The neighborhood of 127 Madison Park is typical New York City, with plenty of things to do, although this area of town, newly dubbed “Madison Square Park North,” is light on residential developments, with this development one of only five in a five-block radius. But just down the road are the New York City library and the Empire State Building, so the area is far from boring.

Building onto the existing seven-story frame, SHoP Architects expanded on the natural beauty of this brick building, adding depth and 21st century amenities–and five more floors, which are set back fifteen feet from the road for added privacy.

The residences of 127 Madison Park emphasize the positives of the world–a bright, cheery kitchen, wide open living spaces, and the tranquil addition of a “thinking spot,” a two-foot ledge-like enclosure positioned at the front of every apartment, a spot right over top of New York’s hustle and bustle. Hardwood floors help minimize allergies and dust, while contributing to an overall pristine feel to the place. The kitchen continues this theme, with white-on-white lacquer and stainless steel/aluminum decor. So that residents don’t feel too much like they live in a sterile ward, a few touches here and there serve to increase the ‘cozy’ feel, including white Cararra marble in the kitchen and a soaking tub in the master bath to soothe away the troubles of the day.

Security is taken seriously here, both physical and emotional. Residents enjoy key-access elevators and a door to the building that is electronically controlled. A video monitor system keeps an eye out for things out of the ordinary. Emotional peace of mind is offered with brand name appliances like the sturdy Subzero refrigerator, the Miele cook top and coffee system, and Bosch washer and dryer. Insulated windows keep noise pollution to a minimum and privacy to the max.

Nine of the thirteen lofts are currently on the market, with two duplex penthouses to top the offerings off. The two bedroom, two-bath units average 1560 square feet in living space, and the duplexes have 2.255 square feet. The two penthouse units in this building have a few extra amenities; of course size being one of them. Other additions are a roof terrace or deck and angled skylights in the kitchen. Sales started March 2007; prices for the smaller units range from $1.6-$1.85 million.

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The architect of The Alexander has designed buildings around the world, including Spain, Singapore, and Shanghai. So the homes here at 250 East 49th Street may emanate more worldly charm than many Manhattan apartment developments. With twelve-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, the whole world seems to expand around them. Still, residents will find plenty of “American” amenities in these homes, including the 24-hour doorman and concierge as well as a fitness center and storage for cold deliverables as well as private storage for extra out-of-season clothes and goods.

The Alexander is twenty-three floors of mainly one and two-bedroom units, including a penthouse. Although it’s not specifically advertised as a family development, families will find the homes comfy and the area conducive to family activities. Rockefeller Center is just down the road, and plenty of parks give kids and their parents a place to hang out together. Units emphasize choice and freedom with open designs and the resident’s choice of Poggenpohl finishes in the bright and cheery kitchens, whether they prefer white lacquer with aluminum, oak dark wood veneer and beige lacquer, or teak wood laminate with aluminum. All baths are outfitted with Jerusalem gold limestone, a spa shower and a heated towel bar. All units include white oak floors, a washer and dryer, a Viking microwave, privacy shades and individually controlled heating and air. Some lucky residents will enjoy private outdoor space, either a balcony or terrace.

The building’s structure places one bedrooms from the ground floor to the sixth floor. The sixth floor has two bedrooms with large outdoor terraces. Those units above are two-bedroom apartments, some with balconies. The square-footage would be small for suburban Texas, but for New York City, they’re spacious. One-bedroom units have 647 square feet, 2 bed/2 bath units average 995 square feet with balconies and terraces to add outdoor space. The largest two-bedroom unit is 1,147 square feet. The penthouse is much larger, at 2,771 square feet inside. Costs range from $909,500 to almost $2 million for one and two-bedroom units. The penthouse is currently priced at over $3 million.

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Manhattan House is on its way to a new existence. These apartments, originally constructed in 1951 and awarded soon after with praise from the American Institute of Architects (New York Chapter), were designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. The block-long building at 200 East 66th Street houses almost 600 apartments As residents move out, the building is slowly going to be converted to a condo development, with units boasting anywhere from one to five bedrooms, with a few studios thrown in for good measure. One or more full-floor penthouses will add an extra luxurious touch.

The politics of the building may have more to do with how progress continues in the conversion than financial or aesthetic matters. Faced with residents who don’t want the building converted, and dealing with the limitations of listing rent-stabilized units–which by law cannot automatically be converted to condominiums–Manhattan House directors are fighting their way through technical issues.

Once the red tape has been wrapped up and all of the unhappy tenants satisfied, the developers of Manhattan House have large plans for the apartments here. By combining existing apartment units, some of which are as big as 2,400 square feet, developers hope to attract tenants who expect something more from a modern condo development. This combining of living space would make for a unique appearance as well as huge floor plans. Other than these changes to the units, developers don’t plan to renovate much. The units already have fireplaces, and 8.5-foot ceilings, in addition to views to both the north and south. Developers will be updating appliances, adding new fixtures to the master baths and sprucing up the kitchen with crown molding and glass tiles. If all goes as planned, the building will soon be worth over one billion dollars.

Since the development is still in the process of finalizing, many more amenities might find their way into the package later on. Currently, developers are working on a gym, and have recently added full concierge service. Most units will have a washer and dryer; a large, private garden will provide a community-wide place to relax.

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If there’s anything to say about 441 East 57th Street, it’s that the homes here are going to be unique, even in New York City terms. This building, developed by FLAnk, will be constructed partly of anodized metal, giving it a strikingly “modern” appearance, especially compared to its very close neighbors. At only twenty feet wide, the occupants of this “sliver building” must live a vertical existence, stuffed between two co-ops–but tastefully so. At a comfortable fifteen stories high, 441 East 57th fits in nicely with its neighbors.

The developers of 441 East 57th Street have decided to call these seven units townhouses rather than condominiums, simply because of the way many of the units are multi-level, and each is stacked on top of another. The development is composed of four duplexes, a triplex (a unit that occupies three floors), and a penthouse. Most of the units are two-bedroom townhouses that have at least 1600 square feet of living space. Some units have added “perks,” like an outdoor terrace, a wood-burning fireplace, or an extra room that can be converted to a library, den or office. Each unit boasts master baths with deep sinks and soaking tubs, in addition to marble counters and limestone floors in the kitchens. Common amenities of the development include a Sports Club LA membership, housekeeping service, and personal access to the wine cellar down the road at Crush.

Technology is a friend to all of the residents here, with the lobby wired to go. Residents can enjoy a touchless elevator for times when two hands aren’t enough, and the video intercom allows residents to check the lobby for visitors without taking the long walk personally.

With the distinction of being unique comes a hefty price tag. Prospective owners here can expect to pay over $3 million for a two-bedroom unit of between 1650 and 1740 square feet. Larger units command a higher price, of course. The sixth floor, 2 bedroom/4 bath unit lists at $6.65 million for about 3300 square feet. As of October 2007, three units had already sold. Sellers expect the remaining four to sell before the building is scheduled for occupancy in fall 2008.

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Luxury at 240 Park Avenue South is a sweet sentiment. Surrounded by the award-winning designs of Gwathmey Siegel, residents here have it all, including common amenities such as the twenty-four hour concierge and doorman to the not-so-common perks such as the common courtyard, media room and sauna/massage room. A relatively small development with only fifty-two lofts and four penthouses, this 17-floor building with a curved-glass facade is more than a place to live for its residents. It is a chance to experience the grandeur of New York City while living in a more intimate community.

The contrast of many and few seems to appear a lot here. Units that occupy the curved “corners” of the building have wall-to-wall windows that reveal the great expanse of both the southern and eastern views of the city. But such a reminder might as well be forgotten at street level, where the neighborhood takes over with an open-air market and a smaller, family feel. For those with a ’save-the-Earth’ attitude, there are plenty of transportation options around, including local bus and train service, and constant access to taxis that travel up and down Park Avenue. Such a busy area shouldn’t feel so homey.

The neighborhood, of course, is only one part of the whole picture. It might be said that the inside of these units is what takes the cake. Custom carved sinks and marble flooring adorn the bath, an island countertop and wine cooler announce the kitchen, and walk-in closets and a washer and dryer are in each unit.

240 Park Avenue South is not a development for the frugal. The building has six penthouses with an average size of over 2000 square feet. The largest penthouse, with 3899 square feet of living space, 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, is priced at $10 million. Of course, with its own terrace and pool, the price tag is tolerable, considering that most developments don’t even have a community pool. And there is plenty of flexibility for those who don’t need something so big. This building has 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units as well, varying in size from 805 square feet to 2,134 square feet. But be prepared to pay at least $1.4 million for a one-bedroom, as the price for these apartments have already increased from their initial offers.

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A glass facade isn’t the only aspect of 200 West End Avenue that separates it from its neighbors. In an area of town homes and brick co-ops, this 17 and 29-story two-building condo development sticks out like the World’s tallest man in a kindergarden classroom.

If you’ve ever been to a natural history museum, you’ll feel right at home in this development’s lobby, with its beige-toned inlaid marble and smoked mirrors. But, if you’re part of one of the 173 families that can call this place home, you’re not expecting to “fit in” with the rest of the world. This is not a cookie-cutter community. Onsite valet parking, 24-hour hotel-style concierge services and an exclusive onsite children’s playroom separate 200 West End with most other condo developments in New York. But that’s just the start of the amenities offered here. Others include a resident’s lounge, screening room, billiards room, fitness center and wine tasting room.

The interior designers of 200 West End thought big when they designed these units. Floor-to-ceiling windows and large kitchens make even the smallest units seem spacious, and views of the city or nearby river show residents that it’s not all in their heads. Hardwood floors and white-oak cabinetry clothe the gourmet kitchen, and absolute black granite countertops contrast with white marble backsplashes to give it a contemporary feel. The master bath quickly whisks homebodies to another world with its frameless glass and marble shower and deep-soaking tub.

Potential residents can choose from studios, one, two or three bedroom units. The two and three bedrooms will be housed in the higher tower of this development. As of summer 2007, just under half of the units have been sold. They range in size from a 637 square foot studio to a 2800 square foot 3/4 bedroom, and the price range is just as wide, from a $780,000 studio to a $4.6 million 4 bedroom unit with all the fixin’s. Considering its location, these prices are to be expected. Central Park is a short walk away, as are Riverside Park, the Hayden Planetarium and Lincoln Theater.

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It could be said that family inspired The Centurion. Not only does the development offer family-friendly amenities such as a children’s playroom and full-size washers and dryers, it was developed by Pei Partnership Architects, a family-run firm responsible for a variety of elegant projects around the world. Surrounded by town-homes and corporate buildings, the 19-story Centurion towers above its neighbors. Double-height setback windows and a facade of French Chamesson limestone and granite add to its distinct appearance. Inside, an airy lobby invites visitors to explore, or just sit and enjoy the elegant artwork and the reflecting pool, complete with waterfall. A short walk and potential residents will find the 1500 square foot private exercise facility, located on the third floor.

Centurion has 31 separate layouts, each with a master bath and powder room. Some units boast a 17-foot ceiling; others are blessed with a generous terrace for enjoying the outside. Residents can choose from 1, 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms, or one of the three penthouses. Regardless of the unit, they will find that each has its own charm. Kitchens have a warm feel with natural walnut cabinets and paneling. Glass countertops, stainless steel appliances and a teak floor add sophistication. Kitchen amenities include an under-counter wine chiller and a trash disposal.

After a long day at work or on the town, residents can enjoy a moment of contemplation in the cast iron soaking tub. If they don’t have the time or patience for a bath, or if they just want to belt out a tune, the frameless shower has a rain showerhead. For the sake of the neighbors, the bathroom windows are tinted and sound insulated. Centurion seems to have everything, but no home is complete without considering all the little “extras.” In this case, ‘extras’ include a private on-premise resident’s assistant, storage units, an attended garage, concierge, and doorman.

Prices for these units, with occupancy set for December 2008, range from $1.9 million to $10 million. With their one-bedroom units boasting almost 1200 square feet of living space, and considering the location of the complex–steps from Central park and Rockefeller Center–the price is competitive. Most units come with at least one terrace, ranging in size from 96 square feet to over 1600 square feet.

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From the outside, it looks like the typical condominium development. Its glass facade shows off the interior as many others do, and at nine stories, it doesn’t stand out from its surroundings. But one should not underestimate the beauty and sophistication that Adagio offers.

Located at 243 West 60th Street, the forty-one lucky families or individuals who find a home here will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy their surroundings. Exotic offerings such as Ipe Brazilian hardwood floors and African Wenge woodwork emphasize the area’s cultural focus. The custom kitchen is practically imported from Europe.

If first impressions are everything, residents of Adagio will impress anyone who comes to visit. The first thing visitors see is the lobby, its Wenge wood floor throwing off a vibrant hello.  The lobby lounge, with its sandstone fireplace and comfortable ambiance, is a perfect middle ground for those important business meetings. Once the meetings are finished, it’s upstairs to your luxury condo. Each residence has eleven-foot ceilings and a fireplace for those cooler nights. The master bath contains a Zuma soaking tub and heated limestone floors. If you don’t have time to bathe, you can enjoy a soaking rain in the separate shower with rain-style showerhead.

In the way of amenities, Adagio’s offerings are nothing short of amazing. They include a 40-foot pool, a fitness center with a yoga/Pilates room, and a real English garden, made specifically for Adagio residents. But what really sets this development apart from others in the area is the sheer amount of outdoor space offered with the units. Even select one and two bedroom units have private terraces that range in size from 500-2000 square feet. In a time when space is running short, such a generous plot of outdoor space is to be appreciated. 

Adagio offers practical 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in addition to spacious penthouses. The smaller units begin at 814 sq feet, and larger two and three bedrooms surpass 2000 sq. With a post office and a library both within walking distance, Adagio has everything a family could want. Located close enough for a family walk, Riverside Park and Central Park offer outdoor recreation, while Broadway beckons and the Time Warner Center calls for you to shop. Marketing for these units begin in October of 2007. Prices start at $860,000 and reach as high as $3 million.   

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As one of only a few LEED-certified green construction buildings out there, Laurel Condominium is 31 floors of environmentally conscious living space nestled in a facade of Indiana limestone. Residents living here can feel good knowing that they are not contributing to greenhouse gases or water pollution. Landscaping uses water-efficient methods, optimal daylight is used rather than energy-stealing lights, and waste is managed and recycled as much as possible. And to limit the use of cars, Laurel offers residents their own bicycle storage area.

For those who may not feel in shape enough to ride back and forth to work, or to the store, the Trophy club, Laurel’s bi-level fitness and training center, can whip them into shape quickly. As a triathlon training facility, they will have no problem running, biking or swimming to work, especially under the tutelage of celebrity trainer Orion Mims, who will train them privately for an additional cost. Other amenities include an around-the-clock door attendant, onsite parking and full-time concierge service.

Once the grueling side of life is over with and its time to take a break, the Laurel Club is a great place to unwind. It is a private, two-story recreational space where folks can take a break at the double-height windows, enjoy a snack in the dining room, catch a movie in the screening room, or play in the upstairs game room. And since residents can bring their kids, each can veer off into their own direction, as there is an arcade, computer room and craft room.

One can’t fully appreciate Laurel until she walks into the condominium itself. With a choice of studio to four-bedroom condominiums, residents have nothing to complain about. Ceiling heights range from 9-12 feet high, and residents have it all: appliance rich kitchens, views of uptown Manhattan that can gorge the eyes, architectural baths, and solid white oak finishes. Each residence comes with high-speed internet and cable wiring, a two-zone wine cooler in the kitchen, choice of stovetops and a large capacity washer and dryer. The master bath has white marble floors and walls, a ‘magic mirror” style vanity and heated floors. Second baths and powder rooms boast the same quality, if a little less of the frills. Laurel is designed by Costas Kondylis and Partners.

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For those who feel right at home on the stage or behind a canvas, Avant Chelsea is the place to be. Located in the creatively inclined Chelsea area, Avant invites with its many restaurants, boutiques and mom-and-pop stores. Area residents enjoy walking the tree-lined streets. The meatpacking district and The Village are within walking distance. Avant gives its residents something that even other luxury developments lack: outdoor space. Many of Avant’s one and two bedroom units have a balcony or outdoor terrace, up to 200 square feet of room to breath. And the development offers a private avant garden at ground level. The garden has a gas grill and a wet bar for enjoying a meal with friends. A soothing wall fountain encourages frequent sabbaticals.

Entering an Avant home, potential residents might feel a bit taken aback. However, the minimalist design is intentional, planned to give residents a clean canvas from which to create their masterpiece. Each level of this building has only one or two residences, cutting down on the intermingling of scents and conversations. Yet, the interior is a successful combination of creative flair and practicality. Each unit has caramelized bamboo flooring, Caesar stone countertops in the kitchen, and floor to ceiling windows. A 51-bottle wine fridge serves residents who want keep their collection kept fresh and safe. Finally, a full-size Maytag washer and dryer provide an extra incentive to keep caught up on laundry.

Amenities are the big-ticket item at Avant Chelsea. Each unit has extra storage of some sort, whether from a closet or balcony. Master baths are accessorized with unique and state-of-the-art rain showerheads. Common to all residents, residents have access to a fitness center with personal trainers. They enjoy security with electronically keyed elevators, an attended lobby, and a Siedle security system.

The one and two bedroom apartments and the penthouses at Avant Chelsea range in cost from $1.725-$3.055 million. With full-floor penthouses and an average of 1500sf, Avant is attracting attention among more than just the creatively inclined.

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