September 17, 2020

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

Plans to bring a climate change research center on Governors Island are moving ahead. The Trust for Governors Island on Thursday unveiled a proposal for a new research center that would be dedicated to studying the impacts of climate change and serve as a platform for environmental justice organizations and solutions-based public programs. The project involves rezoning the southern end of the island to make space for up to about 4 million square feet of development. The rezoning proposal is expected to enter the city's formal public land-use review process next month.
See more
September 17, 2020

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

ODA Architecture has made its mark all over the city, and it's easy to tell when a project bears their name thanks to the firm's signature boxy aesthetic, often filled with cantilevers and stacked volumes. Their latest project--a boutique condo at 101 West 14th Street--is no exception. The mixed-use development on the corner of Sixth Avenue features 44 residential units, half of which will be duplexes, as well as retail space at street level.
See more
September 17, 2020

40 NYC streets will now be open for outdoor dining on weekdays

Photo by Eden, Janine and Jim via Flickr cc Just days after he expanded the city's popular Open Streets program to 87 streets and nine pedestrian plazas, Mayor de Blasio announced that 40 of these locations will now be open on weekdays to accommodate outdoor dining. Previously, the car-free streets were only allowed to operate on Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays. "Restaurants deserve every chance they can get to serve more customers this fall – and, as the weather gets cooler, New Yorkers deserve every chance they can get to enjoy outdoor dining," said Mayor de Blasio.
More info here
September 17, 2020

NYC delays in-person learning at public schools again

New York City schools will no longer open in-person instruction for most students on Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Thursday. Just four days before city school buildings were set to physically reopen for students, the mayor delayed in-person learning for the second time after complaints from school staff over safety and staffing. In-person instruction will now start in phases, with preschool students starting on Monday, K-8th grade students on September 29, and high school and some middle-school students on October 1.
Find out more
September 17, 2020

NYC restaurants can charge diners an extra 10 percent fee during COVID-19 pandemic

Restaurants in New York City can charge diners a fee of up to 10 percent of the total bill for in-person dining under new legislation passed by the City Council on Wednesday. The "COVID-19 Recovery Charge" aims to offset losses businesses have suffered since the start of the health crisis in March. The surcharge will be permitted until 90 days after full indoor dining resumes. Gov. Andrew Cuomo this month said indoor dining can reopen on September 30 at 25 percent capacity.
Get the details
September 16, 2020

‘Ode to NYC’ poster campaign spreads love across the five boroughs with heartfelt artwork

A new citywide poster campaign will launch next month as a tribute to New York City in response to one of the most challenging times in its history. NYCxDesign this week announced the "An Ode to NYC" campaign, a collection of posters designed by local artists that reflect their love for New York. The original artwork will be on display in design showrooms, restaurants, retail stores, and iconic spots across the five boroughs, including the Oculus at the World Trade Center.
Get the details
September 16, 2020

NYC’s first store dedicated to COVID essentials opens in Herald Square

It was bound to happen--a store selling solely coronavirus-related products. CV-19 ESSENTIAL opened today in Herald Square, selling everything from masks and cell phone sanitizers to plexiglass dividers and UV lights. There's even a "Safe Zone" Interactive Experience Center where shoppers can try out the gadgets (we're assuming they'll be sanitized between uses).
READ MORE
September 16, 2020

7 ways to soundproof a noisy apartment

No matter how long we live in New York City, it's hard to get used to the sounds of jackhammers, children screaming, or our neighbors getting a little too, um, frisky on the other side of our apartment wall. And with noise complaints up a whopping 300 percent during the pandemic, many of us are actively seeking solutions to help muffle (or hopefully mute) these urban intrusions. From sound-proofing wall panels and curtains to white noise machines, we've rounded up some simple soundproofing home upgrades, as well as a couple more robust improvements, that will help you achieve a quieter household.
Get started soundproofing here
September 16, 2020

Hoboken releases plan to extend outdoor dining through the winter

Hoboken Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla seems to always be one step ahead of his counterpart in NYC when it comes to social COVID preparations. And this time, he's planning to extend outdoor dining straight through to 2021. Yesterday, Mayor Bhalla and the Hoboken City Council released guidelines on safe, outdoor heating options, application information for businesses to continue participating, and procedures on snow removal.
More details
September 16, 2020

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

Architect Morris Adjmi's latest residential project officially topped out in Dumbo last month. A former parking lot, 85 Jay Street is now home to two sleek 21-story towers comprised of residential units and space for retail. Dubbed Front & York, the complex will bring a mix of 728 condo and rental units to a full block in the neighborhood when it opens next year, making it one of the largest developments in Dumbo. Current availability for the condos ranges from a one-bedroom for $965,000 to a four-bedroom penthouse for $7.85 million.
Learn more
September 16, 2020

For $2.75M, this adorable Fort Greene carriage house is the perfect live/work opportunity

Most New Yorkers have had to get creative with their remote work situations, but if you're on the #WFH train for the long haul, you may need to consider an upgrade. And if you've got $2,750,000 to shell out, consider this incredible Fort Greene carriage house. Built in 1925, the super unique residence was fully renovated in 2014 and now includes a conference room, three offices, and even a recording studio. It's not technically set up as a private home, but with a full kitchen, rear terrace, and tons of space, it easily could be.
Go inside
September 15, 2020

Inside the amenity spaces at Long Island City’s supertall Skyline Tower

New York City's tallest building outside Manhattan topped out a year ago and is set to commence closings and move-ins this December. Located in Long Island City's Court Square section, Skyline Tower is a 778-foot luxury condo tower with 800 units, with current availabilities ranging from a $739,000 studio to a $2.5 million three-bedroom. And when the new tenants move in this winter, they'll be able to enjoy amazing amenities, including a 75-foot indoor pool, a pet spa, and a fully equipped gym.
See more here
September 15, 2020

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

The palm dome of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory at the New York Botanical Garden reopened on Monday after an $18 million restoration project. Constructed by Lord & Burnham from 1899 to 1902, the stunning glass greenhouse features 11 galleries with plants from around the world, including the garden's Palms of the World gallery. The Haupt Conservancy, which has been closed since March 15 because of the coronavirus pandemic, will reopen to the public at limited capacity on September 22.
Get the details
September 15, 2020

$1.9M two-bedroom co-op exudes East Village character

Thanks to its tall ceilings, Juliet balcony, and overall eclectic vibe, this apartment could easily pass for a Parisian pad or a London flat, but it's actually right here in the East Village. True to the neighborhood's charm, the two-bedroom co-op at 307 East 12th Street is full of character, and it's asking $1,895,000.
See more
September 14, 2020

In Midtown, 1,401-foot One Vanderbilt is officially open

It's been nearly four years since One Vanderbilt broke ground next to Grand Central, and after topping out one year ago at 1,401 feet, NYC's fourth-tallest tower is officially open to office tenants. Developer SL Green, Manhattan's largest office landlord, held an opening ceremony this morning in which they also unveiled a $220 million package of public open space and transit infrastructure improvements.
Find out more here
September 14, 2020

NY Botanical Garden and Douglaston reach deal on ground leases at Bronx affordable housing project

Plans to bring hundreds of new affordable apartments for seniors and low-income families in the Bronx are moving forward. The New York Botanical Garden and Douglaston Development this week closed on two separate 99-year ground leases at 2856 Webster Avenue and 410 Bedford Park Boulevard, which will hold a two-building, 100 percent affordable development. Located just a block from the Botanical Garden, the project includes a new 12,000-square-foot Cherry Valley Marketplace store on the ground floor. The existing Cherry Valley grocery store, located at the site of the project, will remain open throughout construction.
Get the details
September 14, 2020

87 streets in NYC are now car-free outdoor dining destinations

Even as the city prepares to resume indoor dining this month, more restaurants will be able to take advantage of the program that allows expanded street and sidewalk seating. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced last week seven new locations for outdoor dining on open streets across the five boroughs, bringing the total to 87 streets and nine pedestrian plazas designated for restaurant use on weekends. The latest batch of outdoor dining streets will be overseen by a number of neighborhood restaurants, including Gertie's in Williamsburg, Kheo-Yo in Tribeca, Ray's Bar on the Lower East Side, and others.
More here
September 14, 2020

Live in an 1830 Cobble Hill carriage house for $4,100 a month

Not many people can say they live in a 19th-century carriage house, but here's a rare opportunity to rent a large, one-bedroom apartment in one in Cobble Hill. Built in 1830, 173 Pacific Street is comprised of two units, and this one is on the second level. Highlights include beamed ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, and a rear balcony. The home is asking $4,100 a month.
READ MORE
Pitch a story icon Know of something cool happening in New York? Let us know:
September 11, 2020

$10M Montauk home has a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean

With views like this, why wouldn't you put the pool on the roof? Set on a full acre on a high bluff on the shores of Montauk, this three-level contemporary home is party-ready inside and out. Asking $9,995,000, the house has 6,000 square feet of interior space, five bedrooms, and 4,000 square feet of outdoor space including the rooftop and another level of outdoor lounges.
See inside
September 11, 2020

Sotheby’s hip hop auction includes Biggie Smalls’ crown from ‘King of New York’ photo & more gems

Next week, Sotheby's will host its first-ever hip hop auction with iconic memorabilia from the music movement that got its start in New York City. One of the biggest items of the auction, which will be held live on September 15, is the crown worn by Brooklyn-born Biggie Smalls during the 1997 "King of New York" photo shoot, the last portrait of the rapper before he was killed just days later. Another amazing item at the auction includes over 20 love letters penned by a 16-year-old Tupac Shakur to his high school sweetheart.
Find out more
September 11, 2020

Manhattan’s 13th Avenue takes claim as the shortest avenue in the entire city

You may be scratching your head at the mention of the 13th Avenue in Manhattan, but it does exist--and it's the shortest avenue in the whole city with a fascinating history behind it. The minuscule stretch covers prime Meatpacking District real estate, just west of 11th Avenue and between Little West 12th Street and Gansevoort Street. The single block across the West Side Highway is unmarked, but officially known as Gansevoort Peninsula. The avenue was created by the city in 1837, and in no way was intended to be so short. In fact, by the mid-1800s 13th Avenue encompassed nearly 15 blocks and was planned to stretch all the way up to 135th Street. But the block never left Chelsea and was mostly destroyed by the city at the turn of the century.
Read all about the life and death of the Avenue
September 11, 2020

$66M triplex penthouse at 111 West 57th Street sits 900 feet above Central Park

Two new impressive units just hit the market at New York City's most slender supertall. At 111 West 57th Street, a three-level, four-bedroom penthouse with over 7,000 square feet of interior space and an additional 1,367 square feet in private outdoor space with picture-perfect views over Central Park has hit the market for $66 million. And a duplex with three bedrooms and unobstructed park views is now asking $39.5 million. The latest multi-million dollar listings at the Billionaires' Row tower come after two $30 million units sold earlier this summer during the coronavirus shut down, giving a boost to the city's nearly stagnant luxury market.
Learn more
September 11, 2020

Creative built-ins frame this $900K loft in Greenwood Heights

Just north of Green-Wood Cemetery, on the border of Greenwood Heights and Park Slope, this two-bedroom condo is asking $899,000. The apartment is located at 259 21st Street, a 1905 schoolhouse converted into lofts. The transformation left this unit with original oversized arched windows and 12.5-foot-high beamed ceilings, and the owner's creative touch added a cool wall of built-in bookshelves that frames both of the sleeping areas.
See some more
September 10, 2020

Tenement Museum restarts outdoor walking tours

The pandemic has taken its toll on almost every New York City museum, but the Lower East Side's Tenement Museum has had it especially hard. Because of the cramped quarters of the historic tenement houses that make up the museum, they've been unable to reopen indoors. As NY1 reported in late July, the museum laid off 76 part-time employees, 71 of whom were tour guides. But there's now a glimmer of hope for the museum that educates people on the history of immigration to New York in the 19th and 20th centuries. They will be restarting their outdoor walking tours for single household groups beginning this weekend. 
READ MORE
September 10, 2020

Refusing to wear a mask on MTA trains and buses will cost riders $50

Riders on public transit in New York who refuse to wear a face mask will now be fined $50, Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced Thursday. Starting Monday, riders of the city's subway and buses, the Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North will be subject to the new penalty for not complying with the mandatory face-covering rule, put in place by executive order in April.
More here
September 10, 2020

The best apartments in NYC you can rent for less than $3,000/month

With New York City's listing inventory hitting its highest level in 14 years and net effective rents still falling, according to a new report by real estate appraisers at Miller Samuel, this may be the best time for renters to snag a good deal on an apartment. This week, we're taking a look at the best rentals currently on the market for under $3,000/month. From a Brooklyn studio with outdoor space and on-site laundry to a bright corner one-bedroom on the Lower East Side, find out just how far $3,000 will get you in NYC right now.
Find your next place
September 10, 2020

Village Halloween Parade cancelled for only the second time in 47 years

Though the Village Halloween Parade was just a small neighborhood gathering in 1973, it has taken place and grown every year since then except after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. This year, however, the beloved event is being cancelled for the second time ever due to COVID-19. Jeanne Fleming, who has been the director of the parade since 1985, broke the news yesterday to the Post, but promised New Yorkers a special "trick" in its place, though she's remaining mum on those details for now.
READ MORE
September 10, 2020

Over the last four years, sale prices at Trump-branded condos dropped by 25 percent

While some of Donald Trump's family businesses have managed to profit from his presidency, his condo buildings in New York City continue to see significant price drops. According to a new report from CityRealty, owners of apartments at Trump-branded buildings in the city are "eager to get out," even willing to take a significant loss on their properties. From 2016 to 2020, overall closing sales prices at nine Trump-branded condos dropped by 25 percent, according to CityRealty's index tracking prices at Manhattan buildings owned by the Trump Organization.
Find out more
September 10, 2020

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

Built 327 years ago, this charming cottage is thought to be the oldest home in Sag Harbor Village, however, it wasn't built in Sag Harbor. According to past listings, the home was actually constructed in Sagaponack and then moved five times before settling in Sag Harbor, where it remains today at 64 Union Street and is asking $1,550,000. The original part of the house retains its exposed ceiling beams, wide-plank wood floors, and two working fireplaces. As a bonus, there's a separate studio structure on the property that would make a great guest house.
Go inside
September 9, 2020

For $2.5M, this Woodstock estate comes with three stone homes, a koi pond, a treehouse, and more

It makes sense that this upstate estate shares the same folksy, comfortable feel as its Woodstock, New York location. Its current owner is Michael Lang, co-creator of the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969. Set on nearly 17 acres, the property features a 5,000-square-foot main stone house, a second stone home, a cottage with a greenhouse, a koi pond, a pool, an orchard, a treehouse, and gorgeous mountain views. Known as Happy Brooks, the estate was built in 1929 and is now on the market for $2,450,000.
Take the full tour
September 9, 2020

New York City will open indoor dining on September 30

Restaurants in New York City will be able to resume indoor dining on September 30, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Wednesday. Capacity will be limited to 25 percent with strict coronavirus-related regulations in place. In addition to the task force led by the State Liquor Authority, the city will provide 400 inspectors to oversee compliance at restaurants. Cuomo said the state will also rely on city residents to report any violations. "I believe in New Yorkers to do the right thing," the governor said during a press briefing.
Get the details
September 9, 2020

Sting, Norah Jones, & more to perform in free SummerStage Jubilee virtual concert

A free concert benefiting New York City parks programs will be live-streamed next week, with a number of renowned artists participating. Hosted by the City Parks Foundation, the SummerStage Jubilee takes place virtually on September 17 with performances from Sting, Norah Jones, Trey Anastasio, Rufus Wainwright, Leslie Odom Jr., Rosanne Cash, Emily King, PJ Morton, and more. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the foundation put its annual free outdoor concert series in Central Park, online for all to enjoy, dubbing it SummerStage Anywhere.
Find out more
September 9, 2020

You can win a private session at Grand Central Terminal’s ‘hidden’ tennis courts

A contest launched on Tuesday that is tailor-made for lovers of tennis and quirky New York City history. Grand Central Terminal's "Game, Set, & Match" contest will provide one winner and a partner an hour to play tennis at the iconic transit hub's Vanderbilt Tennis Club, located in a hard-to-find location on the terminal's fourth floor. In addition to the free match, the winner will receive $300 in gift cards for Grand Central Terminal vendors.
Get the details
September 8, 2020

For $1.8M, a treetop retreat upstate with 24 acres, Scandinavian design, and a ‘party barn’

Less than an hour from the George Washington Bridge in the charming town of Cornwall, New York, is this hidden treetop escape. Situated on 24 gated acres, the property consists of a Scandinavian-inspired wood and stone main house, a resort-style pool with a waterfall, and a separate 1,700-square-foot party barn complete with an indoor basketball court, bar with keg tap, and gym. The home has been listed as a vacation rental on Airbnb for a whopping $1,286 a night, but the entire property is now for sale for $1,850,000, and it can come fully furnished.
Take the tour
September 8, 2020

Annual 9/11 dance tribute at Lincoln Center will be live streamed

An annual dance performance in New York City commemorating September 11 will be live-streamed this year. On Friday, the Buglisi Dance Theatre and Lincoln Center, in partnership with Dance/NYC, will present a "reimagined" Table of Silence Project 9/11, a multi-cultural performance calling for peace and global unity. Created and choreographed by Jacqulyn Buglisi, the yearly performance first debuted in 2011, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
Find out more
September 8, 2020

Chelsea Flea returns this weekend with new Smorgasburg vendors

After closing in December and being unable to reopen this spring due to the pandemic, the beloved Chelsea Flea is returning this weekend. The outdoor flea market will have more than 40 antique and vintage dealers (some old favorites, some new), as well as a new partnership with Smorgasburg that will bring some great food options.
READ MORE
September 8, 2020

356 years ago, New Amsterdam became New York City

On September 8th, 1664, Dutch Director-General Peter Stuyvesant surrendered New Amsterdam to the British, officially establishing New York City. To take part in the fur trade, settlers from the Dutch West India Company first established the colony of New Netherland in 1624, which would eventually grow to include all present-day boroughs, Long Island, and even parts of New Jersey. The following year, the island of Manhattan, then the capital, was named New Amsterdam. But when Stuyvesant's 17-year run as Governor (from 1647 to 1664) turned unfavorable, he ceded the island to England's Colonel Richard Nicolls, who had sent four ships with 450 men to seize the Dutch Colony. The name was promptly changed to honor the Duke of York and his mission.
Get the whole history
September 8, 2020

New York’s COVID-19 infection rate has been below 1 percent for one month straight

Once the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, New York now has one of the lowest infection rates in the country. For four weeks straight, the percentage of positive virus tests has stayed below 1 percent, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday. At the peak of COVID-19 this spring, the state was reporting over 10,000 new cases and hundreds of deaths per day. On Monday, there were 520 new cases, with 0.88 percent of tests coming back positive, and two deaths statewide.
More here
September 8, 2020

$2.8M Upper West Side penthouse has a 3,000-square-foot terrace and a solarium

For classic Upper West Side living, there's nothing quite like the co-ops that line West End Avenue. But this penthouse at 465 West End Avenue takes things a step further, exuding all the pre-war elegance you'd hope for, along with a glass solarium and a massive, 2,900-square-foot terrace. It's currently asking $2,775,000.
Look around
September 4, 2020

FEMA pulls funding for sanitizing schools and subways, according to officials

A recent rule change by the Federal Emergency Management Agency could take away funding for disinfecting subway cars and city schools, Sen. Chuck Schumer said on Thursday. New guidance from the agency says states need to cover the costs of disinfectants, personal protective equipment, temperature scanners, and other cleaning-related items that have been reimbursed by FEMA since March, the start of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. Schumer called the change a "downright dirty decision" made during a time when New York and the rest of the country continues to fight against the spread of the virus.
More here
September 4, 2020

NJ’s American Dream mall will reopen October 1

New Jersey's American Dream megamall will reopen its doors next month after shuttering for six months because of the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier this summer, the mall's future looked bleak, with developer Triple Five Group missing mortgage payments and multiple tenants leaving the site. But with American Dream's indoor ski park officially running again and retail stores and attractions set to reopen on October 1, the mall's luck may be turning around.
Details this way
September 4, 2020

New York is looking for ‘leaf peepers’ to keep track of fall foliage

Admit it--you can't wait to get that perfect #fallfoliage shot. But if you want to take it a step further, you can volunteer as an official "leaf peeper" for the state of New York (h/t Time Out). I LOVE NY, the state's tourism agency, is growing its statewide team of volunteers who submit weekly reports on the status of foliage in their given areas.
READ MORE
September 3, 2020

U Thant Island: Manhattan’s smallest island that’s off limits to the public

Between the United Nations building and Long Island City sits a tiny 100-by-200 foot piece of land, known as U Thant Island. The East River man-made enclave is just south of Roosevelt Island and legally part of Manhattan. As Atlas Obscura discovered, the land did not exist until the 1800s when a trolley tunnel was dug beneath the River to connect Manhattan and Queens. While U Thant looks like a nice place to get some sun and relax, the island remains closed to the public as a bird sanctuary.
Find out more
September 3, 2020

For $1.7M, an award-winning tiny house in the Amagansett Dunes

The Amagansett Dunes is a seaside stretch of this Hamptons enclave that is full of beach cottages and casual vacation homes. And though this property at 9 Ocean Lane fits both those bills, it's really quite unique. Designed by Bates Masi + Architects, the home is only 600 square feet due to local and FEMA regulations. However, the architects used these restraints to "explore the geometry of the building in section and how it can expand our perception of space," according to their project page. The award-winning two-bedroom residence is now for sale $1,725,000 and it even comes fully furnished.
Go inside
September 3, 2020

Cuomo says indoor dining could resume with an NYPD task force enforcing COVID-19 rules

Indoor dining could resume in New York City only if police are able to enforce compliance of coronavirus regulations at restaurants, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Thursday. During a call with reporters, the governor said he could allow restaurants to open for indoor dining if the city creates a task force of NYPD officers designated to oversee compliance. Cuomo said he plans to discuss the issue with City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, who on Wednesday called for an immediate start of indoor dining, which has been allowed in every region in the state except the five boroughs.
More this way
September 3, 2020

After threat to defund NYC, Cuomo says Trump will need ‘an army’ to walk down the street

"Forget bodyguards, he better have an army if he thinks he’s gonna walk down the street in New York," Governor Andrew Cuomo said last night in response to Donald Trump's new claims that he's planning to defund New York City. After sending a five-page memo to the U.S. Attorney General and the Office of Management and Budget about Portland, Seattle, Washington, and New York City, Trump Tweeted, "My Administration will do everything in its power to prevent weak mayors and lawless cities from taking Federal dollars while they let anarchists harm people, burn buildings, and ruin lives and businesses."
Find out more
September 3, 2020

$1.65M Bed-Stuy townhouse has two apartments and lots of character

This Bed-Stuy townhouse 671 Hancock Street has a lot going for it. First, it's got tons of character, including rustic brick walls and exposed ceiling beams. Second, it's a two-family with an owner's duplex and a garden rental. And third, the $1,650,000 price makes it a great investment for all that you're getting.
See more
September 2, 2020

First online-only Whole Foods ‘store’ opens in Brooklyn

While new Whole Foods stores in New York City typically open to fanfare from lovers of the grocery chain, a new location in Brooklyn won't get the same in-person hoopla. The first-ever online-only Whole Foods "store" opened in Brooklyn on Tuesday, dedicated exclusively to fulfilling online grocery orders. The new store, which has been in the works for over a year, will not allow any customers inside.
Get the details

Our Mission

More than just current events, here you'll learn about the places, people, and ideas that are shaping your city.