Limestone rising at 255 East 77th Street in May 2025 (CityRealty)
Fifteen years ago, it looked as though the Manhattan skyline was on the verge of being overwhelmed by glass and metal towers, austere monuments to Modernism that often lacked the warmth and character of the city's historic architecture. However, recent developments suggest a resurgence of traditional design principles in both public and private construction.
In January 2025, President Donald Trump reinstated the controversial "Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture" executive order, originally issued in 2020. This directive mandates that federal buildings adopt classical architectural styles, such as Neoclassicism, emphasizing designs that are "visually identifiable as civic buildings" and that "respect regional, traditional, and classical architectural heritage."
In January 2025, President Donald Trump reinstated the controversial "Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture" executive order, originally issued in 2020. This directive mandates that federal buildings adopt classical architectural styles, such as Neoclassicism, emphasizing designs that are "visually identifiable as civic buildings" and that "respect regional, traditional, and classical architectural heritage."
Further asserting federal influence over state and local projects, the Trump administration took control of the $7 billion renovation of New York City's Penn Station in April 2025. The Department of Transportation, citing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) history of inefficiency, transferred leadership of the project to Amtrak. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy stated that this move aims to "deliver a world-class Penn Station" and "save taxpayers approximately $120 million."
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In light of the Trump's administration's misguided mandate to force classically styled structures, one of the countless visions for redeveloping Penn Station / Madison Square Garden, comes from ReThinkNYC, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring the original Neoclassical-styled Pennsylvania Station. The group has proposed three reinterpretations of McKim, Mead & White’s 1910 masterpiece, designed in collaboration with classical architect Richard Cameron. These include a full reconstruction and two alternatives that incorporate or work around existing structures like Madison Square Garden and Two Penn Plaza.
Over the past decade, the residential sector has seen a shift towards more traditional and contextual design. Developments like 220 Central Park South and 15 Central Park West, both designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, have topped the high-end apartment sales market over the past decade. More recent projects, including The Cortland, 520 Fifth Avenue, and Claremont Hall, continue this trend, offering traditional aesthetics combined with modern bells and whistles, giving them the secret sauce in a competitive market.
The return to tradition appears to be partly nostalgia and as a reaction to the glass-box uniformity that has transformed swaths of the city since the 2000s. Developers are taking note, especially in neighborhoods like the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, and Greenwich Village, where luxury buyers gravitate toward architecture that feels grounded and enduring. The wave appears to be growing. Among the slew of upcoming pre-war inspired developments are 200 West 88th Street, 38 Gramercy Park East, and 175 East 82nd Street.
Inside, the homes combine the best of both worlds. They offer soaring ceilings, generous layouts, and a revival of formal and separated spaces, a feature that have taken on new importance in the wake of the pandemic. Yet they’re also equipped with modern finishes, high-tech smart home and HVAC systems, and a private club worth of amenities that ushers in the best of prewar charm into the 21st century.
Below, we showcase several forthcoming and newly finished residential developments that reflect this modern classicism, and the rare listings still available within them.
Launching Soon
Design by Issac & Stern Architects
18 stories | 36 units
Three- to five-beds launching 2H 2025
The design of a new condo underway on the Upper West Side at 200 West 88th Street | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/broadway-corridor/200-west-88th-street/107725
Nortco Development has started construction on a ground-up high-end condominium at 200 West 88th Street. Earlier this spring, the team announced they acquired a $170 million construction loan arranged by Northwind Group and BHI. Located at the former site of the Mermaid Inn seafood restaurant (which has since reopened a short distance away), the project will rise 18 stories and include 37 three-to-five-bedroom condominium residences, and private outdoor space. The building will also feature ground-floor retail, a second-floor parking garage, and a full suite of amenities designed to meet the growing demand for large-format, full-service homes on the Upper West Side.
Designed by Issac & Stern Architects, the 215-foot tower will bring approximately 140,000 square feet of residential and commercial space to a site Nortco quietly assembled in 2018 for $46 million. The development replaces four adjacent properties on Amsterdam Avenue between 87th and 88th Streets and is one of the few new condo projects planned for this section of the Upper West Side. Sales are expected to launch later this year, and hard-hat tours will follow soon after.
Designed by Issac & Stern Architects, the 215-foot tower will bring approximately 140,000 square feet of residential and commercial space to a site Nortco quietly assembled in 2018 for $46 million. The development replaces four adjacent properties on Amsterdam Avenue between 87th and 88th Streets and is one of the few new condo projects planned for this section of the Upper West Side. Sales are expected to launch later this year, and hard-hat tours will follow soon after.
Design by CetraRuddy Architects
Developed by Douglaston Development
39 stories | 125 units
Sales launch anticipated late 2025
At the beginning of March 2024, Douglaston Development filed permits for a new tower on a block-long site up the street from 200 East 83rd Street set to include such amenities as a pool, yoga studio, and bike room. Crain's New York Business notes that the block-long site is currently home to a 90-unit rental building with some rent-regulated tenants; under the plan provided, the developer would build the new tower on the vacant south side of the site but retain the north side, which is home to the rent-regulated tenants. Demolition work on the south half began in spring 2024.
Design by Roman & William Architects
Developed by Legion Investment Group and Gindi Capital
20 stories | 57 units
Anticipated launch in 2026
Legion Investment Group has begun work to bring a new 61-unit residential building to eastern end of Gramercy Park, following the success of their nearby condo at 109 East 79th Street. According to Crain's, the project will offer a mix of studio to three-bedroom apartments, along with amenities like a fitness center, children’s playroom, and outdoor space. Another perk will more than likely be keys to Gramercy Park.
A conceptual design leaked earlier this year shows an elegant buff brick and limestone tower that steps higher towards Third Avenue and culminates with a distinctive pyramidal crown. Other details include a rusticated stone base, multi-pane windows (some arched) and interesting setbacks and asymmetries that should make the building a wonderful and slightly whimsical addition to the prestigious area.
Demolition at the site as of May 2025
Design by Zproekt Architecture | Developer: RYBAK Development
10 stories | 9 units
Delivery estimated in 2027
On the heels of its successes with Upper East Side project like 126 East 86th Street and Manor 82, Rybak Development turns its attention to a new 10-story building on the corner of East 81st Street and York Avenue. Renderings of the planned project show that it draws inspiration from its prewar neighbors with features like a pale limestone facade, arched windows at the ground level, multiple cornices, and both decorative and Juliet balconies throughout. Construction is still in early stages.
Under Construction and Now Selling
Design by Kohn Pedersen Fox
88 stories | 100 units
3 three-beds from $5.95M - $11.75M
At over 1,000 feet high, 520 Fifth Avenue is one of the tallest residential buildings in its neighborhood. However, the design by Kohn Pedersen Fox was inspired by early twentieth-century architect Hugh Ferriss and the grandeur of nearby Beaux-Arts landmarks like Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library flagship building. It is distinguished in the skyline by its gracefully tiered silhouette, glazed terra cotta facade, and magnificent 10' x 10' windows throughout.
The apartments are located on the uppermost 40 stories to make the most of breathtaking skyline and river views, and all feature interiors by AD100 designer Vicky Charles. The pinnacle of the building is occupied by a residents' amenity package that includes a lounge, dining room, game room, and library with Empire State Building views. Moreover, residents will receive two memberships to Moss, a members' club in the base of the building with wellness, dining, and social offerings. The building is over 90% sold, and move-ins are expected to begin later this year.
The apartments are located on the uppermost 40 stories to make the most of breathtaking skyline and river views, and all feature interiors by AD100 designer Vicky Charles. The pinnacle of the building is occupied by a residents' amenity package that includes a lounge, dining room, game room, and library with Empire State Building views. Moreover, residents will receive two memberships to Moss, a members' club in the base of the building with wellness, dining, and social offerings. The building is over 90% sold, and move-ins are expected to begin later this year.
520 Fifth Avenue, #PH79 (Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
36 stories | 62 units
9 three- to seven-beds from $5.3M - $24.7M
A new Upper East Side has topped out at 255 East 77th Street, a limestone-clad tower designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and developed by Naftali Group. With no more than four homes per floor, and full-floor penthouses topping the tower, each residence offers grand proportions, soaring ceilings, and exquisite finishes, including Calacatta marble kitchens and spa-like baths. Residents will enjoy a full suite of amenities by Yabu Pushelberg, including a 75-foot indoor pool, wellness spa, sports simulator, recording studio, and even an automated private parking garage tucked behind a discreet porte-cochère.
255 East 77th Street, #3C (Compass)
Design by Beyer Blinder Belle Architects
Developer: EJS Group
18 stories | 36 units
Six three- to five-beds from $5.15M - $17.5M
Rising 18 stories on the Upper East Side, 200 East 75th Street is a modern take on classic uptown elegance. Designed by Beyer Blinder Belle with interiors by AD100 firm Yellow House Architects, the building features a refined mix of limestone, granite, and terracotta paired with oversized windows. The two- to six-bedroom residences emphasize warmth and timeless detail, while five full-floor penthouses crown the building with expansive terraces and views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
200 East 75th Street, #4B (Compass)
Design by COOKFOX Architects Architects
Developed by Naftali Group
19 stories | 69 units
Seven one- to three-beds from $1.3M - $4.6M
An elegant take on Gramercy living, The Willow blends timeless architecture with forward-thinking design, offering 69 one- to four-bedroom residences in one of Manhattan’s most coveted neighborhoods. Located just two blocks northeast of Gramercy Park, the 19-story by COOKFOX Architects pays tribute to the area’s historic charm with a red brick façade, arched bays, and asymmetrical setbacks that create expansive terraces for upper-floor homes.
All residences feature floor-to-ceiling divided-light windows, wide-plank white oak floors, serene color palettes, and exquisite finishes throughout. Kitchens are outfitted with honed quartz countertops, custom millwork cabinetry, and integrated Miele appliances, while primary bathrooms include radiant heated floors, Waterworks fixtures, and Iced Grey stone-slab counters. Near the building’s apex, five full- and half-floor penthouses boast sweeping views of the Chrysler Building, East River, and Manhattan skyline.
All residences feature floor-to-ceiling divided-light windows, wide-plank white oak floors, serene color palettes, and exquisite finishes throughout. Kitchens are outfitted with honed quartz countertops, custom millwork cabinetry, and integrated Miele appliances, while primary bathrooms include radiant heated floors, Waterworks fixtures, and Iced Grey stone-slab counters. Near the building’s apex, five full- and half-floor penthouses boast sweeping views of the Chrysler Building, East River, and Manhattan skyline.
The Willow, #14B (Compass)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
18 stories | 14 units
1 three-bed for $13.5M
Sixteen Fifth Avenue brings just 14 full-floor and penthouse residences by Robert A.M. Stern Architects. Behind a warm brick façade with recessed casement windows, each home offers direct elevator entry, oversized rooms, and rich interiors featuring herringbone white oak flooring and Christopher Peacock kitchens with Calacatta Gold marble and Miele appliances. Amenities include a golf simulator, a tranquility lounge, and a beautifully designed atrium lounge with a bar and private wine and spirits storage—all just moments from Washington Square Park and NYC’s cultural and culinary treasures.
Sixteen Fifth Avenue (June 2025 | CityRealty)
Sixteen Fifth Avenue, #6
$13,500,000
Greenwich Village | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 3,727 ft2
Sixteen Fifth Avenue, #6 (Corcoran Group)
211 West 84th Street
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
18 stories | 45 units
10 four- to six-beds from $6.55M - $28.75M
On the Upper West Side, new development condominium The Henry's design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects pays respectful tribute to classic Upper West Side architecture with its masonry facade, rusticated limestone base, hand-set brick facade, and setbacks that allow for private terraces in many units. The 45 units include half-floor, full-floor, townhouse, and penthouse residences.
Residents of The Henry arrive to a 24-hour attended lobby with access to a private porte-cochere. Amenities include a fitness center, a two-lane bowling alley, a half-basketball court, a pickleball court, a spa with steam room and sauna, and a dedicated club floor with salon, billiards lounge, and private dining room with catering kitchen. Outdoor amenities include a garden off the lounge and library and a rooftop terrace with outdoor kitchen and bocce ball court. Sales launched in fall 2024, and completion is estimated for early 2026.
Residents of The Henry arrive to a 24-hour attended lobby with access to a private porte-cochere. Amenities include a fitness center, a two-lane bowling alley, a half-basketball court, a pickleball court, a spa with steam room and sauna, and a dedicated club floor with salon, billiards lounge, and private dining room with catering kitchen. Outdoor amenities include a garden off the lounge and library and a rooftop terrace with outdoor kitchen and bocce ball court. Sales launched in fall 2024, and completion is estimated for early 2026.
The Henry, #PHW (Compass)
Design by Morris Adjmi Architects
7 stories | 15 units
4 one- to three-beds from $3.23M - $11.75M
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181 MacDougal Street is a beautifully designed 16-residence condo by Morris Adjmi Architects that blends right into the charm of Greenwich Village, complete with a clever dual-facade that gives the feel of two historic buildings. Inside, the one- to three-bedroom homes feature high ceilings, wide-plank oak floors, oversized windows, and luxe kitchens with Gaggenau appliances. Just one block from Washington Square Park, the building offers a 24-hour doorman, fitness center, library lounge, and a pet spa, with occupancy expected later this year.
181 MacDougal Street, #PH
$11,750,000
Greenwich Village | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,311 ft2
181 MacDougal Street, #PH (Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group)
Completed and in Resales
100 Claremont Avenue
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
41 stories | 165 units
15 one- to three-beds from $1.25M - $5.15M
Claremont Hall is located in the heart of the Union Theological Seminary, and took shape with the help of development rights from surrounding buildings (the sale of which financed Union Theological Seminary campus improvements). The design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects features classical influences that complement the surrounding architecture, and the seminary's former dining hall was transformed into an indoor pool with Gothic ceilings and original chandeliers and ceiling beams.
The apartments start on top of the classrooms, academic offices, and faculty housing in the tower to make the most of views of Riverside Park and the Hudson River. In addition to the pool, amenities include a fitness center, a library, a music practice room, a dining room, and a lounge. A penthouse in the building set a new sales record for Morningside Heights in January 2024.
The apartments start on top of the classrooms, academic offices, and faculty housing in the tower to make the most of views of Riverside Park and the Hudson River. In addition to the pool, amenities include a fitness center, a library, a music practice room, a dining room, and a lounge. A penthouse in the building set a new sales record for Morningside Heights in January 2024.
Claremont Hall, #33C
$4,025,000
Morningside Heights | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,663 ft2
Claremont Hall, #33C (Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
35 stories | 86 units
3 one- to three-beds from $3.2M - $8.5M
The soaring 200 East 83rd Street took shape on a Yorkville block that was previously dominated by low-rise residential buildings, and makes its mark on the local skyline and streetscape with its striking silhouette, limestone facade, and large-scale arched windows on the uppermost levels. All units feature interiors by Rottet Studios, and amenities include a sophisticated attended lobby, a fitness center and yoga studio, a 70-foot indoor pool with double-height vaulted ceilings and loggia access, a wood and leather-paneled library, a Winter Garden with a double-height loggia and terrace access, and a vaulted porte-cochere with automated parking and a private courtyard.
200 East 83rd Street, #24C (Compass)
301 East 81st Street
Design by SLCE Architects
21 stories | 32 units
No public availabilities
Beckford House via Noe & Associates (Compass)
Beckford House and Tower have redefined their Yorkville block with two complementary limestone and brick buildings by Studio Sofield, paying homage to the grandeur of prewar Upper East Side architecture. Both buildings feature graciously proportioned residences with exquisite detailing throughout. Beckford House offers refined amenities including a stately lobby, a reception room with a fireplace and wet bar, a well-appointed fitness center, and a rooftop terrace with multiple seating areas. Beckford Tower expands on this with its own fitness center, basketball half-court, 65-foot indoor pool, hot tub, piano bar and lounge, and a game room.
30 Park Place
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
82 stories | 157 units
12 one- to four-beds from $2.6M - $20M
This opulent, limestone-clad downtown building houses private residences on top of a Four Seasons Hotel, and residents have access to all the hotel's amenities and services.
The Four Seasons Private Residences, #60B
$5,495,000
Tribeca | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,213 ft2
The Four Seasons Private Residences, #60B (Vesna Realty)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
54 stories | 34 units
5 three- to four-beds from $16M - $36.5M
520 Park Avenue (Compass)
520 Park Avenue has taken the Upper East Side to new heights, but its limestone facade and attractive roofline pay tribute to the surrounding prewar architecture. The full-floor homes feature gorgeous select-cut white oak floors, soaring 11' ceilings with crown molding, key-locked elevator access, charming bay windows, quadruple exposure, and an in-unit washer/dryer.
520 Park Avenue, #PH58
$36,500,000
Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 4,322 ft2
520 Park Avenue, #PH58 (Compass)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
20 stories | 15 units
1 four-bed for $6.35M
All images of 1228 Madison Avenue via Robert A.M. Stern Architects
Half a block from New York City icons like Central Park and the Guggenheim, 1228 Madison Avenue pays tribute to classic architecture details with a stone curtain wall, traditional windows, tiered setbacks, and a dignified crown. The massive full-floor units boast quadruple exposures, 40' corner great rooms, separate eat-in kitchens with high-end appliances and fixtures, and luxurious bedroom suites with walk-in closets.
1228 Madison Avenue, #3 (Corcoran Group)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
70 stories | 117 units
3 two- to four-beds from $13.5M - $39M
All images of 220 Central Park South via Vornado Realty Trust
The sheer height of 220 Central Park South puts it in reach of the supertalls that have recently risen along Billionaires' Row, yet its limestone facade, setback terraces, and ornamental metalwork nod to the architecture of yesteryear. Its units boast grand living spaces, soaring ceilings, state-of-the-art kitchen, luxurious bedroom suites, and unobstructed views of Central Park.
220 Central Park South, #32A
$39,000,000
Midtown West | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 3,703 ft2
220 Central Park South, #32A (Corcoran Group)
Design by Studio Sofield
19 stories | 31 units
1 four-bed for $10.5M
135 East 79th Street
135 East 79th Street is distinguished by its hand-laid limestone facade, arched entrance, and ornate double-height lobby. It is just steps from Central Park. Interiors feature 10' ceilings, living room and dining room with pocket door and walls of windows, Christopher Peacock kitchens, and peaceful bedrooms,
135 East 79th Street, #8E
$10,500,000
Carnegie Hill | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 3,057 ft2
135 East 79th Street, #8E (Compass)
Design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects
43 stories | 202 units
5 two- to four-beds from $11M - $27.5M
15 Central Park West via Robert A.M. Stern Architects
Between its two buildings and limestone facade, the condominium at 15 Central Park West has much in common with its landmarked forebears further north. Interiors also nod to the halcyon days of architecture with high ceilings, grand proportions, and intricately detailed walls and ceilings.
15 Central Park West, #27D
$22,800,000 (-8.8%)
Central Park West | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 3,173 ft2
15 Central Park West, #27D (Corcoran Group)
Design by Morris Adjmi Architects
9 stories | 4 units
No public availabilities
All images of 408 Greenwich Street via Sotheby's International Realty
408 Greenwich Street is located in the Tribeca North Historic District, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission described this design by Morris Adjmi Architects as "a terrific modern application to the scale and character of the neighborhood." Features like arched windows, loft-like living space, tray ceilings, and elegant hardwood floors further add to its prewar-inspired appeal; however, state-of-the-art security, top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, and grand bedrooms were designer to appeal to contemporary buyers' needs and wishes.
Design by Peter Pennoyer Architects
16 stories | 14 units
No public availabilities
151 East 78th Street via
Located between Lexington and Third Avenues, the new condominium at 151 East 78th Street is outside a historic district, yet brings a touch of prewar-inspired elegance inspired by its prewar counterparts on Park and Fifth Avenues. The red brick and limestone tower houses 14 units featuring grand entrance galleries, soaring ceilings, Smallbone of Devizes kitchens, and spa-like baths with radiant heated floors. Amenities include a gym, yoga studio, library, and garden.
Design by Peter Pennoyer Architects
19 stories | 15 units
No public availabilities
The Benson (Peter Pennoyer Architects)
The Benson was the first new condominium to take shape on the Upper East Side's Madison Avenue in over 20 years, and its design and limestone facade were inspired by the prewar cooperatives surrounding it. All units feature oversized windows, soaring ceilings, custom crown moldings, fireplaces with custom mantles, custom kitchens by Christopher Peacock, and primary suites that occupy their own wing.
The building offers 24-hour doorman and concierge service as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center; half basketball court; spa with sauna and steam room; library with adjoining garden; art studio; pet spa with washing station; private cinema room; and landscaped roof lounge with fire pit and Central Park views. The building sold out quickly and developer Miki Naftali showed his confidence in the building by buying a penthouse there.
The building offers 24-hour doorman and concierge service as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center; half basketball court; spa with sauna and steam room; library with adjoining garden; art studio; pet spa with washing station; private cinema room; and landscaped roof lounge with fire pit and Central Park views. The building sold out quickly and developer Miki Naftali showed his confidence in the building by buying a penthouse there.
Honorable Mentions
64 University Place | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/greenwich-village/64-university-place/185051
Freeman Residences | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/lower-east-side/freeman-residences-4-freeman-alley/186133
La Maison Colette | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/greenwich-village/la-maison-colette-815-broadway/8291
The Kent | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/yorkville/the-kent-200-east-95th-street/64579
535 West End Avenue | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/riverside-dr-west-end-ave/535-west-end-avenue/6164
250 West 81st Street | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/riverside-dr-west-end-ave/two-fifty-west-81st-250-west-81st-street/68934
The Harrison | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/broadway-corridor/the-harrison-205-west-76th-street/39881
The Park Laurel | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/central-park-west/the-park-laurel-15-west-63rd-street/8505
The Bellemont | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/carnegie-hill/the-bellemont-1165-madison-avenue/181536
The Brompton | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/yorkville/the-brompton-205-east-85th-street/39002
1010 Park Avenue | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/carnegie-hill/1010-park-avenue/84771
27 East 79th Street | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/carnegie-hill/27-east-79th-street/85358
150 East 78th Street | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/lenox-hill/150-east-78th-street/101891
The Giorgio Armani Residences | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/park-fifth-ave-79th-st/the-giorgio-armani-residences-760-madison-avenue/173391
The Chatham | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/lenox-hill/the-chatham-181-east-65th-street/593
515 Park Avenue | https://www.cityrealty.com/nyc/park-fifth-ave-79th-st/515-park-avenue/3306
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
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