Historic NYC Buildings Get a Second Life With Contemporary Design

October 15, 20244 min read

The Astor | Christian Harder

New York City, a hub of iconic architecture, is home to many historic buildings that have been thoughtfully updated with modern amenities and designs. These renovations blend the best of both worlds—preserving historic charm while offering contemporary conveniences and modern interiors. Below are some of NYC’s standout buildings that exemplify this trend.

222 LES Tower + Lofts

Nestled on the vibrant Lower East Side, 222 LES Tower + Lofts is home to a newly developed 28-story luxury tower, which connects to the redefined 11-story landmarked Bialystoker loft building. In all, the upscale development features 70 sun-drenched residences. Designed by SLCE Architects and S4 Architecture, the new tower’s facade perfectly complements the neighborhood’s historic legacy, while the building’s interior pays homage to pre-war elegance with a renewed art deco aesthetic, including white oak herringbone floors and fluted glass cabinetry. Residents enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the East River and Brooklyn/Manhattan skylines. High-end finishes such as Italian cabinetry, modern chef’s kitchens, and tile-clad bathrooms offer luxurious living spaces. Interior and exterior amenities of 222 LES Tower + Lofts, spanning 14,000 square feet, include coworking lounges, a world-class fitness center, a 6,700-square-foot park, a 35-foot indoor pool, and additional storage. For inquiries, visit www.222les.nyc.

222 LES Tower + Lofts | Binyan Studios

720 West End Avenue

Currently being redesigned inside and out, 720 West End Avenue will offer 131 premier residences on the Upper West Side. Amid the current renovations process, this iconic condo is undergoing a transformation from 19th century designs to contemporary residential layouts. With iconic designer Thomas Juul-Hansen leading the building’s interior curations and BP Architects restoring the Renaissance Revival-style facade, this development pays tribute to the Emery Roth-designed pre-war-era building while incorporating modern amenities. This 17-story building will comprise units ranging from one to five bedrooms and a collection of townhouse duplexes and simplex and duplex penthouses with private terraces. Residences will feature Boffi kitchens, white oak vanities, Waterworks fixtures, and sweeping views of the Hudson River, Riverside Park, and cityscape. Residents also benefit from 30,000 square feet of amenities such as a gaming lounge, sports courts, a well-equipped fitness center, and a bar, creating a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. To inquire about availability, visit 720westend.com.

720 West End Avenue | Courtesy of VMI Studio

The Astor

Centrally located in the heart of the Upper West Side, The Astor was originally constructed in 1901 by the Clinton and Russell architecture firm. Once standing as a pre-war era development, The Astor has since been renewed with contemporary interiors and amenities that are suitable for modern-day homeowners. This 12-story building offers 98 units, including three new penthouses built atop the historic towers, all showcasing immaculate NYC vistas. Inside, you’ll observe a mix of pre-war elegance and contemporary luxury with herringbone-patterned floors, high ceilings with crown molding, wood-burning fireplaces, double-pane bay windows, and modern, high-end appliances. Building amenities include a 24-hour concierge, a children’s playroom, and bike parking. For more information or to schedule a viewing, visit www.theastor.com.

The Astor | Christian Harder

Mandarin Oriental Residences, Fifth Avenue

Situated at 685 Fifth Avenue, Mandarin Oriental Residences was originally built in 1926, first housing the Dorothy Gray Cosmetics Company and later serving as the Gucci headquarters. After modern design transformations, Mandarin Oriental Residences now spans 29 stories and offers 65 fully furnished residences designed by SHVO. These luxurious turnkey homes feature Frette bed linens, Molteni kitchens, and chevron oak floors, complemented by champagne fixtures and Beaux Arts details. Residents also enjoy unparalleled views of the NYC skyline. Amenities include a rooftop pool, a lounge, exclusive dining experiences curated by renowned chef Daniel Boulud, and spa services, delivering a five-star living experience. To learn more, visit mo-residencesfifthavenue.com.