The cobble-stoned streets of Tribeca take the mind back to the day of the horse and carriage. So, too, should Pearline Lofts, since the site of the building was a soap factory back then. The brown-brick building fits well with the other buildings in this historic area of Manhattan. But the vision of the developers and designers here is anything but old. With its arched windows and barrel-vaulted ceilings, this seven-resident building (originally designed with nine residences) only creates the illusion of age. Residents have 3,000 square-feet of living space to enjoy, including a 52′ x 26′ living room/dining room. Combined with 10.6′ ceilings, the units successfully draw the mind back to the idea of original New York lofts, without the broken pipes and concrete floors.

Contrary to its façade, the interiors of Pearline Loft units boast modern luxury. Apartments have four-inch Brazilian teak wood flooring, their sleek look blending well with the kitchens’ walnut wood cabinetries and islands. Bathroom floors and walls have the distinctive and more-water-compatible travertine tile, with radiant heat flooring to warm any chilly bath-time experience. The six-foot deep-set tub allows for the occasional pampering, while a private rain shower serves its purpose on workdays or hurried evenings when there’s too much to do to linger in the shower.

North Tribeca is an historical district, yet primarily an area intended for manufacturing, so the designers of Pearline Lofts had to apply for a zoning variance simply to permit residential housing. Interpreted for the resident, this means not a lot of local traffic, making spontaneous nights on the town stress-free. And since this area is one of the ritziest places in town, it’s not unheard of for residents to run into celebrity neighbors who are also out and about, especially at such eateries as the Tribeca Grill, with its Mediterranean cuisine, and Nobu, a Sushi-lovers hangout. Of course, families might prefer to spend some time playing basketball or tennis at Washington Market Park.

Low on luxury amenities, Pearline Lofts seems to be marketing more to those who simply want a nice home. Buyers won’t find a heated pool or a pet spa here, but little conveniences easily replace those sporadic shows of bravado. Residents will much prefer their ever-present Sonos stereo system and Lutron HomeWorks lighting control capabilities. Other convenience items include a stacked Miele washer and dryer and automatic window shades. This automation can save a lot of legwork, since each loft contains more than ten floor-to-ceiling windows.

Pearline Lofts offers three-bedroom units, all with similar square-footage and monthly common charges. Prices start at $4.8 million and surpass $6 million. One single-bedroom, 1188 square-foot unit sits on the first floor, but this is black sheep of the building. A full-floor penthouse on the seventh floor includes a private 2000 square-foot rooftop terrace.

Do not confuse Pearline with its contemporary across the street (415 Washington Street); it may look the same, and both buildings are being built as one project; however, there are distinct differences between the two. Pearline is located at 414 Washington Street in North Tribeca.

[ Contact Us ]

This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 8th, 2008 at 11:21 pm and is filed under Tribeca.