By KATHERINE DYKSTRA
April 10, 2008
HL23, Chelsea
It took seven different zoning requirement modifications for Chelsea's gravity-defying HL23 to get approved by the city. Designed by LA-based Neil M. Denari Architects, the building's 14 stories will rise from a 40-foot-wide footprint beside, and partially under, the High Line - the elevated railway bed slated to become a public park - and then cantilever over the public space. Ranging from 1,849 square feet to combinations over 5,000 square feet, HL23's residences will consist of nine full-floor units, a duplex penthouse and a maisonette with a private garden. The exterior will be constructed from a "pressed-pattern steel skin" designed to accentuate views while maintaining privacy. Painted gypsum-board walls, brushed aluminum detailing, painted metal cladding and glazed partitions will come standard in each apartment. In keeping with the neighborhood's artistic vibe, HL23 will include a 2,422-square-foot gallery. The building is slated to be complete in spring 2009, with plans to achieve LEED eco-friendly status. Prices start at $2.75 million and go up to $11.5 million. Contact: (212) 317-3680.
535 West End Ave.
Up until recently, those with big broods had two options: Find an apartment in a prewar building or knock down a few walls. But now, 535 West End Ave., at 86th Street, is offering 22 full- and half-floor residences with five, six and seven bedrooms. The suburb-sized, 3,753- to 13,825-square-foot homes are being created with public spaces (living rooms, libraries, dining rooms, kitchens) on one side and private spaces (bedrooms) on the other. Kitchens will have cabinets custom-designed by Smallbone of Devizes, La Cornue French ranges and wine coolers. Buyers can choose between three kitchen designs, two bathroom color palettes and eight bathroom layouts. Full-floor residences will have fireplaces, and some master suites will offer private sitting rooms and his-and-her bathrooms and closets. Outside, wrought-iron Juliette balconies will dot the Indiana limestone and brick façade, designed by Lucien Lagrange Architects. Prices start at $8.5 million. Move-ins are planned for fall of 2009. Contact: (212) 873-5353.
15 Union Square West
