Two architectural firms teamed up to make this personal garage possible: Selldorf and A. Zahner Company. And while the garage idea was genius, they didn’t settle for making it the only draw to living at 200 11th Avenue. Rather than try to emulate the newer glass-facade structures going up all over Manhattan, these firms designed a skyscraper that celebrated the rich industrial history of the Chelsea area. The base of the building is cast gunmetal glazed terra cotta, but as the eyes go skyward, this façade changes, morphing into customized stainless steel. Of course, there is still plenty of glass to be found throughout the building. One side of the unit is nothing but glass, with oversized double-height glass doors exposing the living room, kitchen and master bedroom. Each of these doors leads to more glass, a terrace with a clear view of the area. And what an area to see.

The west side of Manhattan is a relatively low-profile place, but a place of burgeoning wealth. 200 11th Avenue sits directly across from Chelsea Cove, the newest segment of the Hudson River Park. To be completed in 2009, the park will offer everything from public art shows to running/biking paths, and even a carousel. The building is located in the center of the Chelsea Arts District, THE art gallery capital of the island with over 200 operating galleries. And in-building, folks can spend time at the 2nd floor fitness area.

The designers here at 200 Eleventh put a lot of consideration into making sure the units feel bright and spacious. Double-height ceilings in most units and a preponderance of glass ensure that even the most claustrophobic people find comfort here. In these homes, everything is connected and yet…distinguished. The open floor plan connects the various rooms of the unit seamlessly. The normal kitchen clutter is hidden nicely behind teak wall paneling, and the teak flooring and cabinetry serves as a theme throughout the home, even in the master suite. The master bath shakes things up with the addition of a free-standing granite soaking tub.

Prudential Elliman’s website shows three duplexes still available, as of September 2008. All are 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath units with 2,328 square feet of living space. They offer “unobstructed sunset views” and face the Chelsea Cove of the Hudson River Park. Prices range from $6.2-$6.7 million. Residents here are eligible for a 421-a real estate tax abatement.

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56 Leonard will be a pioneer project for the world-renowned architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron. The firm is already respected for its contributions to the 2008 Olympics with the construction of the Beijing National Stadium in China. Now, de Meuron will expand its unique vision to historic Tribeca with 56 Leonard, the area’s first residential skyscraper; the 57-storied glass behemoth claims to offer some residents a view of the Atlantic Ocean. But that by itself won’t garner a lot of attention, and a glass façade on its own would turn many away. That’s where de Meuron’s genius comes in. The base will be reasonably typical, with comfortable, even boundaries, but the further one ascends, the less like a building it becomes, and more like a game of Jenga, until it looks like the slightest breeze might topple the whole structure. Of course, residents need not worry of such things, for the structure is just one more illusion for savvy New Yorkers’ to wrap their minds around. Perhaps the most noticeable aspect of 56 Leonard is the gigantic stainless steel flattened bubble that sits at one corner. This unique sculpture was commissioned by Anish Kapoor, the London-based sculptor, and serves as an enigmatic fixture of the building.

For all of its artistic flair, 56 Leonard is organized succinctly. The 1,600 square-foot, double-height lobby is at street level. This is where residents will find the 24-hour concierge/doorman, a refrigerated package room and a total of seven elevators. The black granite decor may feel elegant and intimidating, but the vertical garden outside should calm the nerves. Above the lobby are the “townhouses” and two floors of amenities. After the 8th floor are the “tower residences,” a collection of 2-5 bedroom apartments. Finally, towering far above the block are the ten penthouses, which offer the best view of the area.

The development includes a number of impressive amenities, including one of the largest private lap pools in the area, the 75-foot Infinity edge pool. For those who like the water but don’t want to get in, an attached outdoor sundeck is just the place to catch some sunlight and connect with the neighborhood. 56 Leonard also has a wet/dry spa and a fitness center with a yoga studio. Children (and playful parents) will enjoy the Tribeca Tot room, while creative souls can catch a movie in the screening room or read the latest best seller in the library lounge.

There’s a lot to say of the interior designs here at 56 Leonard, because each unit has a unique floor plan. Of course, the cozy ambiance is a must. A glass door introduces each residence; in some units it’s up to twelve feet high. Neutral tones throughout make things easy to customize, with a mixture of quiet hardwood and satin etched glass. The kitchen area is creatively comfortable; spacious, curved countertops of black granite cater to wanna-be chefs. The meticulously elegant Master bath has a six-foot soaking tub and custom marble mosaic-tiled walls that continue the curvy theme. To relate the units to the bubble sculpture that defines one of the outside corners, designers stretched the fireplace hearth to the ceiling and crafted it with white-enameled steel. All units have private outdoor space, in some cases with as much as 1700 square feet.

56 Leonard is expected to have 145 residences, which makes it one of the larger complexes in Tribeca. Units vary nicely, from the cozy 1,430 two-bedroom to the monstrous 6,380 units. The penthouses occupy the top floors, eight full and two half-floor units averaging 4,500 square feet of living area. Prices start “small” at $3.5 million but can reach as high as $33 million. Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group is in charge of sales and marketing, and from the looks of things they’re filling up quickly. The residences are slated for occupancy in Fall 2010.

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In today’s expensive and unstable economy, the perks can mean the difference between a good buy and the typical fare. Tribeca Summit has a number of advantages in relation to other developments. Yes, it has the landscaped sundeck, the fitness center, a children’s play area and even a place of contemplation with two sky-bound atriums, complete with trees. It’s also got a few added amenities. One is a bicycle storage area for those who want to go “green”. The second is an attended indoor garage; convenient maybe, but hardly head-turning. What really attracts people to Tribeca Summit is what it does for the pocketbook. Since the building was built in 1912, it has qualified for a federal historic preservation tax incentive, which means a significant tax discount, in some cases amounting to a six-figure difference.

Tribeca is an interesting place to live in, not just for the film festival that takes its name. There are a number of parks for the family with little ones, but plenty of things for adults as well. The budding chef will enjoy the numerous bakeries and grocers around, and a selection of eateries to help broaden the mind. For adventurous souls, the piers nearby offer free kayaking for singles, couples, and even families. A genuine Pilates gym provides fitness enthusiasts with a chance to learn the art as its founder originally intended.

Many of the units here are loft spaces, wide open areas that leave it up to the residents to decide how to decorate; others are townhouses with private entrances and canopies. Prudential Douglas Elliman is the company responsible for sales and marketing of Tribeca Summit. Sixteen units currently show available, with the remaining in contract or sold. They are 2-4 bedroom units, the smallest selling at $2.65 million for 1751 square feet in area. The largest available unit is a 4478 square-foot four bedroom, priced at $13.65 million. Most of the remaining units are priced in the $3-4 million range. Tribeca Summit is located at 415 Greenwich Street.

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If there’s one clichéd saying that fits this unit, it’s that you can’t judge a book by its cover. The facade housing Century Tower Condos is refreshingly free of glass, but it’s also less adorned than many of the newer developments. As a conversion, the 24-story building meets expectations but may be looked over by some who think that they need to live in a flashy specimen of a home. It will be their loss, as once past the outer appearance, Century Tower has a lot to offer residents. On-site parking itself makes this place a steal; 24-hour concierge service means that there’s always someone around to help in an emergency.

Individually, the units have something for everyone. One of only a few newer developments to offer studios and three-bedroom-units in the same building, Century Tower doesn’t skimp on the important stuff. Each unit is equipped with a gourmet style kitchen (including GE and Liebher appliances) and granite countertops, hardwood floors, and ceramic tile baths. Windows are oversized to make even the smallest studio apartment seem larger. Some units have a private terrace, and all have a gas fireplace. And while many luxury condos emphasize some pre-defined notion of what looks expensive, Century Tower goes for a simple black and white contrast that works well with the contemporary styles throughout.

Century Tower Condos is located on the exclusive Upper East Side of Manhattan, where residents will have no problem finding a destination for a weekend afternoon. It’s a particularly good place for fitness buffs, with tennis courts, an Equinox fitness club and Aqua center within a few-block radius. Those who enjoy the fresh air might choose instead to walk to Central park or Carl Schurz Park and play some Frisbee or take a stroll around the neighborhood. Ethnic eateries abound, including Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian and Thai in addition to the typical American fare. Trendsetters will find fashion ideas at Gap Kids and Banana Republic.

Century Towers fits in nicely with this busy neighborhood. Residents here have their own state-of-the-art fitness center, with an outside deck for relaxing when the workout is done. Or tired muscles might find the spa with steam room and sauna a more appropriate place for workout recovery. Children can enjoy a movie or safe playtime in the children’s playroom and adults can check out their favorite movies with friends and family on a big screen television in the cinema room, which comes complete with comfortable recliner-style chairs.

Marketing here at Century Towers is being handled exclusively by Classic Marketing LLC. There are units of every size available, from the 475 square-foot studio to a 1,432 square foot three-bedroom unit. Prices range from $475,000 to $1.635 million. The three-bedroom penthouse is priced at $1.650 million.

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On what is touted as a quiet residential street in West SoHo, Philip Johnson/Alan Ritchie Architects has designed a gem of a building for folks looking for a little privacy with their luxury. The charcoal glass facade hardly exudes the impersonal air of other glass facade creations around Manhattan. These two and three-bedroom apartments are honed to appeal to busy professionals, with a succinct design and simple hues throughout. Large floor-to-ceiling windows permit natural sunlight to permeate the units, encouraging appreciation for the natural world. Windowed kitchens are a special treat for those who enjoy watching the hustle and bustle of the city below as they eat.

Residents will enjoy the development’s design choices. Four-inch wide plank walnut floors brighten up the rooms, while a custom kitchen selection of Bamboo and glass cabinetry, along with stone countertops, add a taste of the exotic. Baths were designed by Modern Arc to include mosaic glass accent tile on the bath and shower walls in addition to porcelain tile walls and floors that provide a smart contrast. A gas fireplace adorns the main room of the homes and provides an indoor respite area.

Because 22 Renwick is in a unique spot at the crux of historical and cultural areas of Manhattan, residents will find a lot of things to do around the neighborhood. The Holland Tunnel makes for a noisy walk in one direction, but walk a few blocks in the other direction and you’ll find yourself in Washington Square Park, one of the area’s most popular destinations. Here, children can play, couples can walk on one of many trails, and friends can sit down for a competitive game of Scrabble or Chess. Security cameras mounted throughout the park provide visitors with peace of mind. Also within commuting distance is Nolita, or North of Little Italy, an area known for trendy boutiques and restaurants.

While most units are half-floor two bedroom condos, the 22 Renwick’s designers have included a number of full-floor penthouses with setback terraces and plenty of exposure choices. Many of the 19 units in this twelve-story building are already in contract. The units that have sold averaged a respectable $1,300/square foot. The remaining units are well-sized two and three-bedrooms (from 1,100-1,899 square feet in area) priced to sell at between $1.45 million and $3.4 million. Occupancy is expected in June 2009. Corcoran is in charge of sales and marketing.

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Glass has become the new brick in building circles, and The Renwick is taking the trend all the way. This 44-residence building is stationed on its own block in the heart of SoHo, showcasing an all-glass façade that’s hard to miss even blocks away. But The Renwick offers exceptional additions to its banal appearance, things that distinguish it from rival developments. Included in these offerings is a list of “special” amenities longer than the average person’s arm.

Perhaps the biggest draw of living at The Renwick is the fifty-foot lap pool, where residents can enjoy swimming under natural light and take a respite in the cedar-lined sauna. But there’s more here than just the wet stuff. Fitness gurus will fall in love with the 680 square-foot private boxing gym, where residents receive one-on-one training from a 3-time world kickboxing champ. Other luxury-grade amenities include access to the in-building Taschen Art Library, full of books on everything from painting to fashion, and a 500-square-foot curated space for artwork by local and international artists. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the open air garden, complete with soothing waterfall and view of the pool below. Residents are provided with a private garage and parking areas, as well as concierge parking, which is accessible by mobile phone or through in-room communication.

Coming home from a long day at work or the gym leaves little time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, but The Renwick attempts to bring those simple little pleasures to the forefront with the addition of a home automation system. A touch screen permits residents to control everything from mood lighting to automated shades to temperature. Residents can communicate with the concierge desk or find information regarding the neighborhood from their smart panel as well.

The inside of the apartments are traditional, with everything one would expect from a luxury condominium. Eight-inch wide volcanic ash flooring covers the home in warmth, while the connected kitchen boasts a neat-looking stainless steel breakfast bar and Sub-zero fridge. Pietra Cardoso granite countertops add that unrivalled elegance, while a pull-out pantry increases the efficiency of the room. Elsewhere in the home, the bath has Wenge wood cabinetry and quartz flooring along with custom molded resin countertops. A tea for two tub from Kohler rounds things off.

The Renwick is located at 15 Renwick Street in SoHo, a beautifully unique area of Manhattan with numerous restaurants and galleries to occupy one’s afternoon. For those who aren’t into kickboxing, the Shri Yoga area is just steps away.

Sales started in June 2008, and less than ten remain. The units are one to three bedrooms, and sales/marketing is being handled by Developments Prudential Douglas Elliman. Prices range from $960,000-$1.175 million for a one bedroom, and $1.775-$2.950 million for the two bedroom units; for a three bedroom, prices hover around $3.850 million. Square footage varies, but the smallest unit is 762 square feet in area, while the largest three-bedroom unit has 1,787 square feet. Ismael Leyva Architects, the masterminds behind the Time Warner Center and 50 Gramercy Park, are also behind the design of The Renwick.

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With only eight full-floor residences, 350 West Broadway is no doubt exclusive. And while it looks like any number of other glass facade luxury developments in Manhattan, it should be noted that what’s on the inside earns it the title of distinct and elegant. Visitors will discover upon entering that they’re getting more than just beauty when they choose to live here; they’re getting aesthetics too. The lobby is inundated with work by the accomplished sculptor Peter Lane and well-respected artist Michele Oka Doner. Of course, there are other creative touches as well, with antique and contemporary furniture and “rock wallpaper,” which is anything but simple wall décor.

350 West Broadway should appeal to those with high expectations. The nine-story building looms above its neighbors, the pervasive glass complemented by “hand-chiseled black cold spring granite,” as is termed by Moed De Armas & Shannon Architects, the masterminds behind this development. These loft apartments have a high-profile Siedle security system and a key lock elevator to bring peace of mind, as well as a 24-hour doorman and virtual concierge for service. A fitness center provides convenience, as do the in-unit laundry room and same-floor private storage area. Zoned lighting and programmable Creston thermostats in the home increase the comfort level throughout.

The interiors were designed by William T. Georgis, who in his design attempts to add to the lobby’s grandeur. A grand entry foyer introduces each home, and 5″ Quartersawn White oak hardwood flooring brightens the rooms tastefully. In the kitchen, Quartersawn American black walnut adorns the cabinetry, contrasted by Bethel White granite countertops. Stainless steel adds a bit of modern efficiency in the form of a Gaggenau 36-inch gas cook top and single convection oven. Subzero and Miele add their names to the stylish decor. Continuing the classy trend, the Master bath emphasizes traditional warmth, with radiant heat flooring, a Steamist steam shower and a six foot cast iron tub. Honed statuary marble cools things off a bit.

Of course, all of this is located in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Manhattan. SoHo is a place of day spas and cafes. Italian restaurants abound, although the sushi lover might find happiness at Blue Ribbon; luxury shoppers will enjoy visiting Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

As of September 2008 there are five units available at 350 West Broadway. One is a 3-bedroom unit with a study; this home has 3,539 square feet and is priced at $10.995 million. The remaining four units are two-bedroom homes with approximately 2,900 square feet of living space. These are selling for between $9.575 and $12.2 million. Common charges range from $5,448-6,615/month. All units but the three-bedroom include outdoor space. Marketing and sales is being led by Mary Ellen Cashman and Stribling Marketing Associates. These units are eligible for the 421 tax abatement.

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Tribeca is going green! Tribeca Townhomes, the new development from A2 Investment Group and architect Vibeke Lichten, is an eleven-story glass and steel structure with six luxurious duplexes for buyers to choose from. Each unit has 12-16 foot ceilings and double-paned floor-to-ceiling windows made to reduce damaging ultraviolet light. It earned its “green” status by using recyclable construction materials and energy efficient heating and cooling methods, including solar panel heating and a Daikin temperature control system. All the appliances here are Energy-Star rated, cutting electric bills significantly.

Just because designers went energy efficient doesn’t mean that the units here at Tribeca Townhomes have to be drab or unappealing. The two-story units are decked out in Brazilian walnut floors and high-end appliances and decor, including brand names such as Miele, Subzero and Duravit. The bathroom finishes, created by Philippe Starck, complement the Master Bath steam shower and oval soaking tub. For entertainers, kitchen islands make for good social spots while dinner is cooking. A gas-burning fireplace adds that cozy ambiance, and each unit has a private terrace of Ipe wood for more intimate conversations. Guests can enjoy tasting wine from a private wine cellar.

Tribeca Townhouses is located at 16 Warren Street in Tribeca. This puts it square in the middle of the creative hub of Manhattan. Residents can explore Broadway and take a lunch-break at any number of sidewalk cafes. The farmer’s market is a great place to get ingredients for that home-cooked meal. For families, City Hall Park and Battery Park are mere steps away. The 25-acre Battery Park is a great place to find cultural and historical activities, including Pier A, a former fireboat station. Ferries for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island regularly launch from this area as well. City Hall Park offers visitors a glimpse into local history with its collection of monuments.

Sales started in March 2008, and as of September 2008 there are only two units available. While previous units sold for just under $1,850/square foot, these two are expected to go for slightly less than this. The first unit is a 3 bedroom, 2,418 square foot residence with 15-foot ceilings and a price tag of $3.295 million. The second available unit is a 2-bedroom duplex with 1,716 square feet of living space. It is priced at $2.495 million. A 421-A tax abatement is also available for residents of this development. Urban-Sanctuary Real Estate Services is responsible for sales and marketing.

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Since it doesn’t offer luxurious décor and design material, the developers here at 397 West 12th have made sure the residents are provided with a few extra security amenities, such as an elevator and keyless security system. The lobby has a 24-hour attendant for convenience, and the energy saver will enjoy the water-fueled heating and cooling system. In addition, residents will have two places for storage: one for bikes, and a cellar space for odds and ends.

The far west side of Greenwich Village has traditionally been an industrial area, but is now “growing up.” Although it is quite a walk to the nearest subway, it’s not that far from other New York pleasures. Close to the Hudson River Park, residents of 397 West 12th will find there is plenty of recreational variety here, if not a lot of retail space. Rollerbladers and runners abound, and boaters wave from the water. For fishing enthusiasts, Pier 84 is just a walk away, offering free fishing for all. Just a few blocks away is the Meatpacking district, with its trendy nightclubs and restaurants.

As of September 2008, the building has three units still available. The first is 3,613 square feet in area, with 79 square feet of storage space. This unit is intended as a 2-3 bedroom residence, and is priced to sell at $5.5 million. The second and third residences are similar, both touting just over 6,100 square feet of living space. These two-floor units are made for families and can be modified to make 3-6 bedrooms. Prices are $11.5 and $14 million. The average common charges for units are $5000-$8,333/month.

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Located at 305 East 85th Street on the Upper East Side, The Georgica promises residents a “light” and peaceful existence. Aimed at families, this development is located close to a myriad of cultural and historical venues, including museums and art galleries. For those who desire it, there are gourmet grocery stores, eateries galore and designer boutiques, making every day a new adventure.

The building itself is intended to help the mind expand, its glass and bronze facade and prolific full-height windows catching the eye with every ray of sunlight. Each floor is limited to no more than four residences, so quiet is a community keyword. Not light on amenities, Georgica seems to know how modern families are…busy, busy, busy. The well-lit fitness room has plenty of weight-training and cardiovascular exercise equipment for parents to explore, while children will enjoy the playroom with a large screen Wii to give them helpful stimulation. A roof deck caters to the entertainer, with room enough for a cookout or picnic, or just a casual get together.

Residences are decked in white herringbone floors. Some units have a cozy fireplace for colder New York nights. The master bedroom is more like a master suite, with room to sit and ponder (many units have a private terrace) or enjoy the view with the floor-to-ceiling windows. White oak floors complement the bedroom atmosphere. The kitchen is designed with efficiency in mind, with laundry or utility rooms convenient, and Calacata gold marble counter tops. Plenty of pantry room means that larger families will never need for space. In the master bath, luxury is the theme. Radiant flooring makes bath time more enjoyable, while polished Verde Antiqua marble brings the oohs and aahs. Fixtures by Kohler and Waterworks add the cherry to the pie.

To emphasize the family feel of this development, Georgica has 58 two, three and four bedroom units available. The 20-story building is priced to sell fast, with prices ranging from $1.975 million for a 2/2.5 unit, to $4.51 million for the larger 4/4.5 units. The two penthouses are $4.795 million and $5.25 million. Square footages range from 1444-2718. The Georgica will be available for occupancy in 2009 and is being marketed by Prudential Douglas Elliman’s Developments Group.

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