Artimus Development has been actively involved in the restoration of Harlem's St. Thomas the Apostle Church and its nearby school building, but the surrounding area was not abandoned. A 13-floor residential building was planned for 251 West 117th Street, the empty lot behind the church, to breathe new life into the once-diminished neighborhood. As the concrete facade nears completion, an affordable lottery has just launched for 32 units.
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Lottery criteria via Housing Connect (https://a806-housingconnect.nyc.gov/nyclottery/AdvertisementPdf/896.pdf)
Individuals and households earning 130 percent of the area median income ($80,812-$149,890/year) are eligible to apply for studios for $2,357/month, one-bedrooms for $2,526/month, and two-bedrooms for $3,044/month. According to CityRealty listings, these prices are actually above the Harlem median rent of $1,696/month for studios, $2,158/month for one-bedrooms, and $2,650/month for two-bedrooms. But for those who feel so inclined to apply, the deadline is January 31, 2020. Further information and criteria can be found here.
Drawing of 251 West 117th Street (Credit: GKV Architects)
All photography of 251 West 117th Street circa November 2019 via CityRealty
Facade details
Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel Architects designed the mid-rise building with oversized windows and pre-cast concrete facade and a November visit to the project site shows the finishing touches are being applied to its tough-luxe exterior. Residents will be able to enjoy amenities such as a virtual doorman, lounge, children's playroom, fitness center, card-operated laundry room, and bike room.
The building also features a common courtyard and roof deck, but residents can easily walk to Morningside Park and Central Park a few blocks away. The West Harlem area is teeming with popular local restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment options. The 116th Street 2/3/B/C trains are also within close walking distance.
The building also features a common courtyard and roof deck, but residents can easily walk to Morningside Park and Central Park a few blocks away. The West Harlem area is teeming with popular local restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment options. The 116th Street 2/3/B/C trains are also within close walking distance.
Expanded Harlem Hebrew Language Academy (Credit: Konstantin Rozumny for BL Companies)
While the construction of the residential building was underway, the 107-year-old church has been transformed into a performance venue and community facility that preserves its noteworthy facade and interiors. The nearby building on St. Nicholas Avenue is occupied by Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School wich was recently renovated and expanded onto a corner lot at 147 St. Nicholas Avenue.
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