The Park Laurel at 15 West 63rd Street is a distinctive 41-story condominium tower completed in 2000, designed by Beyer Blinder Belle and Costas Kondylis for developers Vornado Realty Trust and David Edelstein. The building's most striking feature is its large, stepped pyramidal top that makes it highly visible from Central Park. Built above and adjacent to the historic West Side YMCA, the tower preserves the landmark Romanesque-style façade of the former McBurney School while incorporating it into the modern structure. The light red brick was specifically chosen to harmonize with the neighboring YMCA building, creating an architecturally cohesive streetscape.
The building houses 56 luxury condominium apartments spanning floors 14 through 40, with nearly all units offering sweeping Central Park views. Apartments range from two to four bedrooms, with sizes varying dramatically from 1,309 square feet to over 7,000 square feet for full-floor units. Notable residences include a Charles Gwathmey-designed penthouse duplex with 360-degree views and 20-foot ceilings, and several full-floor apartments featuring expansive terraces overlooking Central Park. Common luxury finishes throughout the building include Calacatta Gold marble bathrooms, premium appliances from Sub-Zero, Miele, and Thermador, herringbone hardwood floors, and individual climate controls.
The development faced significant controversy during its 15-year planning process, with notable opponents including Madonna and other prominent residents who argued the tower would overwhelm the neighborhood. The project ultimately moved forward using inclusionary housing zoning, which allowed additional density in exchange for preserving affordable housing units. This air-rights development not only created the luxury tower but also expanded the historic YMCA facilities.
The Park Laurel offers white-glove service with 24-hour doorman and concierge, a fitness center, children's playroom, and bicycle storage. Its prime location provides immediate access to Central Park, Lincoln Center, and Columbus Circle, making it one of Manhattan's most coveted addresses for those seeking luxury living with unparalleled park views and cultural amenities.
View school info, local attractions, transportation options & more.
Experience amazing 3D aerial maps and fly throughs.