 22, 2019

The Market Line food hall is officially open at Essex Crossing

By Dana Schulz

After years of anticipation, The Market Line food hall at Essex Crossing is officially open to the public today. Like most large-scale food halls in the city, there are plenty of options to choose from (24, to be exact), and the space is a stylish spot to hang out. But where The Market Line is most successful is in its curation of "locally-sourced vendors and restaurants reflecting the character, culture and grit of the Lower East Side," as the press release says. From long-time local favorites like Nom Wah and the Pickle Guys to establishments that are important to the cultural history of other NYC neighborhoods--the Upper East Side's Schaller & Weber and the East Village's Veselka--to newcomers making their mark on the small-business food scene, The Market Line really does feel like a neighborhood space.
Check out all the vendors

Food & Dining

All articles by Dana Schulz

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