The Powerhouse,
2-17 51st Avenue

Overview of The Powerhouse at 2-17 51st Avenue

The Powerhouse stands as one of Long Island City's most distinctive residential conversions, transforming a 1909 Pennsylvania Railroad Power Station designed by McKim, Mead & White into luxury condominiums. The building's most striking feature comes from its industrial heritage: four massive 275 foot smokestacks were chopped off during the 2008 conversion, with their cylindrical bases ingeniously transformed into unique circular living rooms measuring 17 feet in diameter. Architect Karl Fischer and interior designer Andres Escobar masterfully preserved the red brick structure's character while adding four setback stories, creating 177 apartments including 16 duplexes.

The apartments showcase a blend of industrial charm and modern luxury, with many featuring 20 foot high ceilings, dramatic arched windows, and American walnut floors throughout. The signature circular living rooms, carved from the former smokestack bases, create truly one of a kind spaces, with some units offering substantial terraces up to 590 square feet. Standard finishes include quartzite countertops with wenge wood breakfast bars, Viking appliances, and rain showers with double sinks. Units range from flexible studios to three bedroom layouts, with the larger apartments featuring open kitchens with islands and expansive living areas up to 26 feet long.

The building's amenity package rivals Manhattan luxury developments, headlined by the Aqua Grotto spa featuring a whirlpool with waterfall, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room. Additional offerings include a state of the art fitness center, rooftop terrace with stunning Manhattan skyline views and BBQ facilities, residents' lounge with pool table and wet bar, screening room, children's playroom, and 24 hour concierge service. The location proves equally compelling, situated directly across from Gantry Plaza State Park with the East River Ferry landing steps away, and just one subway stop from Grand Central Station on the 7 train, making it one of only two waterfront condominium developments in Long Island City.