By kblum
on December 1, 2010
For all of my clients looking to live in Murray Hill or Kip’s Bay, I recommend Parc East Towers. This is a beautiful building with a marble lobby, two elevators, a 24-hour gym, and a full-time doorman. The units are more than spacious, and some of the views are stunning. I have 4 friends sharing [...]
This Is a fantastic option in Murray Hill, located right across the street from Windsor Court. This full-time doorman building has 33 floors and 300 apartments. And as always, Algin does a fantastic job renovating these apartments once they become available. I’ve seen some of the new kitchens in here and they’re close to condo quality. They’ve recently added a state-of-the-art fitness center and renovated the lobbies and hallways. Many of the units feature balconies, and on the higher floors you can get incredible views. Living here also puts you just a short walk from the 33rd St. subway station and Park Avenue. Although many of you don’t own cars, if you do, some of the apartments have monthly garage fees included. A word of warning to those thinking of sharing these giant Murray Hill apartments, shares are only considered on a case-by-case basis. The same holds true for your dog Skippy. If they do let the little guy in, you can expect to pay a $500 security deposit. There is laundry on site and a valet. All in all, I’d have to say that this is one of those go-to buildings in Murray Hill. If you’re looking for more of a party scene and a pool on the roof, then by all means run across the street and see Blanche at Windsor Court. But if you’re looking for a little quieter scene then Laurence Tower just may be the ticket.
What I like most about this building are the closets, the location and the renovations. T his is one of those classic Murray Hill buildings, located on 34th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues. This 21 floor full-time doorman building is located within two minutes of the 33rd St. subway stop.
The Murray Hill is the prototypical Murray Hill building, lots of space and great prices, but what this building has over its other typical post-war cousins is its location. Located at 115 East 34th Street, this building puts you three blocks from the train. And everyone I talk to in Murray Hill is always saying they want to be west of Third – well, if that’s the case, you have this building along with Windsor Court at 155 East 33rd, the Stonehenge at 141 East 33rd, 22 East 36th and all of those Park Avenue rentals. You will get your oversized one, two and three-bedrooms and they will even let you flex (so grab your college roommate and throw up a wall). Some of these units have fireplaces and they use Sky’s the Limit Concierge services. Call Gus your “Murray Hill Specialist” if you have questions about this or any other building in Murray Hill.
This six story townhouse with an elevator on 36th Street, right around the corner from the Metro Diner, is a reminder that not all Murray Hill rental property resides in cookie-cutter, frat-boy high-rises. This unit, which is also right across the street from a Revolutionary War era horse stable, reflects that special niche of property from 34th to 40th Streets between Lexington and Madison Avenues which is redolent of another era in New York. If you are looking for old world New York charm and the Village is too expensive or just too much, then this stretch of Murray Hill might be the ticket. Many of these units have fireplaces, French doors and exposed brick at really attractive prices. And out back is a townhouse that used to house a famous 1950s model who held court there for 30 years before passing on. It has the feeling of Gloria Swanson traversing down the staircase with a young William Holden twirling his scotch on the rocks and is another of New York’s hidden treasures.
This six story pre-war low rise is located in the corner of Second Avenue and 37th Street and is the perfect space if price and size trump amenities and location for you. These one bedrooms are really well proportioned, and cost about 20% less than their tricked out cousins at The Corinthian or Manhattan Place. They are perfect for the first time home buyer looking to get a toe hold into Manhattan real estate.
By dbaum
on November 2, 2009
This old school Park Avenue condo is what sophisticated living is all about. I have to say there is something about a Park Avenue address that just puts a little bounce in your step. These units feature all of the qualities that discerning New Yorkers have come to expect in their pre-war stock. The nine foot ceilings, crown molding and plaster walls all contribute to the feeling that you are well taken care of. I am constantly amazed by the units as well. These 650 foot alcove studios with bay windows just feel enormous compared to their modern cousins in the neighborhood. In addition, 39th and Park Avenue puts you within minutes of local transportation. You can easily walk to Grand Central, Bryant Park and world class restaurants. If you are looking to rent, renting at 80 Park might cost you a few more dollars in condo/management fees-but may well be worth it in the end for the upgrade in quality and size. If you are interested in this building 20 Park, 41 Park, and 40 Park are great comparisons.
After spending a week at Otis Lake in the Berkshires with my Maine relatives, (think mac and cheese, grill cheese, cheese dip, cheese and crackers and pizza and ice cream) I was ready to hit the gym with King at the NYSC, take up my boxing class again, and get some real food. Well those who know me know I am always on the hunt for lunch under $10 in Murray Hill, and if I can make it healthy all the better. Well the Energy Kitchen at 300 East 41st Street did not disappoint. I went there recently on a hot summer day and had a delicious BBQ chicken quesadilla with brown rice and spinach. They feature that all important high protein, low calorie breakfast with the 5 egg white, feta and tomato wrap along with an assortment of smoothies. All of their salads, sandwiches, wraps and entrees are less than 500 calories. That’s what I am talking about - healthy food that tastes good and is not obnoxious. The real treat was the short walk to a hidden gem-Tudor City gardens on 41st and First Avenue, this lovely hidden spot is a glorious, quiet oasis in the middle of Murray Hill. Grab a smoothie and catch the river breeze coming off the East River while you lounge in this hidden park. This park is just one more reason New York is a constant surprise for even those of us who have made it our home for years.
I have to say it’s easy living in here. There is a brand new health club called Hype where you can finish up your workout and get a relaxing massage. You get on-site parking and a mix of older and newer tenants. Totonno’s pizzeria is downstairs, which Mr. Zagat calls “perhaps the finest pizzeria in New York.” You’ll definitely feel your shoulders relax as you walk past the swaying maples right off of Second Ave.
You can almost see the titans of early American commerce sitting in the library across the street, drinking 100 year old scotch and smoking Cuban cigars. And you surely would have been able to see them if you were in one of these massive apartments overlooking this historic sight. This building is full of the feel and touch of an era that is long gone.
Manhattan Place Condominium is located on a beautiful triangular plaza in the heart of Midtown. Its double height lobby is decked-out with elegant furnishings and a waterfall wall. The full-service building’s luxury amenities include a full-time doorman and concierge, laundry room, playroom, indoor parking garage and an owners lounge equipped with a bar and pantry that residents can reserve for their own private events. Manhattan place offers a rooftop deck with lounge chairs for tenants to enjoy the sun. The views from the rooftop are amazing. You will not be short of friends once they find out that you will have the best views of the Macys 4th of July fireworks.
This is one of my very favorite buildings in the neighborhood. Its not an overwhelming structure, it fits right in. Not too large, or ornate – this is a beautiful, pre-war co-op that offers a tastefully designed lobby, a lovely roof-deck, and the apartments are truly something special. Many have wood-burning fireplaces, beamed ceilings and sunken living rooms. The spaces are over-sized, as pre-war construction always is. The dressing areas and dining areas make the apartments all feel very homey.
This stretch of Park Avenue offers some fantastic pre-war apartments for rent. While the inventory of rentals is similar in size and location-there is a major difference in amenities and renovations. 41 Park and 20 Park Avenue offer top of the line renovations. The kitchens feature marble and glass tile backsplashes with stainless steel appliances. Pedestal sinks and imported marble in the bathrooms, and huge well lit closets make these apartments feel more like a condominium than a rental.
Formerly the 10 Park Avenue Hotel, this pre-war co-op is one of my favorites in the neighborhood. So much character and charm, from the square window panes to the huge lobby with retro décor, there is plenty to like about living here. There is a lot of history in this building - it was built in 1931 and converted to a co-op in 1972. Many of the apartments have sunken living rooms, and open kitchens. The multi-paned windows add to a light and airy quality to the residences.
By dbaum
on March 31, 2009
The Corinthian has certainly put its footprint in Murray Hill since its arrival in 1987.As soon as you walk into this spectacular lobby with a soaring waterfall entrance-you are transported away from the hustle and bustle of New York. 57 floors of inspired architecture, most notable the smooth curves and enormous oval living rooms.
This renovated warehouse located on Madison Avenue and 28th Street features stunning lofts drenched in character and detail. Many of the duplex Penthouses feature three levels in addition to private outdoor space. The owners have spared no expense in the kitchen and bath. Gas ranges, cherry wood, marble counters and European style baths make this the perfect fit for anyone looking for location, character, and size. And ladies, bring all of your shoes-because even Carrie Bradshaw would not run out of space.
If you are the type of person who just can’t let go of your giant couch, multi-season wardrobe, luggage, armoire and entertainment center then check out this post-war Murray Hill winner.
Most of the apartments (except those on the south side of the building below the ninth floor) offer incredible views and tons of light. They have an agreement with the NYSC next door which gives you access to a great health club and swimming pool. There is also a 24 hour doorman, laundry and a third floor sun deck. Open to shares and walls, these units still have very generous living rooms – even after conversion.
Nestled behind the Morgan Library, this Park Avenue building has the redolent feel of old world New York elegance. There is something magical about stepping out your front door in springtime and smelling the fresh flowers from the mall on Park Avenue.
Hidden off of the street by a recessed courtyard, this Murray Hill hidden gem features a huge south facing roof deck, valet services, laundry room and common courtyard. Many of the apartments on the south side of the building face the courtyard - so you get a rarity in Murray Hill - an apartment that is both quiet and bright.
Grab a Medisea sandwich from Lamazou (feta cheese, roasted peppers and pesto) and head over to the tenants only courtyard at Windsor Court. Enjoy your sandwich then head up to the swimming pool.
Walking into the soaring Atrium brings me right back to Waikiki - where are the hula girls? There is something very retro hip about this building.
Many of the units in here feature 20-foot-high ceiling and there are many duplex apartments with southern exposure. Some of the larger units on the ground level even have backyards. The Penthouse makes you feel like you’re living on top of the world - Murray’s Bagels on your private terrace is not a bad deal!
The Archstone Murray Hill is one of the top three choices for affordable luxury in Murray Hill.
While The Anthem on 34th is a littler hipper and The Paramount around the corner is a little plusher - you should definitely put this one on your tour. I love the fact the fact that the pool and health club is on the roof, along with a superbly landscaped roof deck.
As soon as you walk off the sidewalk and hear the babbling brook and smell the freshly landscaped garden- you breathe deeper, relax and feel grateful that this oasis is waiting for you.
The museum quality lobby with soaring 20 foot ceilings and friendly uniformed doorman welcome you as few Manhattan buildings can. Everything about this building says top quality and elegance. The building features high speed elevators, swimming pool, fitness center and a landscaped roof terrace.
After trudging through the endless cookie cutters in Murray Hill- The Anthem was like getting out of the parking lot at Jones Beach and finally seeing the ocean! What a relief. If you’re looking for classic luxury, condo finishes and 11 foot ceilings – this is it.
Here’s the short list about this property – it’s the best roof deck in Murray Hill, interesting floor plans, 8,000 square foot “H” health club, special quiet zones for yoga, 24 hr concierge (never wait for the cable guy again) and complimentary breakfast every morning. Many of the units feature a washer/dryer in the apartment, private terraces and wood-burning fireplaces. If condo finishes and 5 Star services are what you are after- then The Anthem is a must see.
The Wilshire at 207 East 30th Street, is a grand name, but what you really get here are basic apartments that are relatively large, in a prime location, at really good prices.
At Rivergate you get incredible sunrise views from the East side of the building, but they come at the expense of the noise from FDR Drive and the heliport. If you’re heading that way, you may want to opt for an apartment on the west side of the building and get your unobstructed city views, but skip the noise.
I would rate Eastbridge Landing, 377 East 33rd Street, as one of the top three values in Murray Hill for luxury doorman buildings. It’s a great share building - especially in the J, K, and G lines – and has tons of great extras.
The best of the twelve! I just finished up looking at all twelve on-site luxury doorman buildings in Murray Hill proper (36th to 42nd Street) and Plaza East has the best values by far.
At 141 East 33rd Street, you can get a pastrami sandwich at the world famous 2nd Ave. Deli, a Henna Tatoo and Chakras healing from Madame Bovair- all without leaving your block! Who say’s Murray Hill isn’t great?
This is old-style class. They just spent big bucks renovating the lobby and hallways of 20 Park Avenue. And if you love pre-war classic, but want an updated kitchen and hardwood floors (plus lots of closets and living on Park Avenue) - this is a definite looker.
Are you kidding me? -$2,000 one-bedrooms on 38th and Second Ave?
243 East 38th Street is a walk-up, but in the C line, you get a true one-bedroom and an eat-in kitchen. This is the kind of apartment that a struggling actor calls home until they make it big - pre-war and clean.
455 Park Avenue South is a quirky little gem at 30th Street. High ceilings and balconies come in the 01 and 04 lines, while the 02 and 03 lines face Park Avenue South. Plus, I ran into a tenant in the elevator who swears that Zaim is the best super in New York.
One of the things I love about real estate is finding hidden treasures – like The Mango.
First off, I love the name of the building “The Mango” - just saying it puts me in a good mood. Try it - just say “The Mango.” See, don’t you feel better?
Twenty9th Park Madison is a boutique condominium that adds a touch of class to the area. It is an ultra-chic glass tower that projects exclusivity and the apartments are fantastic. They are clearly high-end, yet maintain a very comfortable feel. The floor-to-ceiling windows help by creating bright and warm surrounding. There are also very few apartments per floor (four max – and only on the lower floors), which keeps the feel of the building quite intimate.
Sitting out far on the east side of Manhattan is a hidden gem – Waterside Plaza.
I love the water, so the fact that you can sit out on your piazza and play frisbee or have a real BBQ is pretty cool. Plus, you also get stunning East River views.
Wimbeldon Tower, 236 East 36th Street, is a great building in Murray Hill. This pre-war has studio, one- and two-bedroom units, some of which are actually rather unique. The real bonus here is that you usually get size and price.
The management company refreshes and renovates the units every couple of years – so the apartments are always clean. Inside the apartments, you’ll have A/C, dishwashers, renovated kitchens (either newly renovated stainless steel or white-on-whites) and walk-in closets.
The Charleston can be described as quality done with style. This new development building in Murray Hill has been completed and offers a 24-hour doorman, fitness center, roof deck with dog run, lounge, zen-like garden, and more. The Charleston has a spectacular modern lobby, and residences boasting details such as high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Custom gourmet kitchens feature ebony cabinets, white crystalline marble countertops, sub-zero refrigerators, personal wine coolers, and dishwashers. Modern details are complimented by beautiful hardwood floors, adding inviting warmth to the space.
303 East 33rd Street will be located in the desirable Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan and will provide green–minded buyers the opportunity to live in an environmentally responsible building that will be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. Amenities have been designed to make the space relaxing and inviting in this brand new development. The lobby is staffed with a 24–hour concierge and opens up into a resident media area, billiards room, lounge with wet bar and fireplace, along with a peaceful outdoor garden. The rooftop will feature a sundeck with comfortable seating, a bocce court and outdoor grill. 303 East 33rd takes luxury a step further with a wealth of elegant amenities that are anything but ordinary.
I love 240 East 27th Street. The lobby has been recently updated plus you get big apartments, lots of closets and lots of space for the price. It doesn’t have much in the way of character and charm, but it’s a great value.
For an updated kitchen, you will pay about $300 more, but the basic white on white kitchens are new and clean. Also, if you aren’t sure how long you’ll be sticking around NYC, Equity Residential has property all over the country so if need be, they’ll get you into one of their other buildings.
OK guys here’s the deal: once you get past the oddly displayed “glass menagerie” antique tea set in the lobby, you are looking at some pretty good deals. One-beds from $2400 to $3100, two beds and shares from $3100 to $3800. Most of the units have balconies. The kitchens are white on white and adequate. They were upgrading some of the kitchens with stainless steel kitchens and cherry wood cabinets-you’ll generally pay a couple hundred bucks more a month for the upgrades. One word of caution- the convertible two beds will have one ‘real’ bedroom and one converted with no closet.
By dbaum
on February 4, 2009
Morgan Court doesn’t just look different, it is different. Modeled after a 14th century medieval castle, the building has a distinctive facade, tall iron gates and cobblestone courtyard. Once inside, full white glove service completes the royal treatment.
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