The Link - 310 W 52nd St - Condo

[londonlawyer]

There's an article in today's NY Post stating that a group that owns the horrible Howard Johnson's hotel on 8th and 52nd has purchased the adjacent parcel at 310 W. 52nd to create a parcel for a 37 story residential tower. The horrible HoJo is one of many trash buildings on the west side of 8th that must (and will) come down in the next few years. This is good news.

[billyblancoNYC]

There's an article in today's NY Post stating that a group that owns the horrible Howard Johnson's hotel on 8th and 52nd has purchased the adjacent parcel at 310 W. 52nd to create a parcel for a 37 story residential tower. The horrible HoJo is one of many trash buildings on the west side of 8th that must (and will) come down in the next few years. This is good news.

W. 52ND SITE SOLD FOR $9M

By LOIS WEISS

June 21, 2004 -- Vikram Chatwal's Hampshire Hotel Group has scooped up SIR Studios' mid-block building at 310 W. 52nd St. to create a development site that can hold a 37-story residential tower.

Hampshire Hotels already owns the Howard Johnson's next door, and would have moved forward with its plans with or without SIR, said Michael Johnson, president of Studio Instrument Rental New York.

In order to keep the studio from becoming "landlocked" — which would reduce the value of the property — SIR's partners decided to sell for what sources said is approximately $9 million.

Chatwal has already hired Eric Anton and Ron Solarz of Eastern Consolidated Properties to sell the site — which could hold up to a 250,000-square-foot tower — for as much as $50 million to $60 million.

Anton and Solarz declined to comment.

As the Post previously reported, the SIR business already leased space at 475 Tenth Ave. and on 25th Street, where it will continue its traditional instrument and high-tech musical computer rental operations. It is also opening a new studio.

"We will be giving peace and harmony to the studio clients," said Johnson.

http://www.nypost.com/realestate/26075.htm


The West 52nd Street site has become legendary for hosting pre-tour practice sessions for such bands as the Rolling Stones. It also frequently hosts showcase sessions for new bands and album releases.

[londonlawyer]

Thanks for posting it, Bill.

[billyblancoNYC]

Thanks for posting it, Bill.

You're welcome.

[krulltime]

CLINTON TO GET LUXURY HIGH-RISE


By LOIS WEISS
August 27, 2004

The group that just spent $675 million on the Plaza Hotel has scooped up the mid-block SIR Studios site for $43 million, where it intends to construct the first high-rise luxury condos in Clinton.

The site at 310 W. 52nd St. was bought by Miki Naftali's El-Ad Group from Vikram Chatwal's hospitality company. Chatwal combined the former SIR Studio with transferable development rights from his Howard Johnson Hotel so a larger and taller building can be constructed.

According to broker Eric Anton of Eastern Consolidated Properties who worked with partner Ron Solarz, Naftali sees the area filled with rentals as ripe for the luxury market.

"The building will have upscale amenities and wonderful views," said Anton.


Copyright 2004 NYP Holdings, Inc.

[londonlawyer]

This project is a massive let down in that the horrible HoJo hotel on 8th will remain standing. 8th Ave. between 42nd and 57th is probably the worst, most dilapidated avenue in midtown. It would have been nice to raze the HoJo eyesore and have one less filthy, horrific building infesting 8th.

[Edward]

SIR Studios building. 9 October 2004.

http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/310w52nd.jpg (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/)

[Peteynyc1]

.

[londonlawyer]

It would be nice if the developer at least put a new facade on that horrible hotel.

[krulltime]

Oh cool thanks for the rendering!!!

I like it... But why not just get rid off that hotel and put it in the new building design... It is kind of dumb to leave it there. It is ugly.

[londonlawyer]

I completely agree. The developer is such a dope for keeping a horrific eyesore in front of the new building. How much money can a gross HoJo hotel possible even make for the owners?

[Fabrizio]

How weird. The tower looks good (of course who can tell from these renderings)... at least no dumb balconies or cheesy retro touches. If only this tower had been built behind a row of restored old buildings, it would have been great. That HoJo was always just dreary... it´s not even cool 60´s modernism.

[krulltime]

Please don't tell me that the hotel was saved by some preservationist community group... 60's architecture my a$$... It is just plain stupid if that is what happen... But I doub it... I think the owner of that hotel just didnt want to give it up.

[londonlawyer]

The HoJo is owned by the developer of the tower! That's what makes it absurd!!!

[Jasonik]

The developer will put up a second tower on the HoJo lot after the first one sells out (that way he'll get full price for units that will eventually stare into another building.) Developers aint stupid.

[londonlawyer]

The developer will put up a second tower on the HoJo lot after the first one sells out (that way he'll get full price for units that will eventually stare into another building.) Developers aint stupid.

That would be nice, but I doubt it.... This is a HUGE mistake by the developer. 8th Ave. needs a serious rehab., and this project could have contributed to it.

[Fabrizio]

IF the developer revamps the HoJo´s , pointing up the 60´s architecture and doing a swanky jewell-like boutique hotel thing... this could be very very nice. Right for the area ...and about a million times nicer than the horrid Marc with it´s Duane Reade and street-front parking garage.

[Peteynyc1]

The lovely HoJo building looks to be under construction and I believe it IS getting a facelift. I hope so anyway.

[londonlawyer]

I noticed that. I hope it is too, but I doubt it. They're probably just doing something that won't change its horrific appearance.

[Fabrizio]

If they did away with the HoJo franchise and did a luxe hotel with a mid-century modern concept, it could be a gold mine. It´s wonderful to have a low buildings remain on 8th, to maintain an intimate streetscape ...and if this were handled correctly, it could become quite a destination.

[londonlawyer]

I agree, but we're dreaming. Sadly, the cheap-skate developer surely will keep that garbage HoJo eyesore in the prominent 8th Ave. location.

[macreator]

Hopefully the hotel will recieve a face lift. It's not too much of a pipedream, a few other buildings around the City including the Hippodrome office tower on 6th avenue and the formerly ugly North wing of the Lennox Hill Hospital building are each recieving much needed facelifts that make them look a great deal better than before.

[londonlawyer]

I agree with your point, but I think that this developer is too cheap to do so.

[Peteynyc1]

I was just at the sales office which is just opening up, and I must say the exterior of this building in all glass looks pretty nice. The Ho-Jo is being completely redone and converted into a Hilton. I asked how extensive the exterior work will be and their answer was that it will be upgraded to Hilton standards, which I assume will be at least an improvement. There is also going to be a small townhouse-like building next door which needed to be built to secure the air rights for this building.

[londonlawyer]

I hope that means that it will have a new glass facade.

[Fabrizio]

Low rise Hilton... townhouse integrated into project... This is how you do it to keep a neighborhood like 8th from becoming a chilling row of high-rise towers. You use creativity ...and learn from the mistakes of so much "urban renewal" of the past.

[londonlawyer]

It appears that there may be a new glass facade covering the horrific crap exterior. However, if this is new glass, the old facade appears to be visible.

Can anyone post the following image?

Hilton Garden Inn Times Square
790 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York, United States
Tel: +1-212-581-7000 Fax: +1-212-974-0291

This hotel will be joining the Hilton Family soon but is not yet accepting reservations. It is scheduled to open in August 2005.

http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/hotels/content/NYCMWGI/media/images/NYCMWGI_Hilton_Garden_Inn_Times_Square_home_right. jpg

[londonlawyer]

I actually walked by this site tonight and think that the Hilton that I posted is a re-skin and remodel of another dumpy 8th Ave. building -- the Day's Inn.

I just looked at the Day's Inn website, and the address for the NY dump is 790 8th (i.e., the same as the new Hilton Garden Inn). Therefore, it's unclear as to what, if anything, is being done with that horrible H0Jo on 52nd and 8th.

The building on 52nd is really nice and deserves an attractive neighbor on 8th.

Check out the rendering: www.thelinkny.com.

[pianoman11686]

Not bad, not bad at all. Much nicer than the Marc and some of the other residential towers in the area. So the squat, boxy building on the left of it is the HoJo? Looks ambiguously renovated/updated in the rendering.

[londonlawyer]

Yes, thanks.

By the way, the people at Elad's sales office don't know what they're talking about bec. the Days Inn -- not HoJo -- is becoming the Hilton Garden Inn, and the rendering of the renovated Hilton Inn is the Days Inn on 8th. The rendering from the Elad website shows the same dumpy HoJo. If Elad doesn't renovate that crap HoJo, I hope that his building burns down, and he loses a fortune due to poor insurance. (I don't reallly. I'm just PISSED that he's doing 8th Ave. a disservice by keeping this horrible HoJo.)

[Peteynyc1]

Well, they are obviously doing something to the Jo-Ho building because its fully under construction already. Looks more extensive than just cleaning the windows or something. I just hope they are doing major work, not just replacing the bed spreads. Wait, hotels hardly ever replace those or wash them ;)

[Peteynyc1]

correct website is http://www.thelinknyc.com/ forgot the C homey.

[londonlawyer]

correct website is http://www.thelinknyc.com/ forgot the C homey.

THanks, amigo!

[londonlawyer]

According to today's NY Times, the HoJo will become a Hampton Inn, which is owned by Hilton, and the Day's Inn will become a Hilton Garden Inn. I still hope that the dump on 8th is transformed, but I doubt it. Elad sucks as much as Silver.

[chris]

The developer will put up a second tower on the HoJo lot after the first one sells out (that way he'll get full price for units that will eventually stare into another building.) Developers aint stupid.

That's exactly what I was thinking.

I actually walked by this site tonight and think that the Hilton that I posted is a re-skin and remodel of another dumpy 8th Ave. building -- the Day's Inn.

I watched them lift that sample piece of facade into place a few months ago. I'm not sure if it is going to be a blue anodized metal, as it looks now, or if that is just a protective plastic coating over a silver metalic surface. Last Fall (or was it Summer?) I was there when a large section of upper wall collapsed off of that building (I work at 1WW Plaza). It is, um, not too structurally sound and probably should be knocked down. I don't understand why they're interested in pouring good money after bad, making further investments in the place.

A little off topic, but is there a thread here on the status of the S.W. Corner of 57th & 9th?

[lofter1]

If the Hippodrome re-skin is any indication of what we have to look forward to on 8th Ave. then we all better start holding our noses and wearing very dark sunglasses.
Check out the re-skin on the Hippodrome -- they didn't remove the old face, just applied the new glass + metal facade over it. The old windows are visible behind the new facade.
This really seems like a completely cheap + cheesy way to refurbish a building.

[BrooklynRider]

Well, they are obviously doing something to the Jo-Ho building because its fully under construction already. Looks more extensive than just cleaning the windows or something. I just hope they are doing major work, not just replacing the bed spreads. Wait, hotels hardly ever replace those or wash them ;)

All those cinder blocks you see are the new HOJO beds.

[OrionBuyer]

i put info on the website....

[Peteynyc1]

The little building to the right will be two townhouse duplexes with outdoor space. There will be a "meditation garden" on top of the parking garage behind the building on 51st Street, which the sponsor bought rights to be allowed to build on. The parking garage will be reinforced to be able to hold the new outdoor space on its roof. If they just fix up that damn hojos it should be a nice improvement to the area. Do you think this part of hells kitchen will continue to see development?

[lofter1]

There is a model of 310 W. 52nd St. building (~ 4' tall) in the sales office at the SE corner of 54th & 8th Ave.

[pianoman11686]

From cityrealty.com:

New West Side tower will have glass cube entrance 05-JUL-05

A sales office has opened on the southeast corner of Eighth Avenue and 54th Street for The Link, a new 41-story, mid-block condominium tower at 310 West 52nd Street.

The new tower, designed by Costas Kondylis and Gal Nauer, will have a glass cube entrance not too dissimilar to the one being erected by Macklowe Properties for the GM Building on Fifth Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets.

The tower is being built by Elad Properties, the new owners of the Plaza Hotel. Elad is also converting to condominiums the former Gift Building at 225 Fifth Avenue that will be known as the Grand Madison and the former O’Neill Department Store at 655 Avenue of the Americas.

The new tower will have about 145 apartments, sidewalk landscaping and multi-paned windows.

The site, which includes the SIR (Studio Instrument Rental ) building, was acquired in June, 2004 for about $9 million by Vikram Chatwal’s Hampshire Hotel Group that owned the adjoining Howard Johnson’s Hotel.

In August, 2004, the site, including transferable air rights from the Howard Johnson Hotel, was then acquired by Elad Properties for about $43 million.

[londonlawyer]

I'm still pissed with this project. That crap hotel should have been demolished. I therefore still hope that Elad loses his shirt on this and the Plaza. He could have improved 8th Ave. dramatically by razing the HoJo, which he owns!!!!

[PCG]

Hi - sorry if I'm posting this in the wrong forum/thread, but does anyone know what the prices are for the link units? Just curious.

Thanks

[Peteynyc1]

sales office has been open over a month. I was recently told building is about 1/3 sold. They have not yet released upper 10 floors. Pricing started around 1050/ft for mid floors but has increased quite a bit since then. I think its going to be a nice building and really improve 52nd St. I am looking forward to watch it go up.

[Edward]

Construction of the Link (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/), a new 41-story, mid-block condominium tower. 9 July 2005.

http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/link_310w52nd.jpg (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/)

[lofter1]

And a great shot of the back of the Howard Johnson on 8th Ave showing the final bit of the old orange exterior paneling (lower right -- the rest have been replaced by the banal silverish-aluminumish-greyish panels).

[londonlawyer]

Sadly though, the brown brick, dirty old windows and drab concrete remain on the HoJo. The silver panels really look retarded with brown brick.

[Peteynyc1]

Seems like this project is going REALLY slow. They are still digging the giant hole in the ground. Once the foundation is complete, does a building typically majorly pick up the pace?

[londonlawyer]

I still am depressed that the shi..tty hotel will remain in front of this building on the 8th Avenue side. The "renovations" to that crap hotel appear to be finished, and it looks like absolute shi...t!

[BrooklynRider]

And a great shot of the back of the Howard Johnson on 8th Ave...

The Howard Johnson is gone. The building has been cleaned up a bit and is now a Hilton Hampton Inn.

[londonlawyer]

I think that the Hojo/Hampston Inn looks every bit as crappy as before -- perhaps even moreso because the silver bits that the put on isolated parts of the facade really clash with the brown brick.

[kliq6]

building should have been demolished, i hear from some people working on the Plaza Hotel that Elad is a pain in the ass development firm that really dont know the local market that well, but thats another story for another thread

[lofter1]

The Howard Johnson is gone. The building has been cleaned up a bit and is now a Hilton Hampton Inn.
It will always be a HoJo to me...

[Peteynyc1]

Yeah it really sucks that Hojo didnt come down. I do know they had to transfer (combine?) the air rights to be allowed to build 42-43 floors in the protected Clinton development district. I guess the hojo site can never build higher than it is now, should they choose to one day remove it. I like the look of the building and its too bad it will be hidden back there. I was just wondering why they are going to damn slow. Are their resourced focused elsewhere? Tishman certainly has enough crains ;)

[lofter1]

^ The concrete workers strike in August slowed down all the building projects.

[Peteynyc1]

The crain arrives October 8th and it will start to rise.

[Stern]

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/5260/link5ey.th.jpg (http://img202.imageshack.us/my.php?image=link5ey.jpg)

http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/2791/link29tz.th.jpg (http://img397.imageshack.us/my.php?image=link29tz.jpg)

[lofter1]

These lower floor units on the east side of "The Link" will have a great view into the former HoJos ...

[lofter1]

The lovely view: http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showpost.php?p=59017&postcount=49

[lofter1]

The crane is up on this site. The entire foundation is complete. Rebar is ready for the floors to start rising.

[antinimby]

You can see part of the construction site and the crane in the lower right hand corner in Webcam 2. (http://www.wirednewyork.com/webcam2/default.htm)

[infoshare]

Saw it in web cam, great link antinimby..........thanks

[Edward]

Construction of the Link condominium (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/) continues. 9 January 2006.

http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/link_52nd_street.jpg (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/)

[americasroof]

Hell's Kitchen Chic
http://static.flickr.com/18/92403198_f46ebfcf82.jpg


http://static.flickr.com/17/92400623_a0d9f8c1b8_m.jpg

[lofter1]

I have a friend who lives in the block directly across the street to the north. The Link will certainly diminish the light into those low rise buildings.

alas....

[americasroof]

I have a friend who lives in the block directly across the street to the north. The Link will certainly diminish the light into those low rise buildings.

alas....
At the risk of giving too much personal information, TheLink will obliterate my sunlight and you will probably see a lot of posts from me about this going forward (it's about time that there's a hell's kitchen correspondent here).

For better or worse this neighborhood had always fought the "logical" westward surge with strict zoning thanks to its successful fight against a world's tallest building at 50th and 8th (now the World Financial Plaza) -- which is not to be confused with the self-inflicted fight against a world's tallest at the Hearst Tower at 8th and 56th (circa 1920s).

I collected a brick souvenir from the original glory days 50th Street Madison Square Garden at 50th and Eighth (which is not to be confused with the original Madison Square at 23rd) before the restrained World Financial Center was built.

In any event I could always find a place to park my car for under $200/month pre-Link. Now it's impossible. Each new Hell's Kitchen tower merely ups the ante.

Come the revolution...

Despite negative comments about HJ's in this thread, I had always urged folks from fly over land to visit HJ because it offered enormous rooms with great views for under $100. Now with Hilton/Hampton Inns those same rooms go for $300/night.

For the record here's a view that's about to disappear of the Hearst Tower and Time Warner (both Hell's Kitchen interlopers) that's about to disappear (the crap in the foreground is construction on TheLink)
http://static.flickr.com/15/90876722_7eb77b02e9.jpg

[macreator]

I feel your pain Americasroof, my apartment's view is directly over some walkups nearby that I realize will eventually, sooner rather than later, be torn down for some huge featureless apartment house.

Luckily I have some space between me and the wouldbe apartment building but I would still lose a very significant amount of light and the value of my apartment would probably go down a bit.

Why do I stay then? Because it is so damn hard to find the same amount of space I have now in another building in my neighborhood for a sane fee. Beyond my view I love my building, my apartment and my neighborhood and that's what is keeping me put. That isn't to say I still dread the day that I will wake up to construction cranes.

[Peteynyc1]

:eek: I just realized that the majority of The Link's beautiful Westward view of the Hudson will be short lived for all but the highest floor inhabitants. Although two 24 story buildings stretching two complete blocks from 51st to 53rd block a good chuck of the view, I think The Mosaic project will do wonders to improve the far West neighborhood.....

Previously known as Clinton Green, The Mosaic project is between 10th and 11th avenues.

Mosaic Downtown, a 24-story tower, will rise midblock between 51st and 52nd streets. The other slightly larger 24-story building known as Mosaic Uptown will rise on 10th Avenue's western block-front from 52nd to 53rd street.

When completed in the fall of 2007, the buildings will host 627 rental apartments and six loft condominiums built over two theaters, an accessory garage and street retail.
1458 1459

[Peteynyc1]

The Link is now up to about floor 16 and is beginning to rise above the hotel next door. You can start to see it decently in that webcam:
http://www.wirednewyork.com/webcam2/default.htm

Anyone know who manages the cam? Can it be adjusted slightly right to see the projects progress a little better? :D

[precision80]

:eek: I just realized that the majority of The Link's beautiful Westward view of the Hudson will be short lived for all but the highest floor inhabitants. Although two 24 story buildings stretching two complete blocks from 51st to 53rd block a good chuck of the view, I think The Mosaic project will do wonders to improve the far West neighborhood.....

Previously known as Clinton Green, The Mosaic project is between 10th and 11th avenues.

Mosaic Downtown, a 24-story tower, will rise midblock between 51st and 52nd streets. The other slightly larger 24-story building known as Mosaic Uptown will rise on 10th Avenue's western block-front from 52nd to 53rd street.

When completed in the fall of 2007, the buildings will host 627 rental apartments and six loft condominiums built over two theaters, an accessory garage and street retail.
1458 1459



thats pretty funny because i looked at one of these units and was assured that there was no more building going up west of 8th ave because of teh zoning. did something change lately?

[JCMAN320]

I feel bad for the people in the above photo of the construction whos windows and will be blocked out.

[lofter1]

thats pretty funny because i looked at one of these units and was assured that there was no more building going up west of 8th ave because of teh zoning. did something change lately?
That zoning that your helpful (but not entirely honest) Marketing Major was referring to only goes to about 10th Avenue -- west of that it's a whole different story.

[BrooklynRider]

Welcome to the world of Real Estate. You will discover that EVERYTHING in Real Estate has a disclaimer, which ultimately allows agents to lie to your face. Read all the materials - you'll find disclaimers. Even the square footage they quote you should be checked. You'd be surprised how easily a 945 Square Foot apartment becomes 1000 square feet, because it is more "marketable" - then they add the disclaimer.

You can look at a building like the Atelier on 42nd at West Street. That will be marketed and sold with people saying, "gee, I don't think you have to worry about any more development on this block." But the developer owns the adjoining parcels and, once that building is sold out, he'll put up a building that will destroy the same views he sold you on.

It's called "buyer beware."

[Peteynyc1]

But how do air rights exactly work? For example, the air rights of the famous Ho-Jo's were transferred or Sold to The Link so they could build higher in the protected district. Does that mean that the Ho-Jo's can now never build higher, protecting the immediate view of those above it facing East? Can air right ever be "bought back"?

[lofter1]

Once an "air right" is transferred and used it can't be bought back.

Air rights transfers are controlled by very arcane language, but since you asked ...

Related info below from City Planning (CPC) with some of the pages from the Zoning Resolution ( http://www.nyc.gov/html/dcp/pdf/zone/art08c01.pdf ) attached below (go to link and then, at the listing on the left, click on "81-70 Special Regulations for Theatre Subdistrict" for the full mind-numbing experience):

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release #11-01
January 26, 2001

CONTACT:
Public Affairs Officer -- (212) 720-3471
Lorna Goodman (Law Department) -- (212) 788-0999

THEATER DISTRICT ZONING REGULATIONS PROVIDING FOR AS-OF-RIGHT


TRANSFER OF THEATER AIR RIGHTS ARE UPHELD BY APPELLATE DIVISION

City Planning Chairman Joseph B. Rose and Corporation Counsel Michael Hess today announced that the Appellate Division, First Department, in a unanimous decision, has upheld the validity of the 1998 Theater Subdistrict zoning regulations which preserve the Citys theater industry. The zoning permits the sale of air rights from the Broadway theaters to sites within the Theater Subdistrict, located between 40th and 57th Streets and Sixth and Eighth Avenues. The transfer of air rights provides funds to physically preserve theaters; assures their continued use as legitimate theaters; and creates funds to invest in the increased audiences and the industrys growth. The decision allows the City to move forward with implementation of this important initiative to ensure the preservation and continued vitality of Broadways historic theaters.

Broadway theater is one of the most significant economic and cultural institutions in New York City. The industry generates in excess of two billion dollars a year and directly accounts for some 250,000 full- and part-time jobs. The concentration of over 40 Broadway theaters makes the Theater District one of the most well-known areas in the world. New York City has long recognized that the preservation of the Broadway theaters is crucial to the Citys economic and cultural vitality strength of the district and to the theater industry. The Theater Subdistrict Amendments, proposed by the Department of City Planning and adopted by the City Planning Commission and City Council in 1998, reflect the Citys most significant act to preserve the Broadway theaters in the face of an active real estate market.

Joseph B. Rose, Chairman of the City Planning Commission and Director of the City Planning Department, stated, The unanimous ruling is a triumph for the future of the Broadway theaters, the authority of the democratic process, and the integrity of our land use and environmental review procedures. The means New York City will not have to choose between economic growth and the preservation of irreplaceable cultural and economic resources. The right of the City Planning Commission and the City Council to act in the public interest has been affirmed, and reason and the rule of law have been restored to the environmental review process.

The key feature of the 1998 amendments is a preservation mechanism which allows the 25 Broadway theaters with excess development rights to transfer these rights to development sites in the Theater Subdistrict on an as-of-right basis; that is, without need for further discretionary government review. The sale of development rights must be in exchange for a covenant ensuring the operational soundness of the theater and its continued use as a legitimate theater, as well as a contribution to a Theater Subdistrict Fund for the promotion of theater use and preservation. Theaters that transfer their development rights would no longer be allowed to convert them to non-theater uses. Projects receiving transferred theater development rights could be increased in size by 20 percent.

Michael Hess, Corporation Counsel, said, I am pleased with this wonderful decision. It upholds the Department of City Plannings environmental review process and recognizes that the Citys zoning power can be used to preserve our vital theater industry.

[lofter1]

For example, the air rights of the famous Ho-Jo's were transferred or Sold to The Link so they could build higher in the protected district. Does that mean that the Ho-Jo's can now never build higher, protecting the immediate view of those above it facing East?
The former HoJos can't go higher.

The reddish brick building on the east side of 8th Ave. opposite the former HoJos is a fairly recent building where they won't go higher, but just to the east of that (mid-block and on to Broadway) are some potential sites where theoretically a much taller building (or buildings) could go up per Zoning Regs, thus affecting the views from the Link to the east.

Notice that the Link website doesn't show any of the views to the east (what you'd see is mainly the red brick building mentioned above).

Some more info here: http://hellskitchen.net/develop/news/rs980423.html

[Peteynyc1]

As boring as that stuff is written, I found it informative. thanks! I just wondered if they ever tore down the former Ho-Jo's, if they could build a new building taller than whats there now. If they are limited, my guess is that former ho will be there for a long long time, especially with the Link now leaning up against it.

[precision80]

peter, its actually not going to be agains it, there is 50ft btw the 2. the apartments in the link facing the hojo are going to esentially be in an alley.

[Peteynyc1]

peter, its actually not going to be agains it, there is 50ft btw the 2. the apartments in the link facing the hojo are going to esentially be in an alley.
That is partially incorrect. There is a portion of the building (unit A) which sticks out on the East side. This part of the building touches the portion of the hotel which also sticks out (prob the elevator shafts). For this reason the lower A Units do not have windows on the East side. I do agree, everyone below 16 will be looking right into the hotel windows. They are so close together that one would not even need a telescope for a full view:eek:

[precision80]

wow, didnt know that,. you are sure? the model on the website is not 100% accurate i think, i thought that shaft that you are referring to is the rear wall of the building and it actually extends north and south. i dont think the rendering shows that correctly.

[Peteynyc1]

Go back to posting #67 of this thread and check out the picture. This should make it pretty clear how the two buildings touch. The apartments above 16 on this side are priced significantly higher, as the view opens up once you get above the hotel which no longer has air rights to go higher.

[lofter1]

This shot below gives you a good sense of the relationship between the Link + ex-HoJos (at bottom left). seems to me that floor 16 will definitely clear the HoJos -- and even units on floors a bit lower. but notice that floor 15 (?) appears to have somewhat higher ceiling height in this rendering (as do 3, 6 and the 3 top penthouses):

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=923&d=1118203021

[MidtownGuy]

If a person wanted to find out whether air rights to a specific building, say his own, had been sold, where would that information be available?

[Peteynyc1]

If a person wanted to find out whether air rights to a specific building, say his own, had been sold, where would that information be available?

November 2005
Air rights: Making deals out of thin air

Shifts in deals overhead mirror expensive changes on the ground

By Jaffer Kolb Declining to buy what you can't see would seem to be a guiding principle of success in real estate, but in New York, that's bad advice.

Pricing for air rights, the ability to build atop or around an existing structure, has become an accurate, sensitive, and, at times, prescient index of the development market. Though it's not a large segment of the industry in New York, real estate veterans say it's wise to watch the skies – and how much little pieces of it cost.

"Typical air rights values are worth about 60 percent of comparable land values," said Robert Von Ancken, executive managing director at Grubb & Ellis' valuation and advisory group. "But clearly they can differ given the desirability of the land."

Two main factors determine the value of air rights and the frequency of their transactions: location and zoning. Not surprisingly, popular neighborhoods such as Tribeca and Soho see many air rights transactions, said Von Ancken. And areas that are zoned with no building height limitations – for example, along First, Second, and Third avenues from the Upper East Side to Gramercy – have also seen many air rights transfers.

Despite the myth that air rights provide a legal loophole to avoid zoning, they are restricted by the same limitations as any new construction.

Said Samuel Lindenbaum of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel, one of the top real estate lawyers in the city and an air rights expert, "Air rights are very much a part of zoning. Yes, you can merge lots, you can add floor area, but you will be constrained by setbacks. And you can't get around a height maximum."

According to Sandy Hornick, director of strategic planning at the Department of City Planning, merging lots is the most common form of air rights transfer. By purchasing an adjacent lot, a developer can merge two to increase the maximum floor to area ratio (FAR) of the building, which translates into an increased allowance of vertical construction. (See link to air rights map, prepared by real estate Web site propertyshark.com, below).

Lot-merging illustrates how the real estate market has come to shape the application of air rights. Where in the past, said Lindenbaum, land assemblages were common for commercial development on a massive scale, now smaller parcels use lot-merging to create more desirable residential development.

Air rights transactions have closely followed the broader trajectory of real estate in New York, shifting from commercial to residential markets.

"Now commercial land is pretty flat," said Von Ancken. "As a result, there is little incentive for commercial real estate developers to purchase air rights," as they likely wouldn't gain a significant return – a reflection simply of a weak commercial real estate market.

But with residential real estate going through the roof, air rights are no gamble, since developers know they're going to get a good return. According to Von Ancken, brokers are increasingly advising buyers and sellers whether they have and how to use their air rights.

Developers large and small see possession of air rights as an integral resource to the success of a property. It's not just a matter of going taller and bigger, though, but also of allowing an architect to create an exceptional design.

"Sometimes you will see developers buying air rights as a light-protector, so they can put windows along the side of the building that faces the lot you merged with," said Von Ancken. This attitude of using air rights to enhance design is gaining popularity, as smaller developers build up smaller parcels to their maximum heights in a fiercely competitive market.

One such developer, Angelo Cosentini of On the Level Enterprises, wanted to both maximize usable space as well as create a distinctive building. He bought the air rights of three lots adjacent to his own parcel, on Norfolk near Delancey, with rights to cantilever over all three.

"We wanted a more extensive build out," said Cosentini. By acquiring the air rights – and permission from his neighbors to cantilever his building over theirs – Cosentini could have a more flexible floor plate.

The developers hope their Blue condo, designed by Bernard Tschumi Architects, will stand out from the surrounding area, which, based on its scale, shouldn't be a problem: With the extra air rights, the blue-glazed building can rise eight stories higher than it would as a single parcel.

For anyone familiar with the area, this height is far from keeping with the low scale of the Lower East Side. Cosentini defends its character. "The building is visible, it won't be buried by other buildings," he said. "I think having varying building heights is aesthetically pleasing."

Local community groups pushing for rezoning tend to disagree. Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in community efforts to protect neighborhood character through downzoning and contextual zoning. Activist groups such as the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation, led by executive director Andrew Berman, have aggressively pushed for the DCP to protect areas from overdevelopment.

"We have to worry a lot about the transfer of air rights creating ridiculously out-of-place buildings," said Berman, "A contextual envelope means we have to worry a lot less."

In areas such as West Chelsea, air rights are being determined in relation to special zoning circumstances, such as the planned conversion of the High Line into a public park. To prevent development from encroaching on the new greensward, the DCP allows the transfer of air rights from properties beneath and adjacent to the High Line elsewhere within the district.

Certain building types tend to sell more air rights – usually institutional or symbolic buildings that are typically low in scale or don't require massive square footage. Government buildings such as Grand Central Station and the James A. Farley Post Office, which is being converted into Moynihan Station, have had highly publicized and record-setting air rights sales. The Church of the Epiphany on York Avenue on the Upper East Side is selling air rights to build condominiums above itself. One church on the Upper East Side recently sold air rights for $235 per square foot – according to Von Ancken, one of the highest prices ever paid for air rights.

In the link below, the map from propertyshark.com shows sites all over New York City that are sitting on large amounts of unused air rights (the map can also be viewed at propertyshark.com (http://www.propertyshark.com/maps/?basemap=fargap)).

These include large swaths of land at the foot of the Upper West Side; small areas along the East River, including around the United Nations and in the southeastern portion of the Lower East Side; and large zones in Queens – areas which are sure to experience a wave of development, as more and more people understand real estate's hottest commodity.

http://www.propertyshark.com/maps/?basemap=fargap

[lofter1]

I think that map is out of date, especially regarding the area around Hudson Yards, Garment District & Hells Kitchen which were recently rezoned with new FARs.

[sfenn1117]

3/2/06

http://i2.tinypic.com/ouvdhh.jpg

[precision80]

woa. its getting up there hu?

[Peteynyc1]

It appears that the Wired NY webcam #2 was adjusted slightly right, and there is now a much better live view of The Link progress (lower right corner)

http://www.wirednewyork.com/webcam2/default.htm

[Peteynyc1]

I walked by the building yesterday, it looks to be up to about Floor 25 or 26. It is now well above the top of the hotel by about 9 floors, and you can see it sneaking over the top from 7th Ave at 51st St. The glass is now up on the lower 3 or 4 floors. Wish I had a camera with me when I was there, the glass windows look sharp.

[antinimby]

Wish I had a camera with me when I was there, the glass windows look sharp.A good forumer should always have a camera on hand at all times. ;)

[Edward]

The construction of the Link condo (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/). 24 March 2006.

http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/link_condo.jpg (http://www.wirednewyork.com/real_estate/310w52nd/)

[rskate61]

Hi, what floor are they up to on the current picture?
Looks like they are doing two floors a week.

Also, once a building is topped off, how long does it
usually take before they complete the inside stuff
and open the building?
Thanks

[Peteynyc1]

They are definitely going fast now, about 2 floors a week. I walked by there yesterday and they look to be up to 27. I was told by the sales office that they will possibly release the completed apartments in 3 sections. I am assuming the lower ones first, where they are already aggressively completing the windows. I don't know exactly when completion date is planned aside from what i was originally told of Q1 of next year, weather dependant (weather has been optimal). I would say some of the last units to be done will be where the exterior elevator runs up the side of the building. This looks to be running right up the one bedroom units on the West Side (C unit). Hard to tell, but looks like a room in the 2 bed B unit may be effected by the exterior elevator as well.

[Peteynyc1]

Has anyone stopped by the sales office or know anyone working on the job? Are they on schedule? Any estimated completion dates, even though still a long way off? Any info would be appreciated. Guess I should drag my butt over there one day :D We need some fresh pics! This building is damn thin, looks unstable.

[aural iNK]

April 12, 2006

http://www.graffitibiz.com/link-01.jpg

http://www.graffitibiz.com/link-02.jpg

[Fabrizio]

Makes the HoJo´s at the left look like a modern masterpiece.

[lofter1]

Those window frames seem much more, ummm, substantial than promised.

Somehow the actual building doesn't have the light and airy feeling of the model ...

http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/2791/link29tz.jpg (http://imageshack.us/?x=my6&myref=)

[Peteynyc1]

Thanks for posting those pics. OK now I can ask, will they cover the cement with something?

[lofter1]

oh, they better ...

(most likely aluminum panels on the exposed concrete and floor plates)

[sfenn1117]

I was just going to say, don't tell me those white stripes are going to stay bare concrete.

This whole project is a disappointment. Why the developer would keep the hotel and not build this building directly on 8th is beyond me.

[lofter1]

btw: What does one do with those awkward round pillars at the corners? (other than continually sweep out the dust that collects between them and the windows)

[Peteynyc1]

I am not 100% sure, but I think the hotel owner bought the property, held it for a short time and then flipped it, selling it to Elad along with the hotels air rights for a huge profit. If they had at least re-skinned the hotel to look like the new building it would have helped, but painting those orange panels blue was a pretty weak attempt at upgrading the building.

[Peteynyc1]

btw: What does one do with those awkward round pillars at the corners? (other than continually sweep out the dust that collects between them and the windows)

What to do with those poles? I like to have women sliding up and down them, but it may be a little tight in the corner there.

[LeCom]

Exceptionally fast construction

https://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/04/453540.jpg

https://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/04/453541.jpg

https://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/04/453542.jpg

https://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/04/453543.jpg

https://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2006/04/453546.jpg

[lofter1]

It looks like they are about up to floor # 35.

This one should top out very soon.

[Fabrizio]

Man those glass walls look flimsy, but it´s a lot nicer looking now that we see it taller and at a distance.....it´s about a zillion times nicer looking then the condo tower next door.

The Hampton Inn logo should be a giant cootie.

[lofter1]

The Hampton Inn logo should be a giant cootie.

Great idea ...

http://www.worldwar1.com/dbc/gif/louse2.gif

Vast Improvement!

http://www.miqel.com/images_1/random_images/r1/cootie.jpg

[Peakrate212]

How are sales going at THE LINK?

[Peteynyc1]

How are sales going at THE LINK?

When I was in the sales office about a month and a half ago they said sales were going great and they were up to 70% sold. They also told me the 1 bedroom A line was sold out all the way up to the 36th floor, with the last just being released.

[Fabrizio]

Lofter: Lol. You´ve got me itchin´and scratchin´.

[lofter1]

For Fabrizio: Your IDEA applied ...

Welcome to the all NEW "Cootie Inn" :

ooooo

[Peteynyc1]

For Fabrizio: Your IDEA applied ...

Welcome to the all NEW "Cootie Inn" :

ooooo

Awesome! Sadly enough, it actually looks better that way.

Now the hotel looks twice as old and ugly next to that modern building next door. When they did those weak ass renovations, they should have totally reskinned the exterior with some sort of matching glass, then they could have commanded even higher nightly rates. Better yet, they should have knocked it down. I think greed prevented either from happening.

[rskate61]

I also thought the side of the hotel with that service entrance and ugly air exhaust/duct work takes away from the building entrance area. You think they would have knocked that down or at least hide it better. I wonder if they will clean all that up, they way it's shown in the website mockup....

[Peteynyc1]

I went by the sales office today. Building will top out the first week in June and is currently on schedule. Move in dates are estimated to be Jan thru March 07 from bottom to top. 2 Bedrooms now start at 1.7M :eek:

[sfenn1117]

I would have asked how (or if) they were going to cover up all the exposed concrete.

[lofter1]

You read my mind.

I went by the other day and asked just that: the sales woman behind the desk said "yes" to metal panels over all the exposed concrete.

[BrooklynRider]

It's a rather "clean" design. No gimmicks.

[Peteynyc1]

You read my mind.

I went by the other day and asked just that: the sales woman behind the desk said "yes" to metal panels over all the exposed concrete.

I would imagine they have to cover the cement or it's just going to look retarded, especially those extra wide strips running vertically down the sides of the building. The cement is dirty and stained, too wide to just leave. But then again, I never thought 325 Fifth would leave an entire side of the building as just cement.

I agree, this building is nice and clean that way, no neighboring air rights / future right to build to contend with so windows could be placed all around. No ugly balconies hanging off the sides.

Standing in Columbus Circle today, I noticed the very top floors have a clear view of the Circle and I suppose a sliver view of Central Park as well.

[Peteynyc1]

Counted the floors this afternoon. It looks like 41 are completed and they are working on the columns for Floor 42 today. Total floors for this building were increased at some point from 43 to 44, as per the offering plan. Its about time to build the penthouses I guess.

Most recent Wired webcam shot....

http://www.wirednewyork.com/webcam2/wirednewyork2.jpg

[antinimby]

A recent pic by Comelade on his last trip to New York. Thanks Comelade.

http://nyc2006.free.fr/Worlwide%20Plaza/Worlwide%20Plaza%203.JPG

[RS085]

this one shot up like a ****in heroin addict. when exactly did it start construction?

[antinimby]

Late last summer around August. The foundation took the longest while the actual tower portion went up relatively fast.
Btw, it has topped out already. That photo was taken about 3 weeks ago.

[Peteynyc1]

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/LI1.jpg

Slightly more recent picture from 6/3/06 showing it just about topped out, borrowed from Scruffy on Skyscraper Page.

[londonlawyer]

The developer needs to add a new facade to the filthy HoJo (or whatever it's called these days). How they expect to sell multimillion dollar apartments in a building located next to a decrepit flea bag motel is beyond me.

[antinimby]

It's now called the Hampton Inn :in a snooty British accent with eyes closed and the nose slightly tilted upwards:

Anyway, that Inn is horribly designed. Who in their right mind would make the streetwall (on a corner on a busy 8th Ave. no less) completely blank from top to bottom? I know this building was built many years ago, but is incompetency rampant in the architectural world?

[pianoman11686]

I don't know where you get British and snooty. Hampton Inn is a midscale Hilton hotel. And while the building on a whole still sucks, at least they've updated the street level to make it seem less rundown.

[Peteynyc1]

I don't know where you get British and snooty. Hampton Inn is a midscale Hilton hotel. And while the building on a whole still sucks, at least they've updated the street level to make it seem less rundown.

Ironically, those Hampton Inn rooms are some of the largest and nicest I have seen in NYC in the low - mid range. Still no tenant in that updated retail space they built out last Summer. I wonder if when the building is completed they are going to at least update the 52 Street side a bit. The hotel service entrance right next to the future entrance of the Link is disgusting. The renderings show trees planted and the area cleaned up. We'll see how cheap the sponsor becomes. I hear they are over 80% sold so does he have much insentive at this point?

[Stern]

Im not a big fan of the Link. It looks like a new UES luxury apartment building, this approach is never excusable, but is even more erroneous here in what should be a busy midtown commercial district.

[antinimby]

I don't know where you get British and snooty. Hampton Inn is a midscale Hilton hotel. And while the building on a whole still sucks, at least they've updated the street level to make it seem less rundown.Geez, piano you read everything too literally. There was no implication that the Inn chain was British. Just wanted to use a British accent to put in a little emphasis in a sort of sarcastic tone. Lighten up!;)

[antinimby]

Im not a big fan of the Link. It looks like a new UES luxury apartment building, this approach is never excusable, but is even more erroneous here in what should be a busy midtown commercial district.Can you use what we have so far as an example of what you would like to see there instead?

[pianoman11686]

Geez, piano you read everything too literally. There was no implication that the Inn chain was British. Just wanted to use a British accent to put in a little emphasis in a sort of sarcastic tone. Lighten up!;)

I just didn't understand what you meant by it, that's all.

[Stern]

Can you use what we have so far as an example of what you would like to see there instead?

What do you mean exactly? A building built elsewhere that I would like to replace here?

[antinimby]

OK, let me rephase then.

You said the Link is inappropriate in that part of town, so naturally the question is, what would you have preferred to see there instead?

[Stern]

OK, let me rephase then.

You said the Link is inappropriate in that part of town, so naturally the question is, what would you have preferred to see there instead?

Something more befitting of a Commercial District and Avenue. My problem isn't so much with the buildings use as it is with the architecture that reflects it. I don't want to see the UES luxury package; doorman, residents gym and spa, which this building architecture reflects. Something like Norman Foster's proposal for Lexington Avenue would look good here, something even more daring would look even better.

[antinimby]

I'm sure I know what you're talking about but I think Foster's Lexington is not a good example. It has a lot in common with the Link except it's taller. I think you really meant to say something along this line: 785 8th Ave (http://wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9353).
Right? ;)

Btw, where have you been? Haven't heard much from you lately.

[Stern]

I'm sure I know what you're talking about but I think Foster's Lexington is not a good example. It has a lot in common with the Link except it's taller. I think you really meant to say something along this line: 785 8th Ave (http://wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9353).
Right? ;)

Btw, where have you been? Haven't heard much from you lately.

When you asked the question two buildings immediately came to mind, Foster’s Lexington Avenue Tower and the Trump World Tower. As I said a more daring design would also look good here, since NYC doesn’t have too many daring tall residentials, the two tall residentials in Australia, Eureka and Gold Coast come to mind and would do a great job here. While Im not sold on 785 8th Avenue I like the general direction of the design. I’ve always had affection for tall slender buildings. Im not a fan of the infamous sliver buildings. My interest developed before I had any interest in architecture. I remember sitting in a classroom looking at a poster of lower-Manhattan, there was the WTC dominating the view but what really caught my eye was the Marine Midland Bank. From the poster you could only see its Western face and I was downright impressed by its impressive height to width ratio. It had a presence in a dynamic cityscape, it symbolized a city that people wanted to live and work in so badly that buildings were built in a fashion that compromised engineering and comfort, and as evident by its dignified face, it was entirely acceptable. Marine Midland, Trump World, and Foster’s Lexington Avenue Tower all have great forms. The link is formless. To me it’s not a building that embodies or belongs in a NYC commercial district; it’s an UES luxury doorman building nothing more, nothing less.


As far as where I've been I was in Florida for a week. I browsed the forum but didn't post during that time, I missed the WNY community though and I look forward to becoming active again.

[Scruffy88]

few more from the past 2 weeks

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/LI11.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/LI8.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/LI9.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/LI4.jpg

[Citytect]

Wwwavey glass.

[stache]

Yup.

[Scruffy88]

Does anyone know whats going to cover all that exposed concrete between these windows. it looks cheap right now

[londonlawyer]

I imagine that it will be aluminum.

[Peteynyc1]

I haven't been by there lately, but from the webcam it looks like the crain is gone now. Anyone know?

[Scruffy88]

the crane is gone. I managed to sneak into a few high up places so pardon the pics through glass with reflections and glare

6/17
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00142.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00128-1.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00110-1.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00177.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00179.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00181.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c81/Scruffy88/DSC00182.jpg

That exposed concrete looks nasty. But do scaffolding to cover it up. The only thing i can think of is painting it with the window washing unit. But painted concrete looks nasty. not too impressed with this one

[MidtownGuy]

When I passed buy the other day, it looked so bad, WORSE than the pictures can convey.

[stache]

Future crappy vertical slum.

[Peteynyc1]

I don't see how they could possibly just leave that cement as is. If you look closely in the picture you can see how raw it looks. The artist renderings clearly show covering. When they add alluminum covering, can it be done with window washer type equipment?

[lofter1]

I reported here a few weeks back that I was told by a rep at the sales office that ALL exposed concrete will be covered with metal panels ...

[precision80]

i was told from one of the sales reps that the west facing units would have beautiful unobstructed views and by looking at the pictures just posted there is a nice big building on 10th ave blocking that unobstructed view.

[lofter1]

That's almost two long blocks away --- the area between The Link and that building is zoned low-rise, so nothing tall will go up in proximity to The Link to the west.

There are many more building sites in Hells Kitchen from 10th Ave to the Hudson that could (and most likely will be) built upon in the future.

[Peteynyc1]

That's almost two long blocks away --- the area between The Link and that building is zoned low-rise, so nothing tall will go up in proximity to The Link to the west.

There are many more building sites in Hells Kitchen from 10th Ave to the Hudson that could (and most likely will be) built upon in the future.

That is still a pretty decent protected view to the West of two long Avenues. There is actually a second building just to the North of this new building going up as well as part of the development. The views of the water will be impaired but you will be 2-4 avenues closer and more conveniently located near midtown. That walk to work from the Altier on way west 42nd will be brutal in winter for example!!

What I do like about this building is that air rights were transferred from the giant cootie hotel to the East and the West is protected in the district, so no silly horrible looking blank cement wall had to be used like so many buildings today ie 325 Fifth!

[Derek2k3]

The building looks decent in this pic from across the river. Beats the Biltmore for sure.
"New York City Skyline" (http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/9953/img08410vl.jpg)

[Peteynyc1]

I heard the building is over 70% sold as of few weeks ago. Anybody who bought in this building read this thread? If so, please shoot me a private message.

[Peteynyc1]

NEW YORK.- El-Ad Properties and Tishman Construction Corporation (TCC), serving as Construction Manager, have reached the highest point of the structure for Hell’s Kitchen’s newest luxury condominium tower, called The Link. Construction of the 44-story glass building, located at 310 West 52nd Street, began 12 months ago and is scheduled for completion by the first quarter of 2007.

El-Ad Properties, owner and developer of The Link, was represented at topping out ceremonies by its President and CEO, Miki Naftali, who thanked all involved in the construction of this dramatic new apartment tower, which features cutting-edge design and attention to detail.

Also speaking at the event was TCC’s Chief Operating Officer, Jay Badame, who, drawing on the building’s name, noted, “In our world, we who finance, develop, design and build projects, have inextricable links to each other. We all need to do our part in the chain to achieve success. I’m happy that we have accomplished that on this development.”

Speaking to members of the entire project team, TCC President, John Livingston, thanked the many who have worked so tirelessly and skillfully to build The Link, and in particular, El-Ad Properties, for the confidence it has conferred on Tishman Construction Corporation, which is currently engaged in several Manhattan projects for the developer.

The Link, straddling a site between Midtown Manhattan and the Special Clinton District—where building heights are limited to 70 feet—features a 471-foot high-rise and adjoining mid-rise to the west to satisfy the dual zoning requirements. Thus, the tower will offer residents “protected” views, amplified by an aluminum window wall system allowing floor-to-ceiling glass installed in a façade of metallic column covers and aluminum slab covers.

The 215-unit building, designed by the New York-based team of Costas Kondylis and Partners and Gal Nauer Architects will feature one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes that range in size from 600 sq. ft. for one bedrooms to 2,500 sq. ft. for three-bedroom townhouse and penthouse homes, the latter of which will feature large outdoor terraces. A six-story townhouse is attached to the base of the tower in the Clinton Special Preservation District. This offers two private town homes that are tethered to a full service condominium tower, the anonymity of a town home with services of a condominium.

All residences will be individually wired for multi-phone lines, high speed Internet and digital TV while custom kitchens by Poggen Pohl will feature bluestone counter tops, Sub Zero refrigerators and Bosch dishwashers and cook tops. Common amenities will include Full-time doorman, two professionally landscaped gardens that are accessible only to the building, a fitness center, lounge and private storage for the residences.


http://artdaily.com/section/lastweek/index.asp?int_sec=11&int_new=16150&int_modo=2

[rskate61]

Hi all - I have some nice shots from *within* the link
for apt 35J looking out, but I cannot upload them due
to file size. (each one is 1.5 meg jpeg) Any suggestions
since I see other people have pics on the thread?

[Peteynyc1]

I used Internet explorer to open my JPG. Right click on the pic you want to place on the thread and copy. Then go to the thread and paste it.

[precision80]

how did you get them, did they take you up?

[rskate61]

Hi, I'm still having trouble getting the picitures up. If someone wants to send me an email, I'll be happy to zip them up and send them out.

I didn't go up, one of the sales folks was nice enough to send them to me. More than likly one of the workers took a few shots. The pictures are for apt 35J by the edge of the living room, home office and bedroom from what I can tell, but I'm not sure. (North and East views)

I was also told that a full model will be open sometime late Aug on a high floor. I think they said 37.

[antinimby]

rskate, go here to upload your files: http://imageshack.us/
This is a good place to host your image files.
Wirednewyork's limit is only 150 kb so don't even bother.

[rskate61]

okay, I think will work.

[rskate61]

Here's another one. Both from 35 J apt

[rskate61]

I think this is looking at the 35 J bedroom

[Citytect]

That's a great view. Nice mix of lowrise and highrise buildings. A number of landmark towers. A slice of Central Park. Wish I had a view like that.

[rskate61]

I think this one is the home office view, again 35J

[antinimby]

^ New York is so boxy. :(

[ramvid01]

^ New York is so boxy. :(

heres a thought, imagine all of the skyscrapers in ny had a sloped roof, then we would be probably complainng that its too sloped :p .

[ablarc]

In some cities zoning requires fancy headpieces on new 'scrapers.

[pianoman11686]

Charlotte comes to mind. Any others?

[TREPYE]

In some cities zoning requires fancy headpieces on new 'scrapers.

I've asked this question before and I'll keep asking.... Why cant NYC do this????

[stache]

Because New York is primarily focused on money. It has always been our Dutch legacy.

[goinback@mac.com]

I've looked at The Link and like the location, rooms and views it offers. My question has to do with one of investment potential a 1 or 2 bedroom the Link can offer. I would not be able to begin using the condo I want to purchase for at least approx 10 years, so I wonder about buying now, then renting until then. The other option of course is not purchasing now, waiting until we are ready to move back to NYC, but of course not knowing what the real estate market will have available at that time, and perhaps missing out on this opportunity.


Any Thoughts?

[alibrot]

I've looked at The Link and like the location, rooms and views it offers. My question has to do with one of investment potential a 1 or 2 bedroom the Link can offer. I would not be able to begin using the condo I want to purchase for at least approx 10 years, so I wonder about buying now, then renting until then. The other option of course is not purchasing now, waiting until we are ready to move back to NYC, but of course not knowing what the real estate market will have available at that time, and perhaps missing out on this opportunity.


Any Thoughts?

if you are investing, as i assume any financial advisor would tell you, you should be diversified. consider the market value of the apt compared to your net worth and all your investments (including the house you're in now) and decide how much you want in real estate, and how much you want in other assets. forget about moving back to nyc. who knows what you needs will be in 10 years.

[ablarc]

Charlotte comes to mind. Any others?
Don't know if it's formalized in law, but Boston's Mayor Menino has and continues to ask for them on tall office buildings.

[Peteynyc1]

I've looked at The Link and like the location, rooms and views it offers. My question has to do with one of investment potential a 1 or 2 bedroom the Link can offer. I would not be able to begin using the condo I want to purchase for at least approx 10 years, so I wonder about buying now, then renting until then. The other option of course is not purchasing now, waiting until we are ready to move back to NYC, but of course not knowing what the real estate market will have available at that time, and perhaps missing out on this opportunity.

Look at past performance of the Manhattan real estate market. Sure there are some ups and downs just like the stock market, but average out and look at long term growth. Had you bought a 1 or 2 bedroom 10 years ago from today, do you think you would be happy with your investment? Hell yeah! Would it be nice to be moving into your 2 bedroom you bought back then for 300,000 and is already 1/3 paid off in its mortgage? Most def. If you can afford the closing cost and 10 or 15% your contract asks for, and you are willing to deal with renting the apartment (and the risk sometimes associated should you not be able to find someone at some point in the 10 years), I think you could do quite well. Are prices really going to come down over 10 years? The only thing stopping this city is a complete decline in the USA economy in which most investments will be screwed, or a major world event (terrorism). If you decide you don't want to move here in 10 years, you can always just sell. Even if the price stayed the same, you would pocket all that rent money. Sounds to me like good insurance you will have something here, should you wish to carry out your plan and move here in 10 years.

[alibrot]

Even if the price stayed the same, you would pocket all that rent money. Sounds to me like good insurance you will have something here, should you wish to carry out your plan and move here in 10 years.

not at all...assuming the rent pays the expenses of owning (interest costs, property taxes, maintenance, any interior work), and if the value increases 50% over the 10 years, thats a pretty crappy investment, considering that you can buy a 10 year no-risk FDIC insured CD for ~5.7% (75% gain over 10 years compounded annually). If the price of the apt stayed the same, then its a horrid investment. But such are the invesment blinders some people put on when they buy real estate. Ask anyone who bought in 1987 and sold in 1997.

[Peteynyc1]

not at all...assuming the rent pays the expenses of owning (interest costs, property taxes, maintenance, any interior work), and if the value increases 50% over the 10 years, thats a pretty crappy investment, considering that you can buy a 10 year no-risk FDIC insured CD for ~5.7% (75% gain over 10 years compounded annually). If the price of the apt stayed the same, then its a horrid investment. But such are the invesment blinders some people put on when they buy real estate. Ask anyone who bought in 1987 and sold in 1997.

I was thinking more if the rent covered the mortgage, abated taxes, and low maint if one had to put down, say, 20% total. I guess rent wouldn't cover it though.

[precision80]

Not just will the payment not be covered, but by the time you move in there will be much better and updated buildings. Put the 15-20% you would have put down in an account and earn the interest, then you will have a larger down payment to put down in 10 years and will be able to get an even better place. Just my 2 cents. If you were thinking maybe 3-5 yrs id say go for the link, but 10yrs is a very long time to look ahead (and deal with tenants).

[precision80]

http://www.nypost.com/realestate/furnish_line_realestate_.htm

cool.

[lofter1]

This ^^ doesn't include the lighting??

Via The Link's partnership with SoHo-based furniture showroom Troy, buyers will be able to snap up a 26- or 30-piece furniture set. The packages, which cost $65,000 or $79,000, include all furniture for the bedroom, living room, dining room and office. (You'll have to bring your own mattress and lamps.)


Heck I should go into the "I'll furnish your new condo" business -- clearly there is a wide profit margin there, even at these prices.

I know -- TROY is very high end, but still ...

Here's a 26 piece package @ a mere $35K. pm me ;) -- I get to pocket the other $30K ;) ;)
2 arm chairs @ $1.5K ea = $3K
Occasional Chair = $1K
Sofa @ $3K = $3K
Ottoman @ $1K = $1K
2 Side Tables @ $500 ea = $1K
Coffee Table @ $1K
Console Table = $1K
Upholstered Bench = $1K
Dining Table = $2K
6 Dining Chairs = $3K
Desk = $2K
Desk Chair = $1K
Bookshelves = $4K
Sideboard = $3K
King Bed = $3K
2 Bedside Tables @ $500 ea = $1K
2 Dressers @ $2K ea = $4K

[precision80]

I was going to do it but they dont throw in the lamps so i decided not to.

Id love to see what you actually get for that.

[lofter1]

Take a gander: http://www.troysoho.com/enter.html

[precision80]

some real nice looking stuff.

[rskate61]

Hmm, for less money, you can buy very top end stuff
at B&B Italia or Maurice Villency, and have it custom
made to your spec. I also don't know if I would want to
buy what everyone else buys..

[Derek2k3]

http://static.flickr.com/98/208709265_3e65de7843_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/97/208710819_d4e59f1016.jpg
Taken today by me, 8/6/06

[precision80]

Walked past today and they have started to put up the aluminum covers over the concrete. They were only up to the 2nd floor or so but from what i saw they looked like cheap plastic covers. Maybe once everything is together it may look better.

[lofter1]

Same thing happened at 1600 Broadway -- but once they were put up all over the the entire building at least it looked like a unifed piece -- and the floor-plate covers became basically unnoticeable.

[macreator]

I didn't originally, but I've got to say, I've gotten to like the exposed concrete facade. It contrasts really nicely with the glass used on the building's windows in my opinion.

[LeCom]

Bland.

[rskate61]

Here's a picture of the link with covers going up on the East facing side

[stache]

I like the concrete better.

[Peteynyc1]

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i210/Scruffy69/DSC01974.jpg

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i210/Scruffy69/DSC01973.jpg

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i210/Scruffy69/DSC01966.jpg

[TREPYE]

^ the gleaming Hearst really puts this latest banality to shame.

[pianoman11686]

Looks pretty much like the rendering. Not great, but better than a lot of other recent stuff. Wish that Hampton Inn turd could have been demolished. That thing sucks.

[LeCom]

^ the gleaming Hearst really puts this latest banality to shame.
That is actually probably its best angle. Makes the tower look interesting and tall. Props to Scruffy for the shots.

[londonlawyer]

...Wish that Hampton Inn turd could have been demolished. That thing sucks.

I agree. I hope that this project is a failure because the greedy developers had the opportunity to tear down the piece of ____ hotel and chose not to. I would not want to spend $1.5m on a two bedroom next to that dumpy hotel.

[lofter1]

There is a parking lot (http://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/PropertyProfileOverviewServlet?boro=1&houseno=315&street=w.+51st+street&requestid=0&s=A03C41B885B461E4F46BD08866A7430E) (approx. 40' x 100') at 313-315 W. 51st St. just behind and katty-corner to the SW of the Orion tower (separated from the Orion by a 4-story building at 311 (http://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/PropertyProfileOverviewServlet?requestid=3&bin=1025226) W. 51st).

The C of O (http://a810-cofo.nyc.gov/cofo/M/000/059000/M000059555.PDF) says this parking lot is in a "C 6-1 Zoning District".


The Google MAP (http://www.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=315+w.+51st+street,+new+york,+ny&ie=UTF8&z=18&ll=40.763377,-73.986418&spn=0.001759,0.005316&t=h&om=1) attached below shows the configuration and the relationship of these plots:1. The Link

2. Hampton Inn

3. Parking Lot at 313-315 W. 51st

4. 4-Story at 311 W. 51st
I wonder what the possibility is of another tower going up on that parking lot site might be?

***

[londonlawyer]

That would be nice. This "hotel" must go, as should the horrible rent-regulated buildings on the northern side of the block. They're disgusting.

[lofter1]

The north side of which block? 52nd or 51st?

[Peteynyc1]

I agree. I hope that this project is a failure because the greedy developers had the opportunity to tear down the piece of ____ hotel and chose not to. I would not want to spend $1.5m on a two bedroom next to that dumpy hotel.

I state again I think the greed was more on the part of the hotel owners (Vikram Chatwal's Hampshire Hotel Group) and less on the park of ELAD. ELAD bought the parcel for 43M from Hamphire who flipped it at a 34M profit (with the needed air rights). I blame Hamphires greed, lack of experience in real estate development, as well as them not willing to take a risk and build something themselves.

At least they could have taken a couple million and re-skinned the hotel to match the development behind it. A sleek looking blue glassed hotel could have commanded a few extra bucks per room per night to pay for the upgrades. The hotel is not bad on the inside and the rooms are decently upgraded. Just looks like crap on the outside and they had every chance to fix it last year when they did their upgrades. Instead we got orange panels turned grey and the creation of new street level retail space that they apparently are having trouble renting. It has sat vacant ever since. Greed, greed, greed.

[londonlawyer]

The north side of which block? 52nd or 51st?

I don't know what street it is offhand, but the northside of the block of which the Link's northern facade is on the southside.

[lofter1]

Could you be referring to the 1940's 6-story building at 305 W. 52nd (http://www.cbhk.com/property/property.asp?PRM_MLSNumber=256403&PRM_MlsName=Kinnexus&VAR_AgentCode=19088&VAR_OfficeCode=2010201) (aka 301-309 W. 52nd / 871 - 879 8th Ave. and which has a sister that backs up to it, facing onto it at 300 W. 53rd (http://bellmarc.com/search/profile.asp?liststatus=sold&list_num=C1105874E-KOO)) at the NE corner of 8th Ave. & 52nd St. (both seen in the upper right hand corner of the attached photo above)?

I have some friends who wouldn't be too happy with that ...

Those are perfectly respectable and well maintained buildings -- classic NYC "Class A Multiple Dwellings" (as per the C of O (http://a810-cofo.nyc.gov/cofo/M/000/029000/M000029300.PDF) ).

Both contain condos + rentals.

The entry and front of 305 W. 52nd:

http://images1.e-net.com/mls/import/Kinnexus/property/full/256403_1005.jpg

http://www.corcoran.com/images/media/BldgPhotos/1016.1.jpg

The entry and front of 300 W. 53rd ...

http://bellmarc.com/pictures/snapshot/large/12230.JPG

http://bellmarc.com/pictures/snapshot/large/12231.JPG

[lofter1]

At least they could have taken a couple million and re-skinned the hotel to match the development behind it. A sleek looking blue glassed hotel could have commanded a few extra bucks per room per night to pay for the upgrades. ... Just looks like crap on the outside and they had every chance to fix it last year when they did their upgrades. Instead we got orange panels turned grey ...

There is a horrid little 1-story service entrance to the hotel on W. 52nd just to the east of the Link that frames the Link's exterior entry courtyard. On top is some nasty looking mechanical equipment -- currently partially hidden behind a sidewalk scaffold, but fully in view from the lower level units in the Link.

It will be interesting to see what becomes of this in the future ...

[londonlawyer]

Could you be referring to the 1940's 6-story building at 305 W. 52nd (http://www.cbhk.com/property/property.asp?PRM_MLSNumber=256403&PRM_MlsName=Kinnexus&VAR_AgentCode=19088&VAR_OfficeCode=2010201) (aka 301-309 W. 52nd / 871 - 879 8th Ave. and which has a sister that backs up to it, facing onto it at 300 W. 53rd (http://bellmarc.com/search/profile.asp?liststatus=sold&list_num=C1105874E-KOO)) at the NE corner of 8th Ave. & 52nd St. (both seen in the upper right hand corner of the attached photo above)?

I have some friends who wouldn't be too happy with that ...

Those are perfectly respectable and well maintained buildings -- classic NYC "Class A Multiple Dwellings" (as per the C of O (http://a810-cofo.nyc.gov/cofo/M/000/029000/M000029300.PDF) ).

Both contain condos + rentals.

The entry and front of 305 W. 52nd:

http://images1.e-net.com/mls/import/Kinnexus/property/full/256403_1005.jpg

http://www.corcoran.com/images/media/BldgPhotos/1016.1.jpg

The entry and front of 300 W. 53rd ...

http://bellmarc.com/pictures/snapshot/large/12230.JPG

http://bellmarc.com/pictures/snapshot/large/12231.JPG

Those are the rancid structures I was referring to. If they contain condos, I guess we're stuck with them forever. What a shame. They look like housing projects.

[Peteynyc1]

The school next door to this building to the West is horrible, much worse than this building. The street deperately needs trees. Hopefully The Link's finished facade and trees they intend to plant will kick start some change to this end of the block. The street to the South (51st) is 100 X nicer, mostly due to the decent amount of trees.

[Stern]

Those are the rancid structures I was referring to. If they contain condos, I guess we're stuck with them forever. What a shame. They look like housing projects.

LondonLawyer Im getting really sick and tired of your glossed over view of New York City. Every building should not be either a Beaux-art gem or a modern gem with rents that match their architecture. These buildings are the backbone of New York City, they are real New York buildings, they embody the blue-collar of the city and they have a character as strong as the people that reside in them. Think Taxi, Seinfeld, think Woody Allen, think countless other NY movies, kids play and neighbors are neighbors. I don’t think you’d understand since you’re a londonlawyer but these buildings embody New York City as much as bagels embody our breakfast. Im proud to say that my parents started out in very similar clean tenements, that I have, and I’m glad that they’ll still be there when I return to NYC, as I don’t yet have the money or the elitist attitude to live elsewhere.

[londonlawyer]

LondonLawyer Im getting really sick and tired of your glossed over view of New York City. Every building should not be either a Beaux-art gem or a modern gem with rents that match their architecture. These buildings are the backbone of New York City, they are real New York buildings, they embody the blue-collar of the city and they have a character as strong as the people that reside in them. Think Taxi, Seinfeld, think Woody Allen, think countless other NY movies, kids play and neighbors are neighbors. I don’t think you’d understand since you’re a londonlawyer but these buildings embody New York City as much as bagels embody our breakfast. Im proud to say that my parents started out in very similar clean tenements, that I have, and I’m glad that they’ll still be there when I return to NYC, as I don’t yet have the money or the elitist attitude to live elsewhere.


Stern,

Nice attitude! I am a New Yorker. Nevertheless, we don't need dumpy buildings in prime areas. Middle class people should move to horrible areas in the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn and breathe new life into them. Such areas, where middle class people don't want to live today, used to be occupied by people like you.

[stache]

Stern,

Nice attitude! I am a New Yorker. Nevertheless, we don't need dumpy buildings in prime areas. Middle class people should move to horrible areas in the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn and breathe new life into them. Such areas, where middle class people don't want to live today, used to be occupied by people like you.

What the forum needs to dump is this prissy broken recording. Can we please get rid of LL?

[londonlawyer]

What the forum needs to dump is this prissy broken recording. Can we please get rid of LL?

Nice attitude. Are you Stern's brother?

New York is one of the world's best cities. Other great cities, like London and Paris, are constanting clearing crap and redeveloping it. If you like crap, move to Cleveland.

[Front_Porch]

This is one middle-class New Yorker (real estate and publishing) who would like to be able to continue to afford to live here . . . survived two years of construction on Hearst already, and now you guys want to take my cheap neighborhood Chinese place away. Can't you architecture police go pick on dumpy buildings uptown, please?

ali r.

[londonlawyer]

This is one middle-class New Yorker (real estate and publishing) who would like to be able to continue to afford to live here . . . survived two years of construction on Hearst already, and now you guys want to take my cheap neighborhood Chinese place away. Can't you architecture police go pick on dumpy buildings uptown, please?

ali r.

Can't middle class NY'ers move to the South Bronx, East New York, Newark and other downtrodden parts of NY and its metro and gentrify those areas? They used to be middle class and should be again. Middle class people don't have a right to live in Manhattan.

[Stern]

Stern,

Nice attitude! I am a New Yorker. Nevertheless, we don't need dumpy buildings in prime areas. Middle class people should move to horrible areas in the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn and breathe new life into them. Such areas, where middle class people don't want to live today, used to be occupied by people like you.

Yes, Manhattan as a whole should be an exclusive club only for the rich. That's what makes NYC great!

Dumpy buildings, speak for yourself. I would rather see old-New York streetscapes with clean tenenements preserved than faceless streets with building like "The Link".

Someone please kill me if I ever become a stuck up snob like LondonLawyer...

Someone else please drop LondonLawyer in the middle of College-Point Queens, I believe his class-discrimination would overcome him in a working middle class neighborhood.


What the forum needs to dump is this prissy broken recording. Can we please get rid of LL?

I can't ban someone because I don't like them, LL is on the top of my list though. Maybe if he realizes this forum is made up of mostly middle-class people he'll just flame elsewhere.

[stache]

Middle class people don't have a right to live in Manhattan.

He's moved into deep troll territory here -

[Stern]

He's moved into deep troll territory here -

Yeah that one really got me. Middleclass people don't have the right? Am I to understand that I'm sub-human because I don't make six figures. And rich people have the right, why, because LondonLawyer discriminates along salary lines?

[londonlawyer]

I am no snob. Furthermore, I would love to buy a 3 bedroom condo in Manhattan, but I can't afford one. I accept it. As an alternative, I am considering buying a condo in Long Island City or in Jersey City.

[lofter1]

I already pointed out that those two specific buildings are condos (with some rental units) --

So you've got homeowners that you want to toss out to build bigger, richer homes to be bought only by richer people?

Sorry -- I don't understand that thinking -- especially when those buildings and others like them are not holding back any new development in that area (as can be seeen by the 5+ projects in the works along that stretch).

IMO 8th AVenue re-done will be far better off with pockets of existing low rise buildings which contain bakeries, chineses restaurants, shoe repair stores & nestands / smoke shops interspersed among the new towers with their banks & Duane Reades at street level.

[stache]

He's clearly off his meds.

[Kris]

Stop the personal attacks.

[macreator]

While some of us may disagree with londonlawyer's point of view, I don't believe he should be banned for expressing it.

[stache]

To me it's more his manner of expression as opposed to his point of view.

[Fabrizio]

Oh my! Those modest elegant little buildings (those in the photo)
on the West Side are where you find the voice teacher, the choreographer, the dresser, the acting coach (in other words, people that you´d actually like to know).

I AM a snob ...and I turn my nose up at the Link.

------------------

[londonlawyer]

Oh my! Those modest elegant little buildings (those in the photo)
on the West Side are where you find the voice teacher, the choreographer, the dresser, the acting coach (in other words, people that you´d actually like to know).

I AM a snob ...and I turn my nose up at the Link.

------------------
Fabrizio,

These buildings are not elegant. They are dumpy. Although 8th Ave. has been neglected for a long time, the real estate thereon is among the most valuable in the world. If these horrible buildings were in South Kensington, on the Avenue Montaigne or even on Newbury Street in Boston, I can assure you that they would be razed immediately. By contrast, the Con Ed buildings on the East River were beauties that should have been preserved. These tenements are just garbage.

http://www.corcoran.com/images/media/BldgPhotos/1016.1.jpg

[lofter1]

But, LondonLawyer, these two buildings are NOT tenements in the common usage of today.

Granted, by definition a "tenement" can be any dwelling structure where the habitation is rented out.

But in NYC a "tenement" more often is applied "to apartment houses occupied by poor families, often overcrowded and in poor condition."

Are these buildings modest? Yes. Unfortunately in our day and age -- where everything is labeled "luxury" -- modesty seems to have gone out of fashion.

There is absolutely no reason to tear down buildings such as these. Let them sell the air rights to maximize the availability of housing in this area.

[londonlawyer]

I was using the term tenement loosely. Nevertheless, they are hideous buildings. As I've noted, I appreciate the English interest in aesthetics. They are constantly tearing down crap that was constructed after the war and looks horrible.

Oddly, something like this should not be torn down, but is in danger of such a fate:
http://graphics7.nytimes.com/images/2004/04/25/realestate/cov.church184.450.jpg

This, by contrast, must go:
http://www.corcoran.com/images/media/BldgPhotos/1016.1.jpg

[Stern]

These tenements are just garbage.

http://www.corcoran.com/images/media/BldgPhotos/1016.1.jpg

They are not garbage they are clean and maintained. They are not Beaux-Art or Ultra-Modern but they are the face of real