6sqft | NYC local news, events, and apartments

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is set to purchase Grand Central Terminal for $35 million, a deal which will give the agency more control over development projects happening at the space. Expected to be approved by the MTA's full board Thursday, the sale ends the 280-year lease that began in 1994 and gave the agency a one-time window to buy the station. Along with the famed terminal, the sale also includes miles of track on Metro-North's Harlem and Hudson lines.
Get the details

Transit

November 14, 2018

Enjoy a Moroccan-style den under a glass rooftop at this $7M Union Square penthouse

The listing for this 3,000+ square-foot gem at one of downtown Manhattan's busiest crossroads calls it a "splendid chateau," and it's certainly that. The most sparkling element of this rare pre-war condominium penthouse at 10 East 14th Street, asking $6.995 million, may be the 600-square-foot all-glass conservatory leading to 1,300 square feet of magical rooftop garden.
Take the tour

Distinctive Homes

November 14, 2018

New renderings of Sunshine Cinema-replacing office tower reveal “Houston Alleyway”

Nearly a year ago, we got our first look at the glassy box that would replace the Lower East Side's formerly iconic Sunshine Cinema. And now, developer East End Capital has launched an official website to market the office spaces at 141 East Houston Street that includes a trio of new renderings. First uncovered by CityRealty, not only do they show an interior commercial space and the ground-level retail, but they reveal "Houston Alleyway," a new green-walled passageway that will run south from Houston Street.
See all the renderings

Despite city-wide ban, Amazon wants to put a rooftop helipad on its NYC HQ

Image: Maxpixel CC public domain.

November 13, 2018

Despite city-wide ban, Amazon wants to put a rooftop helipad on its NYC HQ

On the heels of news that Amazon has chosen Long Island City, Queens for one of its two new headquarters, making the promise of 25,000 new jobs a hopefully-someday reality, comes the fine print request that the company would like a helipad for its new East River waterfront HQ, please. Slate reports that the request appears deep in a 32-page memorandum of understanding with the city and state.
Rooftop helipads have been banned since 9/11

November 13, 2018

$2M Brooklyn Heights penthouse feels like a Paris atelier with skyline views from the terrace

This classic pre-war penthouse at 200 Hicks Street in Brooklyn Heights sits atop one of the city's oldest co-ops, built in 1910 by William A. Moring. This elegant apartment has the kind of charm and detail–high ceilings, skylights and French doors opening to reveal a private landscaped terrace–that brings to mind a Paris atelier–with the added bonus of New York Harbor and Manhattan skyline views. The two-bedroom home is asking $1.95 million.
Have a look

Distinctive Homes

November 13, 2018

Cannoli, cheesecake, and an East Village icon: See history in action at 125-year-old Veniero’s Pastry

By James and Karla Murray

Ask a group of New Yorkers where to find the best cannolis or cheesecake, and without a doubt, you'll hear Veniero Pasticceria and Caffé. An East Village institution, Veniero's is a family-owned and operated Italian pastry shop that was established by Italian immigrant Antonio Veniero in 1894. Veniero, who lived with his family next door, started the business as a candy shop. He then started serving Italian espresso and biscotti and by the 1920s, he had brought in master bakers from Sicily to run the kitchen. A century later, Veniero's is still family-owned and is celebrating is 125th anniversary next year. We had the chance to tour the caffé and bakery with Robert Zerilli, the fourth-generation current owner and great-nephew of founder Antonio Veniero. Today, Veniero's serves more than 150 desserts, from traditional Italian butter cookies and cannolis to some more modern offerings such as red velvet cake and oreo cheesecake. Ahead, go behind the scenes to see how all these tasty treats are made, tour the historic interiors, and learn all about Veniero's history from Robert.
Hear Robert tell Veniero's story

See the waterfront site in Long Island City where Amazon will bring its new mixed-use campus

Rendering of Plaxall’s proposed (but not yet approved) mixed-use LIC project courtesy of WXY architecture + urban design

November 13, 2018

See the waterfront site in Long Island City where Amazon will bring its new mixed-use campus

Amazon officially announced on Tuesday its plan to bring its second headquarters to Long Island City, following a 14-month long contest among hundreds of cities across the country. The company will also open a second new headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, with each location expected to house 25,000 new employees; Nashville will become home to Amazon's "Operations Center of Excellence," equipped for 5,000 full-time jobs. In Queens, Amazon intends to construct the mixed-use complex across both public and private sites that sit along the East River, in an area known as Anable Basin. Although the HQ2 project still must undergo a public and environmental review, as well as a possible rezoning, the tech company said it will receive over $1.7 billion in incentives from New York State for its project, which is expected to cost over $3.6 billion, and has the potential for another $1.3 billion "as-of-right" benefits from New York City.
More this way

Are NYC women paying a ‘pink tax’ to avoid sexual harassment on public transit?

Photo: Jeffrey Zeldman via Flickr.

November 13, 2018

Are NYC women paying a ‘pink tax’ to avoid sexual harassment on public transit?

According to a new report, New York City women are spending an extra $26 to $50 a month on transportation because of safety concerns. An online survey conducted by the Rudin Center for Transportation at NYU asked New Yorkers about harassment on public transportation, if safety concerns impact their transit choices and about their travel habits in general (h/t AMNY). According to the results, 75 percent of females who responded had experienced harassment or theft while using public transportation compared to 47 percent of male respondents; over half of female respondents were concerned about being harassed on public transit; 29 percent of the women (versus 8 percent of men) said they don’t take public transportation late at night because of “a perceived safety threat.”
Find out more

Distinctive Homes

This $18.5M penthouse is Village living on a luxury level

This $8M Dumbo condo with a private rooftop spa embodies penthouse living

This $3.5M Noho co-op remembers the origins of loft living

Greenwich Village townhouse where Oscar Wilde once stayed asks $7.45M

World's highest duplex lists for $128M at Central Park Tower

For $950K, a condo with a terrace that puts the 'green' in Greenpoint

Pre-war warmth meets polished loft lines in this $4.25M Village co-op

Sky mansion with dramatic curves on Billionaires' Row asks $10M

For $2.6M, this two-family Crown Heights townhouse is loaded with original details

Asking $6.35M, this restored 1804 Tribeca townhouse is one of the last remaining homes from the period

VIEW ALL

See 120 years of NYC art and architecture planning at the Public Design Commission’s Archives

Plans for a never-built “Italian Fountain” at the Bronx Zoo, disapproved by the Commission Feb. 10, 1903; DC French’s “Brooklyn” and a Guide to Prospect Park via PDC

November 13, 2018

See 120 years of NYC art and architecture planning at the Public Design Commission’s Archives

By Lucie Levine

On the third floor of City Hall, in what was once an apartment for the building's caretaker, a small agency known as the Public Design Commission reviews works of public art, architecture, and design proposed on or over city-owned property. Projects as varied as West End Avenue's Straus Memorial, Central Park's Bethesda Fountain, Greenpoint's now-defunct Huron Street Baths, and all of the City's spectacular WPA murals, have come before the Commission for approval and safeguarding. Since the Commission was established under the New York City Charter in 1898 and approved its first project, the Maine Monument in Central Park, designed and carved in the Bronx by the great Attillio Piccirilli, the commission has conferred or withheld its blessing on more than 7,000 projects. Thankfully, what those projects are and where you can find them is all a matter of public record. Since 1902, the Commission has maintained a meticulous archive documenting all the projects it has reviewed. The Archive includes original drawings, photographs, and architectural plans of more than a century of the City's public works.
Set your designs on this Story!

History

November 13, 2018

$1.7M Ridgewood listing tries to make SoMA (South of Myrtle Avenue) a thing

By Annie Doge

As if Quooklyn wasn’t bad enough. A recent tipoff about townhouse at 16-35 Hancock Street in prime Ridgewood near the Myrtle-Wyckoff subway stop informed us that: "SoMA (South of Myrtle Avenue) is the new SOHO, with a blossoming creative community of artists and restauranteurs. Former Soho/Tribeca residents have moved to Ridgewood for a more authentic experience and stimulating lifestyle." It's true that Soho/Tribeca residents have long ago fled those neighborhoods on account of billionaire rents and not wanting to live in a sneaker mall, and also true that Ridgewood is ablaze with creative newcomers and packed to the gills with authentic experience. But after SoBro (South Bronx), Dobro (Downtown Brooklyn) SoHa (South Harlem), Soho West (New Jersey) and NoLo (uh...we're really not sure), and, apparently, NoBat, NoCal, BoHo, and GoCaGa, enough may just be enough. Plus, Ridgewood requires no rebranding–it's cool enough on its own.
So let's see the house

Distinctive Homes

New Chase HQ in Midtown will rise 1,400 feet and have Metro North access

270 Park Avenue enclosed public space (with action); image from City Planning.

November 12, 2018

New Chase HQ in Midtown will rise 1,400 feet and have Metro North access

In late October, JPMorgan Chase announced the selection of Foster + Partners, led by British Pritzker Prize winner Norman Foster, as the architects of a new 70-story headquarters on the site of its current offices at 270 Park Avenue between East 47th and 48th streets, CityRealty reports. The plan, announced in February, represents the first major project under the 2017 Midtown East Rezoning Plan that upzoned 78 blocks of Midtown to allow for the construction of larger, more modern skyscrapers. The 70-floor, 1,400-foot height would make the new headquarters one of the tallest buildings in the city and the tallest office building by roof height.
Find out more

New Developments

November 12, 2018

For under $400K, this Upper West Side studio is cozy, clever, and convenient

It's a hard thing in this city to find a studio that doesn't induce claustrophobia and is still affordable, but this charming $375,000 co-op at 156 West 73rd Street rises to the challenge. Not only is it located less than two blocks from Central Park and a half block from the 1, 2, 3 trains at 72nd Street, but thanks to 10-foot ceilings, oversized street-facing windows, a sleeping loft, and separate kitchen, it feels a whole lot larger.
Get a closer look

Distinctive Homes

November 12, 2018

A move to Long Island City could allow Amazon to reap nearly $1B in city tax breaks

By Chava Gourarie

The state of New York is keeping the incentives it used to woo Amazon under wraps, but even without those benefits, an existing tax program could work in Amazon's favor -- to the tune of almost $1 billion. After a highly publicized search, the tech giant is nearing a deal to locate half of its new headquarters in Long Island City. And as The Real Deal explains, that move means Amazon will qualify for the city’s Relocation and Employment Assistance Program (REAP), which offers employers a $3,000 credit per employee per year for 12 years if they move their business into the outer boroughs and certain parts of Upper Manhattan. With Amazon’s projected workforce of 25,000, that would mean a total credit of $900 million.
Get the scoop

Policy

Developer bets on seniors in the city with luxury assisted living tower on the Upper West Side

2330 Broadway. Source: Design by SLCE Architects, rendering by ARC Shadow

November 12, 2018

Developer bets on seniors in the city with luxury assisted living tower on the Upper West Side

Betting that well-heeled seniors want to stay in the city as they age–and are willing to pay accordingly–developers Welltower, Inc. and Hines have purchased a pair of Manhattan building lots with the intent of building an assisted living tower for frail and memory-challenged seniors who want to stay in the neighborhood. Rising on two lots at 2330 Broadway at 85th Street will be the partnership's second luxury assisted living facility in the borough, Bloomberg reports. The 17-story residence will offer a spa, a rooftop garden and a “bistro” for cocktails and card games.
Find out more

New Developments

In honor of the World War I armistice centennial, the city’s memorials get refurbished

The Washington Heights-Inwood War Memorial via Wiki Commons

November 12, 2018

In honor of the World War I armistice centennial, the city’s memorials get refurbished

Did you know NYC has one of the largest collections of memorials erected in the aftermath of World War I? 103 to be exact. And to mark the centennial of the WWI armistice, the Parks Department has announced that they've completed refurbishments of several of these sites, including Father Duffy in Times Square, the Pleasant Plains Memorial on Staten Island, the Abingdon Square Doughboy in Greenwich Village, and the Carroll Park monument in Brooklyn.
READ MORE

City Living

November 12, 2018

This map shows the diversity of NYC’s veterans in every neighborhood

The New York City greater metropolitan area is home to over a million service members, veterans and their families. To provide an idea of just how many veterans call the city home–and how diverse a community they are– the New York City Department of Veterans' Services has compiled a set of maps using the most recently available data from the American Community Survey and the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
Maps and more info, this way

Uncategorized

Pajamas, turkeys, and MetroCards: 7 ways to donate this holiday season

Image via New York Cares

November 12, 2018

Pajamas, turkeys, and MetroCards: 7 ways to donate this holiday season

While giving thanks and exchanging gifts this holiday season, share the wealth and give a little extra to fellow New Yorkers in need. From coats and turkeys to MetroCards and toys, the list below is a good place to start. Yes, financial donations are always welcome–but there are plenty of much-needed, much-appreciated items you can give that don't require spending an extra penny.
Sometimes it really is better to give

Rental Offers: This week’s roundup of NYC rental news

By Annie Doge

Images (L to R): The Max, Quinn, and 2222 Jackson Avenue Hello Albemarle in Flatbush: Loft-inspired rentals with direct elevator access from $2,475/month [LINK] 2222 Jackson Avenue in LIC: Stylish rentals with balconies from $2,262/month [LINK] Quinn at Paulus Hook in Jersey City: Grand layouts and big city views from $2,750/month [LINK] The Max at […]

Real Estate Trends

New book compiles all ‘Notable New Yorkers’ honored on the city’s cultural medallions

Gershwin medallion on Riverside Drive, photos courtesy of Melissa Stutts for the Historic Landmarks Preservation Center

November 9, 2018

New book compiles all ‘Notable New Yorkers’ honored on the city’s cultural medallions

By Lucie Levine

What do Jimmy Cagney, the actor Alfred M. Butts, the man who invented Scrabble, and feminist champion Bella Abzug all have in common? They, along with over 100 other hometown greats, are all Notable New Yorkers. Since 1995, the Historic Landmarks Preservation Center has been installing cultural medallions throughout the five boroughs to celebrate New Yorkers whose contributions to our collective cultural life have enriched the city, the nation, and the world. Now, in addition to their interactive map HLPC has launched a new book, Notable New Yorkers: The HLPC Cultural Medallion Program, that collects all those plaques in one place.
READ MORE

City Living

Why winter is the best time to move in NYC

Photo © Daxiao Productions – Fotolio

November 9, 2018

Why winter is the best time to move in NYC

By Cait Etherington

6sqft’s ongoing series Apartment Living 101 is aimed at helping New Yorkers navigate the challenges of creating a happy home in the big city. This week, we’ve put together the top five reasons it makes sense to move in the winter. Until the end of WWII, moving day in New York City was May 1. Today, many people continue to move on this date and in the four months following, but if you’re a renter looking for great value, more options, and lower stress, the very best move dates fall in the winter months. In this article, we outline why a winter move makes sense and how to prepare for one.
The top five reasons you should move in the winter

November 9, 2018

William Randolph Hearst’s one-time Central Park West penthouse returns for $18M

Three years ago, T-Mobile’s CEO John Legere dropped $18 million on this palatial Upper West Side penthouse, but after first re-listing the sprawling duplex at 91 Central Park West for $22 million in February, he's now dropped the price down to $17,995,000--meaning he'll break completely even. Not only will the new buyer be able to say they're living in William Randolph Hearst's one-time home, but Legre worked with esteemed contemporary architectural design firm SheltonMindel to update the residence while retaining its magnificent historic details such as stained glass windows, elaborately carved woodwork, and ornate ceiling moldings. Plus, there's an equally expansive private terrace overlooking the park.
Get a look around

November 9, 2018

One World Observatory to get a magical makeover for the holidays

The holidays are always a special time in New York City, with tons of events and attractions to keep busy from Thanksgiving to New Years. But most festivities don't take place over 1,200 feet in the sky. One World Observatory does just that during their "Winter ONEderland" event, which transforms their 102nd-floor observatory into a magical winter oasis beginning on Nov. 26. Starting with a snowy ride to the top of One WTC, the event features interactive multi-media installations, visits from Santa, and holiday-themed fare and beverages.
How to get tickets

Events & Things To Do

November 9, 2018

Goku, Little Cloud, and Netflix Elves: Meet the new balloons in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

By Alexandra Alexa

With just under two weeks to go until the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes to the streets, preparations are in full swing. Earlier this week Macy’s revealed a series of new balloons that will be joining the cast of old favorites at this year’s event, as AM New York reports. Among them will be a giant rendition of Goku from Dragonball Z (towering over spectators at 70 feet long, 56 feet tall and 36 feet wide) and the first Netflix characters: Fleck, Bjorn, Jojo and Hugg, elves from the forthcoming movie “The Christmas Chronicles” which debuts on the streaming service on Thanksgiving Day.
There's more!

Events & Things To Do

Replacement approved for iconic Watchtower sign in Brooklyn Heights

Via Wikimedia

November 9, 2018

Replacement approved for iconic Watchtower sign in Brooklyn Heights

The city's Board of Standards and Appeals voted on Thursday to allow for a replacement of the iconic 'Watchtower' sign in Brooklyn Heights, which was taken down last December. The 15-foot-tall red sign had sat atop the building, which served as the headquarters for the Jehovah's Witnesses, for nearly 50 years. The religious group sold the site at 25-30 Columbia Heights to the Columbia Heights Associates in 2016 and soon after the letters were removed, leaving its framework intact. While originally the Department of Buildings said the sign could not be replaced, the group of developers filed an appeal and won the right to put up new signage in the Brooklyn skyline, as the New York Post reported.
More here

Policy

November 9, 2018

Gaudy Rockaway house lists for an eye-popping $2.5M

Prices creeping toward the $3 million mark are typically reserved for Manhattan condos and Brooklyn brownstones, but this rather unsightly home in the Rockaways thinks it can fetch a similar sum. Sure it's on the water in the affluent enclave of Neponsit (and has enough parking for eight cars--what New Yorker doesn't want that?), but $2.5 million is much higher than most comparable houses in the area. But if you're willing to drop the dough, you'll get pretty impressive bay views, balconies off every bedroom, a rear deck, and a backyard with a greenhouse.
See inside

Distinctive Homes

4 and Q trains are taking this weekend off

Photo via MTA on Flickr

November 9, 2018

4 and Q trains are taking this weekend off

Snag the Greenest Seat in Town: Gufram's 1972 Pratone Chair is Shaped Like a Patch of Grass

Two of the city's busiest subway lines apparently need some time off this weekend. The 4 train is not running at all in Brooklyn and does not stop at 11 more stops Uptown and in the Bronx. Although the local 6 typically comes to our rescue, it won't happen this weekend. The 6 is skipping 28, 51, 68, 77, 96, 103, 110, and 116th Streets. Plus, the Q is not running between Prospect Park and 96th Street. But thankfully, the M is running special weekend service along the Q. Before you head out this weekend, check the rest of the planned service changes ahead.
Know before you go

Transit

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Photo by Kris Tamburello

November 8, 2018

Zaha Hadid Gallery pop-up comes to the ground floor of 520 West 28th Street

A new public pop-up exhibition opened on Thursday that features architectural models and design products from Zaha Hadid Architects. The exhibition is located on the ground level of 520 West 28th Street, the futuristic High Line condo designed by late starchitect Zaha Hadid. The 2,000-square-foot gallery space is a part of Related Companies' High Line Nine, a collection of boutique exhibition space under the High Line. Gallery-goers will see models of 520 W 28th and other projects as well as the latest collaborations from Zaha Hadid Design.
Get the details

Architecture And Design

New housing lottery in Long Island City misses the ‘affordable’ mark

Photo via CityRealty

November 8, 2018

New housing lottery in Long Island City misses the ‘affordable’ mark

With speculation about Amazon's chosen HQ2 cities landing on Long Island City this week, the questions of transportation and affordability in the neighborhood have come to the forefront. And a new affordable housing lottery in the area does not look good for the latter. As of tomorrow, New Yorkers earning 130 percent of the area median income can apply for 10 units at the newly constructed, mixed-use rental 40-05 Crescent Street. Located on the border of Astoria, the building houses 32 rentals, an underground parking garage, and two floors of manufacturing space. The "affordable" units range from $2,125/month studios to $2,741/month two-bedrooms.
See what the qualifications are

Affordable Housing

November 8, 2018

Meet Candice and Malessa, real estate’s ‘new generation’ of brokers working to empower women

"Integrity, vigorous work ethic, and a strategic business approach," form the platform that Candice Milano and Malessa Rambarran bring as brokers to the NYC real estate world. But there's no "broker babble" here. The duo--who recently joined Halstead as the Milano-Rambarran Team--consider themselves the "next generation of real estate," forming important relationships with their new development clients and growing their luxury resale business. But what sets them apart the most is their mission to bring this knowledge of how to use real estate as a wealth building tool to the public, specifically women. They've even created their own platform, Women in Residential Real Estate (WIRRE) to foster this community and connect people through their series of curated events. Ahead, 6sqft chats with Candice and Malessa about how their approach, how they got into real estate, and why it's so important to support fellow females.
Read the interview

November 8, 2018

Will a Democratic House help green-light the $30B Gateway tunnel project?

As Politico reports, supporters of what many consider the region's most crucial infrastructure project are cautiously optimistic for the project’s future for the first time since President Trump nixed federal funding. The massive project involves fixing the existing tunnel and constructing a new tunnel under the Hudson River.
Are changes afoot?

November 8, 2018

Uber’s co-founder Travis Kalanick picks up $36M Soho penthouse with heated rooftop pool

By Annie Doge

Travis Kalanick, the co-founder of Uber who was forced to resign last year after failing to report sexual harassment allegations at the company, has purchased a Soho penthouse for $36.4 million. According to the Wall Street Journal, Kalanick now owns a full-floor duplex penthouse at 565 Broome Street, a 30-story tower, still under construction, designed by Renzo Piano. The sprawling 6,655-square-foot home features four bedrooms, three terraces, and a private rooftop with a heated pool. It was first listed in April for $40.5 million.
Take a peek at the penthouse

Google expanding to St. John’s Terminal in Hudson Square

Rendering via COOKFOX

November 8, 2018

Google expanding to St. John’s Terminal in Hudson Square

Google is expanding its New York City footprint once again. The tech giant is close to inking a deal to buy or lease a planned 1.3 million-square-foot office building at St. John's Terminal, formerly a freight terminal in Hudson Square, that is undergoing a major revamp by COOKFOX Architects. According to the Wall Street Journal, the building, located at 550 Washington Street, could house more than 8,500 Google employees when the project wraps up in 2022. News of this impending deal comes just days after it was reported that Amazon will move its second headquarters, along with 25,000 workers, to Long Island City, although no plan has formally been announced.
More details here

New Developments

November 8, 2018

Tribeca’s historic skybridge building gets a major price chop to $35M

Just about three years ago, 6sqft reported that one of Tribeca's more unusual architectural offerings, the 8,170-square-foot townhouse at 9 Jay Street that includes the famous Staple Street Skybridge, was for sale. The building, the pedestrian skybridge and loft condo it connects to–once the home and studio of iconic 1980s fashion designer Zoran Ladicorbic–were asking $50 million. Now, the quirky collection is back on the market with a hefty $15 million price chop, asking $35 million. The new ask comes with 4,080 square feet of air rights, and from the looks of the building's wide open interiors, the options for a new buyer are many.
What's inside?

Bjarke Ingels’ design for WeWork’s Lord & Taylor takeover shows few changes

Via Bjarke Ingels Group

November 7, 2018

Bjarke Ingels’ design for WeWork’s Lord & Taylor takeover shows few changes

The first set of renderings of Bjarke Ingels' restoration of the landmarked Lord & Taylor building was released last month and it appears the starchitect's firm will not sway too far from the original structure's design. WeWork hired BIG last year to preserve the 104-year-old store, which will become the co-working company's new global headquarters. In its presentation on Oct. 30 to Manhattan's Community Board 5, the firm explained its plan to reconfigure the ground-floor, install canopies, replace signage, and more, as first reported by the Associated Press.
See the design

Architecture And Design

From breweries and baseball to ‘cigar tenements’ and German Broadway: 10 secrets of Yorkville

Yorkville Theater, 86th Street between Lexington and Third, via Wikimedia

November 7, 2018

From breweries and baseball to ‘cigar tenements’ and German Broadway: 10 secrets of Yorkville

By Lucie Levine

Yorkville has been a popular outpost for the young professional crowd for quite some time now, but thanks to the Second Avenue Subway opening two years ago, the neighborhood has been getting on everyone's radar. But long before the cool subway mosaics, new building developments, and constantly-popping-up restaurants and bars, Yorkville had a diverse history that spanned more than 300 years. In celebration of this history, FRIENDS of the Upper East Side Historic Districts is releasing today a new neighborhood history book, “Shaped by Immigrants: A History of Yorkville.” And after getting a sneak peek, we couldn't resist sharing some juicy neighborhood history gems. From having its own "piano ferry" and the largest brewery in the country to revolutionizing apartment living, this Upper East Side enclave is bursting with exciting secrets!
10 things you probably didn't know about Yorkville

History

Amazon looking at proposed Anable Basin mixed-use site for new home in Long Island City

Rendering courtesy of WXY architecture + urban design

November 7, 2018

Amazon looking at proposed Anable Basin mixed-use site for new home in Long Island City

With Amazon nearing a deal to make Long Island City home to its second headquarters, a big question remains: Where in the Queens neighborhood will the tech-giant house its 25,000 employees? One possible location sits within a waterfront area known as Anable Basin, named for a 150-year-old inlet, sources familiar with the plan told Politico New York. As 6sqft reported last November, the family-owned plastics company Plaxall, who owns the site, proposed a massive rezoning of the area that would allow for 335,000 square feet for industrial spaces, nearly 5,000 housing units, and a new public school.
More here

My 850sqft: Graphic designer Ksenya turned a raw Williamsburg loft into an industrial-chic oasis

6sqft’s series “My sqft” checks out the homes of New Yorkers across all the boroughs. Our latest interior adventure brings us to graphic designer Ksenya Samarskaya’s industrial-chic Williamsburg loft. Want to see your home featured here? Get in touch!

November 7, 2018

My 850sqft: Graphic designer Ksenya turned a raw Williamsburg loft into an industrial-chic oasis

Ten years ago when graphic designer and typographer Ksenya Samarskaya moved into Williamsburg's famous artist loft 475 Kent, the building and neighborhood were much different. Her view of the Williamsburg Bridge remains, but it's now obscured by the slew of glassy towers rising along the waterfront, a literal representation of how the area has lost some of its creativity to corporate entities. And though the building has seen its share of controversy, Ksenya's loft feels like stepping back to Brooklyn's Millenium-era artist boom. In true artist loft fashion, the space was completely raw when Ksenya moved in. With a little help from her friends and neighbors, she achieved the perfect balance of industrial charm and chic, minimalism. From staining the concrete ceiling and retaining the original floor and wooden beams to having custom multi-use furniture pieces designed, Ksenya created her own little oasis.
Take the tour

November 7, 2018

Rent a turreted 10-room wing of the Upper West Side’s famous Ansonia co-op for $21K a month

Here’s a chance rent a sprawling space in the famous Ansonia on the Upper West Side for $21,000 a month. The 2,900-square-foot pad offers stunning views from east, south, and west exposures. The capacious co-op is the result of combining three units that formed their own wing of the building, representing the largest original layout ever designed by the building’s architect, Duboy of Graves and Duboy. The apartment was listed for sale in back in 2015 for $12M.
Take the tour

First group of chefs revealed for Time Out’s food hall in Dumbo

Via Time Out Market

November 7, 2018

First group of chefs revealed for Time Out’s food hall in Dumbo

From the company that tells us where and what to dine in New York City, comes a brand new food hall with some seriously good eats. Time Out Group, the company behind freebie magazine Time Out New York, on Tuesday revealed the first group of chefs and concepts coming to its 21,000-square-foot space in Dumbo, expected to open in the spring. From NYC classics like the Mermaid Oyster Bar and Clinton St. Baking Co. & Restaurant to newbies like Alta Calidad, Time Out Market will offer a wide array of delicious bites.
See the lineup

Food & Dining

SummerStage in Central Park will get a revamp and new stage for the 2019 season

Rendering of the new, improved Central Park SummerStage; image courtesy of City Parks Foundation.

November 7, 2018

SummerStage in Central Park will get a revamp and new stage for the 2019 season

CityParks SummerStage is New York City’s largest free outdoor performing arts festival, with 100 performances happening annually in neighborhood parks around the city as well as in Central Park from May-October–the majority of which are free of charge. In 2019, City Parks Foundation's flagship SummerStage venue in Central Park will be getting a new stage, new sound system, more lighting, upgraded backstage areas, raised seating and an overall improved concert-going experience.
See more of what's to come next summer

City Living

November 6, 2018

Live across from Bushwick Inlet Park in Williamsburg, from just $907/month

This new luxury rental in the heart of Williamsburg is offering the best of the neighborhood, located just steps from the East River waterfront and the Bushwick Inlet Park, as well as all of the trendy eateries and hot spots. The building at 56 North 9th Street launched a lottery on Tuesday for nine affordable apartments, all which boast floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, and state-of-the-art appliances. Qualifying New Yorkers earning 60 percent of the area median income can apply for the units, ranging from a $907/month studio to a $1,165/month two bedroom.
Find out if you qualify

Affordable Housing

November 6, 2018

New performing arts center announced for $400M Jersey City university project

Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop just announced the newest phase of development on New Jersey City University's University Place project, Jersey Digs reports. The University and Strategic Development Group will break ground in early 2019 on University PAC, a state-of-the-art performing arts complex. University PAC, a 500-seat theater, and the Center for Music, Dance and Theater, a cutting-edge academic complex for the performing arts will serve as the centerpiece of University Place, serving both the university and the larger community.
Find out more

New Developments

November 6, 2018

At $790K, this full-floor Hamilton Heights condo is a great investment

The secret's been out about Hamilton Heights for quite some time now, but there are still some great real estate deals to be had. For example, this completely charming condo at 789 Saint Nicholas Avenue takes up the full floor of a townhouse, has two bedrooms, and offers a winning combo of vintage details and renovated amenities--all for $790,000. And with a location just four blocks from the A, C, B, and D trains at 145th Street, you can get to Midtown in no time.
Check it out

Distinctive Homes

Work finally resumes at Brooklyn’s first 1,000+ foot tower

Rendering via SHoP Architects

November 6, 2018

Work finally resumes at Brooklyn’s first 1,000+ foot tower

The Greenwich by Rafael Vinoly

Since the plan to bring the first supertall tower to Brooklyn was approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in the spring of 2016, few updates have been announced about the project. While construction kicked off last year, work on 9 DeKalb Avenue was stalled for months. But YIMBY reported on Tuesday that construction of the Downtown Brooklyn tower appears to have made some progress, with its foundation now visible and workers on site. The planned 1,066-foot-tower is being developed by JDS Development, with SHoP Architects handling its design.
More this way

125 Greenwich Street

Financial District

The new altitude of downtown living

studios starting at $1,110,000
1 beds starting at $1,495,000
2 beds starting at $2,785,000
3 beds starting at $3,600,000

Learn More

Via CityRealty

November 6, 2018

Amazon’s HQ2 could be headed to Long Island City

Amazon is close to naming Long Island City home to its second headquarters, following a competitive, yearlong search by the tech giant. The company is reportedly splitting "HQ2" between two locations, with the other being Crystal City, Virginia, a suburb outside of Washington, D.C, according to the New York Times. The news comes less than a week after New York City announced plans to invest $180 million in the infrastructure of the evolving Queens neighborhood.
Get the details

Policy

November 6, 2018

Asking $1.6M, this Murray Hill co-op has a Park Avenue address and old-world Manhattan glamour

This classic two-bedroom co-op at 67 Park Avenue in Murray Hill is just what you'd expect from a pre-war residence at such an esteemed address. Old-school Manhattan luxury defines the home's architecture as well as its interior design, exemplified by a large private entry hallway, hardwood floors, a working fireplace and high, beamed ceilings. Modern updates are in place, of course, including a Bosch washer/ dryer, a Lutron lighting system, and Bose surround sound speakers in the living room and kitchen.
Have a look around

Distinctive Homes

November 6, 2018

Behind the Scenes at Queens’ Loew’s Valencia, once the most successful Wonder Theatre in NYC

By James and Karla Murray

Earlier this year, 6sqft got an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at the majestic Loew’s Jersey City Theatre, as well as the United Palace Theatre in Washington Heights. In 2016, we joined Untapped Cities and NYCEDC on a tour of Brooklyn Kings Theatre, and just last month, as part of Untapped Cities Insider’s Tours, we were lucky enough to tour and photograph the former Loew’s Valencia Theatre on Jamaica Avenue in Queens, which is now home to the Tabernacle of Prayer for All People church. The majestic Loew’s Valencia Theatre opened on Saturday, January 12, 1929, as the first, largest, and most famous of the five flagship Loew’s “Wonder” Theatres established in the New York City area from 1929-30. All of the grand movie palaces were built by Marcus Loew of the Loew’s Theatres chain to establish the firm as a leader in film exhibition and to simultaneously serve as a fantastical yet affordable escape for people of all classes from the tedium and anxieties of their daily lives. The Valencia most definitely did not shy away from this fantastical approach, with its Spanish/Mexican Baroque architecture, gilded ornamentation, rich jewel-tone colors, and elaborate carvings.
Take the grand tour

November 5, 2018

$830K Cobble Hill co-op has a colorful retro kitchen, a clawfoot tub, and a private backyard

This super-cute Brooklyn one-bedroom-plus-office at 242 Baltic Street in Cobble Hill has the necessary location and space for a $830,000 ask, with some standout extras. A colorful kitchen and a dreamy private garden–in addition to the bonus room that opens out to said garden, plus a laundry room–add some extra boxes to check.
Have a look

Distinctive Homes

Lottery launches at church-replacing affordable senior housing development in the Bronx

Via New York Housing Conference

November 5, 2018

Lottery launches at church-replacing affordable senior housing development in the Bronx