Prewar. The very word conjures images of the elegance and grace of an earlier, more refined and less cynical time. When employed to describe buildings, the term is most often used to denote the charming, sophisticated but all-too rare pre-1941 residential structures of Manhattan, many of them sprinkling the storied Upper West Side.
Even more, limited in number are prewar conversions, which offer the aesthetics of their earlier epochs but also incorporate amenities demanded by today’s discerning buyers. The developers of these conversions have updated the layouts, ensuring they remain true to the buildings’ historic essence, while delivering a more open and functional flow.
It’s no surprise UWS prewar conversions like Astor, 378 West End Avenue and the recently unveiled Marlow are increasingly sought by buyers who relish history and tradition as much as the creature comforts of today’s newer ground-up developments.
Redesigning prewars for contemporary lifestyles requires of architects a balancing act of sorts. When designing contemporary luxury residences in prewar buildings, architects must comprehend the “bones” of the buildings. Prewars possess charm, architectural grace, scale and an emphasis on room-making. The result is well-proportioned space imbued with intimacy and character. Architects try to keep what makes each prewar structure special, while re-interpreting the building for modern living, says Julie Nelson, partner at BKSK Architects, the firm responsible for Marlow.
The Astor, 235 West 75th Street
Delivering Gilded Age glamor for a new generation in the heart of the Upper West Side, The Astor is being called one of the most celebrated landmarked condominiums in New York City real estate history. Renowned for its trademark trio of towers on Broadway between 75th and 76th Streets, The Astor represented the epitome of luxury when it debuted around the turn of the century. Recently restored by design firm Pembrooke & Ives, it marries classic architectural style with the most modern of features and finishes.
378 West End Avenue
Positioned on the Upper West Side’s grand residential boulevard, this is a time-honored and intriguing condominium located steps from Riverside Park. COOKFOX handled design both inside and out, while Alchemy Properties developed the property. Among its most arresting features are unobstructed views over landmarked buildings, a generous share of social, fitness and wellness amenities and elegant residences blending prewar space with the abundant natural light and contemporary design of modern buildings.
Marlow, 150 West 82nd Street
Developed by Slate Property Group and BentallGreenOak, designed by BKSK Architects and featuring a model unit decorated by Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, Marlow is a 10-story, 27-residence building with homes that range from studios to four-bedroom penthouse duplexes.
The 1926 building delivers a broad array of sizes and floor plans, and such features as prewar beamed ceilings soaring to nine feet, with Windsor Pinnacle series double-hung windows and walk-in closets throughout.
The kitchens are distinguished by custom white oak cabinetry with lacquered white bronze detailing, a specialty etched glass backsplash and Kohler brushed brass finishes. Prices start in the high $600,000s. Outside, some of the Upper West Side’s most appealing attractions, including Central Park, high-end restaurants, cafes, music venues and landmarks, all are easily accessible to building residents.
“This pre-war conversion building has a completely different appeal opposed to ground-up, new development,” says Shaun Osher, CEO of CORE, the boutique brokerage that is the exclusive sales team for Marlow. CORE launched sales this summer.
“It incorporates the best of both worlds. The Marlow encapsulates history, charm and architectural integrity while boasting sophisticated, modern-day finishes, layouts and amenities buyers are seeking. There is an increased demand for residences that offer exclusivity, outdoor space and the convenience of a condo unit that has the feel of a single-family home, which is exactly what Marlow delivers.”
