Amidst discussions of commercial-to-residential conversions, see authentic New York City lofts in coveted neighborhoods

Monday, Jan 30, 2023 By CityRealty Staff, CityRealty contributor

Shortly after New York City offices closed at the height of lockdown, rumblings began about turning the empty space into much-needed housing. However, this is not as easy as bystanders make it sound. Mayor Adams is well aware of the city’s zoning challenges, and has thus recommended a rezoning for Midtown that would allow for greater residential use. His plans for addressing the housing crisis also include easing the way of converting office buildings to residential.

But even if the rezoning goes through, the fact remains that many offices are ill equipped to meet the city’s residential requirements. Traditional floor plates make it hard for natural light to reach the rear of the office building; not only does this look aesthetically unappealing and mean extra work for the developers and builders, but building codes require residential units to have windows in the living rooms and bedrooms. Moreover, with utilities like plumbing and HVAC being centralized in office buildings, significant work is required to bring them into each new unit.

As daunting as all that sounds, it is not impossible for empty commercial spaces to get turned into housing. After companies abandoned the Financial District following the 9/11 attacks, their buildings were converted to residential use with appealing architecture and an abundance of amenities. Decades earlier, artists’ adaptations of former industrial and commercial buildings into live/work space were instrumental in the transformations of Soho, Tribeca, and other downtown neighborhoods from abandoned wastelands to some of the most coveted neighborhoods in Manhattan.

Many listings for new construction apartments with open layouts and high ceilings tout “loft-like interiors,” but the following listings are the real deal. Not only are they situated in formerly industrial buildings, but they are rich in architectural details like exposed brick, original ceiling beams, joists, and columns. They truly don't make them like they used to, and listings such as these are becoming increasingly rare.

Sweeney Building, #5H
$1,695,000

DUMBO | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 2 Baths | 1,230 ft²

Sweeney Building, #5H (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Loft living in the heart of vibrant DUMBO with a spectacular view of the Manhattan Bridge! This sun-drenched apartment has oversized loft windows and 11+ foot ceilings, creating an airy living, dining and kitchen area. The updated open kitchen is complete with Sub-Zero refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, water filtration system, and newly polished granite countertops. The primary bedroom and bathroom have gracious proportions, and an additional home office or nursery sits across from a second bathroom with shower stall. See floor plan and full details here.

718 Broadway, #5B
$1,800,000

NoHo | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 1,400 ft²

718 Broadway, #5B (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: The moment you enter through the foyer of this sprawling, sun-filled space, you are struck by its wall of oversized windows offering eastern and southern exposures. This spacious, approximately 1400 square foot loft boasts 11' 6" ceilings, treetop views, and faces out over Lafayette Street. The gorgeous chef's kitchen opens seamlessly into the Great Room to make entertaining a pleasure. The kitchen features a breakfast bar, black granite countertops, as well as top-of-line stainless appliances -- including a Wolf range. The generously-sized bathroom is outfitted with a large, walk-in shower. The loft features majestic columns that serve to perfectly delineate the open floor plan. See floor plan and full details here.

258 Broadway, #5E
$1,850,000

Tribeca | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

258 Broadway, #5E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Available for the first time in 40 years, this true Tribeca loft is just waiting for you to make it your own special home! This spacious residence boasts high ceilings just under 11 feet tall. Currently configured as a two-bedroom with a sizable separate home office and enormous living and dining room, this flexible space could assume many different layouts to meet individual needs. With a wall of eight windows in the living room and second bedroom facing north (and two windows with west exposure from the primary bedroom), this apartment enjoys extreme quiet and a view of the city as well. The big open kitchen has plenty of countertops and storage, a dishwasher and large pantry closet, and there are currently one and a half bathrooms and five additional closets throughout the apartment. A private storage cage in the basement conveys with the sale. See floor plan and full details here.

133 Mulberry Street, #5A
$2,250,000

NoLiTa/Little Italy | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,544 ft²

133 Mulberry Street, #5A (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome home to this recently converted 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo loft featuring luxury designer finishes and original 19th-century details! The home opens into an airy open-concept living room with soaring 11-foot ceilings and bright, oversized sash windows that let in an abundance of eastern light. The pristine wide-plank oak floors contrast the untouched cast iron columns to create a quiet peaceful space perched above the heart of Little Italy. The chef's kitchen begins with a vast Caesarstone peninsula that compliments the custom walnut cabinetry and designer Hansgrohe fixtures, and comes complete suite of luxurious Wolf and Bosch appliances. The primary bedroom is as spacious as the living room and boasts a deep walk-in closet with an additional reach-in closet, original sash windows, and a spa-like en-suite bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.

The Silk Building, #823
$2,395,000

NoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

The Silk Building, #823 (Compass)

From the Listing: No detail has been overlooked in this sophisticated renovation by award-winning RAAD Studio Architects; from the solid walnut flooring and custom millwork throughout to the savvy hidden storage and carefully placed lighting. Enter a gracious foyer on the 8th floor with 10.5-foot ceilings and ample under the staircase hidden storage for coats and shoes. There you'll also find the primary bedroom with an en-suite bath with a wall of closets and amazing storage. As you ascend a dramatic steel staircase, you'll reach an expansive living/dining area, with 10.5-foot ceilings, a large movable bookcase, so clever in its construction and oversized windows that keep this loft well light throughout the day. The open kitchen features luxurious finishes (walnut, Corian and stainless steel) and chef quality appliances including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Miele dishwasher, Bertazzoni 5 burner range. See floor plan and full details here.

The Chelsea Mercantile, #3E
$2,475,000 (-2.9%)

Chelsea | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,365 ft²

The Chelsea Mercantile, #3E (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: The Chelsea Mercantile, built in 1908, was originally a woolens building that was known for manufacturing fabrics. #3E is a renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft with 1365 square feet, a ceiling height of 14 feet, and oversized windows with tree-top views of the neighboring architecture. It features a large living room, a dining area, and a graciously scaled dining bar that opens to the custom-designed kitchen with top-of-the-line Viking appliances, stone countertops, and abundant cabinetry. The primary bedroom has a large walk-in closet and a renovated en-suite bath with a separate soaking tub and a walk-in shower. The apartment trades with a private storage unit. See floor plan and full details here.

The North Moore, #3B
$2,650,000 (-3.6%)

Tribeca | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,282 ft²

The North Moore, #3B (Compass)

From the Listing: Residence 3B at The North Moore enjoys a wonderful location on a coveted cobblestone block as well as excellent amenities, low maintenance and taxes too! The 1,282+/- square-foot modern gem is sun-filled and luxurious, brightened by tons of light pouring in from oversized south-facing windows. This coupled with airy 10'5' ceilings, rich oak wood floors and refined finishes throughout create the home you've been dreaming of. Relax and entertain in the spacious living-dining room, adjoined by a large open kitchen with a breakfast bar, sleek stone counters, abundant white cabinetry and premium stainless steel appliances. The generous primary bedroom is a tranquil retreat with its own dressing area, walk-in closet, and elegant en-suite bath with a dual vessel sink vanity and huge spa shower behind glass. See floor plan and full details here.

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River Front, #303
$2,850,000

DUMBO | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,240 ft²

River Front, #303 (Compass)

From the Listing: Opportunity awaits in this sprawling four-bedroom, three-bathroom condominium featuring sun-splashed interiors and a flexible floor plan in a historic warehouse building situated on one of Dumbo's best streets. Spanning more than 2,200 square feet, this beautiful residence welcomes you with gleaming hardwood floors, 9.5-foot-tall beamed ceilings and rows of oversized windows facing north, south and west. Ahead of the gracious foyer, the palatial great room invites you to relax or entertain, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and substantial art walls. The sleek open kitchen impresses with excellent cabinet and pantry space and a full suite of stainless steel appliances, including a Bosch cooktop and oven, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a dishwasher. Head to the corner owner's suite to discover wraparound windows and beautiful light. This home also conveys with a private storage unit. See floor plan and full details here.

The Bullmoose, #2B
$3,495,000 (-10.3%)

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,555 ft²

The Bullmoose, #2B (Engel & Volkers New York Real Estate LLC)

From the Listing: This one-of-a-kind home offers soaring 13 foot ceilings and is located in the coveted, Beaux-Arts historic Bullmoose Condominium. Gracious living with pre-war loft appeal begins with an inviting foyer that leads to a generous 26'6” x 20'8” living/dining space with oversized, north-facing Pella windows that overlook 20th Street. The open chef's kitchen features a breakfast bar, Poggenpohl cabinetry, 2" thick Carrara marble counters and matching backsplash, 5-burner Viking gas cooktop and electric oven, built-in microwave, Sub-Zero refrigerator and dual temperature wine cooler, Bosch dishwasher, and an Insinkerator disposal. The apartment's three-bedroom wing is located off a spacious central corridor and includes a gracious 19' x 17'10” primary bedroom with two large windows, a very large walk-in closet and a luxurious marble en suite bath. See floor plan and full details here.

The Carl Fischer Building, #3C
$3,850,000

NoHo | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,603 ft²

The Carl Fischer Building, #3C (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Efficiently designed and meticulously maintained, this stunning apartment exudes industrial character and prewar charm. An entry gallery leads to the great room that features 11-foot ceilings, polished concrete floors, and five oversized windows that allow light to pour into the apartment all day. The newly renovated custom chef's kitchen is a cook's dream with an abundance of counterspace, floor to ceiling custom cabinetry, a wine fridge and built-in bar area, a huge Sub-Zero fridge with two freezer drawers, Miele dishwasher, oversized sink, and Wolf range. While the great room can easily accommodate a formal dining table for 8-10, the breakfast bar is perfect for more casual dining. A graciously sized home office with built-in desks for two (or 3rd bedroom) can remain open to the living area or can be closed off by a stunning set of lovingly restored doors that are original to the Carl Fischer Music printery and offices. See floor plan and full details here.

382 Lafayette Street, #4
$4,000,000

NoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,050 ft²

382 Lafayette Street, #4 (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: This gorgeous sun-filled residence boasts over 2,050 square feet and accessed via a private keyed elevator. The expansive floor-through loft, is brightened by light-filled generous windows facing north, south, and east and massive overhead skylight. The modern living room with floor-to-ceiling deep-set windows overlooks stunning architecture and neighborhood cityscapes. The custom kitchen features all stainless steel appliances, beautiful countertops and open to the Great Room. The graciously primary bedroom retreat greets you with a spacious walk-in closet. See floor plan and full details here.

15 Union Square West, #4E
$4,500,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,670 ft²

15 Union Square West, #4E (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Originally commissioned for Tiffany & Co's 1870 headquarters, 15 Union Square West has since been beautifully redesigned into a 21st century architectural-masterpiece in the heart of the iconic Union Square. This unit opens to the gracious entry foyer which spills into the dramatic 734-square-foot living and dining space with floor-to-ceiling arched windows. A fully integrated Crestron system allows you to control temperature, light, sound, and window treatments- all at the push of a button. This expansive room highlighted by 7.5" hardwood mahogany floors, custom light fixtures and built in bar, is the perfect space for all your entertainment needs. Adjacent to the great room is a Vincent Wolf-designed state of the art kitchen lined with custom cabinets and a large Calacatta marble island. Two oversized secondary bedrooms with bright southern exposures, custom closets, and en suite baths also reside on this level. The stainless steel stairs invite you up to the primary suite level which is lined with southern exposed windows, two step-in closets and a spacious walk-in closet. Unit comes with deeded private storage. Two years of common charges paid by owner at closing for full ask offers. See floor plan and full details here.

The Lofts of Greene Street, #4A
$4,700,000

SoHo | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,692 ft²

The Lofts of Greene Street, #4A (Modlin Group LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to 103 Greene Street Apt 4A! One will walk into the apartment directly from the elevator into a massive 35-foot-wide Great Room with five oversized windows as well as exposed brick on both sides, facing east on Greene Street. One will also experience a working gas fire place to keep warm during New York's notorious winters. With incredible natural light, you will feel at ease hanging out in the open chef's kitchen into the living/dining space concept. On the other side of the apartment, down the long hallway, you will eventually come across 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. One who purchases the apartment will also be granted a storage locker included in the sale. See floor plan and full details here.

118 Wooster Street, #4C/5C
$4,895,000

SoHo | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,476 ft²

118 Wooster Street, #4C/5C (Compass)

From the Listing: This Soho duplex loft features all the charm and character one could want from a historic landmarked condo on one of the best blocks in the city and consists of 3 beds and 2.5 baths with western exposure over two floors. The open feel with high ceilings, tons of sunlight beaming through the floor to ceiling oversized windows, exposed brick, and ornate details make this truly a unique home. The fourth floor is the entertaining level with the kitchen, dining, powder room and living room all open around the beautiful staircase which is definitely the focal point of the room. The kitchen has custom cabinetry, stainless fridge and gas range with hood, and dishwasher. The fifth floor features two bedrooms, a third bedroom/home office, two full baths, a walk in sauna, and washer/dryer room with lots of closet/storage space. Noteworthy are the reclaimed oak doors from a nearby Nolita townhouse and the original restored oak floors throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

112 Duane Street, #4S
$5,199,999

Tribeca | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

112 Duane Street, #4S (Olshan Realty Inc)

From the Listing: Welcome to your newly renovated, luxurious, stylish & spectacular loft space, situated on a lovely street in Tribeca in a boutique prewar condominium. A private key locked elevator opens to a full floor apartment. This space epitomizes luxury living, offering a uniquely designed space with grand proportions and versatile layout, with over 3,000 interior square feet and a large L-shaped, 23 X 7 east facing private terrace. The grand main room has beautiful updated original details, tin ceiling, original columns, large windows and a gas fireplace. The large, elegant primary bedroom has east and west exposures with an en-suite bathroom that has a jacuzzi spa tub,, separate shower stall, dual vanities and an amazing, enormous walk in closet/dressing room. See floor plan and full details here.

Lifesaver Lofts, #4A
$5,495,000 (-4%)

Chelsea | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 3,367 ft²

Lifesaver Lofts, #4A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This quintessential light-filled downtown Manhattan loft is spacious and expansive with the kind of authentic architectural details only found in such coveted industrial buildings as the iconic Lifesaver Lofts in vibrant West Chelsea. The large open and flexible layout with 10.5' ceilings and 17 oversized new single-pane windows offers abundant natural light, exposed brick walls, cast iron columns, and beautifully restored original hardwood floors. Juxtapose all this with the latest in luxurious finishes and state-of-the-art appliances, and you have the perfect combination for luxurious loft living in the epicenter of the Highline and the Chelsea Gallery Districts. See floor plan and full details here.

15 Mercer Street, #4
$6,500,000

SoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 3,100 ft²

15 Mercer Street, #4 (Nest Seekers LLC)

From the Listing: Upon entering this gracious loft residence, the 13-foot ceiling heights and 8-foot-wide windows immediately stand out and differentiate this apartment as the epitome of downtown chic. The key-locked elevator brings you to this spectacular 2-bedroom, 2-bath home that has been completely renovated with top-of-the-line finishes. The loft features a multiple zone Audio/Visual system, a chef's kitchen with high-end Miele, Viking, and Sub-Zero appliances, a wine fridge, and a separate laundry room with state-of-the-art washer and dryer. The grand open living room is perfect for entertaining with its working fireplace, ample space for two complete sitting and entertaining sections, and a spacious dining area. The bedrooms are well-proportioned, and each features an en-suite bath. See floor plan and full details here.

The Gerken Building, #11
$6,795,000

Tribeca | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 3,500 ft²

The Gerken Building, #11 (Compass)

From the Listing: Designed and built by Harding and Gooch in 1885, The Gerken Building was originally home to the New York National Exchange Bank. It is now one of TriBeCa's premier co-op properties, and this completely renovated full-floor loft with four big exposures is the type of classic loft that rarely presents itself anywhere in Manhattan's bustling downtown. A substantially proportioned gallery separates the private keyed elevators from the tremendous living space with eight double wide windows and its open views of glorious Manhattan. The corner living room looks to the north and east with skyline views of New York's icons such as the Chrysler Building, 1 Centre Street, 56 Leonard and Hudson Yards. The formal dining area has a gorgeously appointed wine bar, easily seats a meal for eight and is thoughtfully connected to the large, renovated kitchen. Entering the primary bedroom suite through a large custom steel and glass door takes you through the well-appointed home office area into the sleeping area with views to the west and south. See floor plan and full details here.

84 Mercer Street, #2B
$8,000,000

SoHo | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 6,100 ft²

84 Mercer Street, #2B (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: With massive ceiling heights, enormous windows and incredible light, this 6,100-square-foot home provides qualities seldom seen. An incredible ballroom-like living room is the heart of this residence, perfect for displaying your art collection or simply entertaining. The current owners executed a flawless restoration of this historic loft and incorporated the finest finishes and modern features. From the walnut floors to the Corinthian columns, custom lighting and expertly built storage, the attention to detail is unparalleled. Let your culinary skill come alive in this exquisite kitchen, where professional chefs will be right at home. Sliding doors lead to an oversized library, which serves as the perfect home office with massive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Towering columns carry throughout and line the corridor leading to the south-facing primary suite. See floor plan and full details here.

In this article:

Sweeney Building, #5H
$1,695,000

718 Broadway, #5B
$1,800,000

258 Broadway, #5E
$1,850,000

133 Mulberry Street, #5A
$2,250,000

The Silk Building, #823
$2,395,000

The Chelsea Mercantile, #3E
$2,475,000 (-2.9%)

The North Moore, #3B
$2,650,000 (-3.6%)

Select which properties are of interest to you:

River Front, #303
$2,850,000

The Bullmoose, #2B
$3,495,000 (-10.3%)

The Carl Fischer Building, #3C
$3,850,000

382 Lafayette Street, #4
$4,000,000

15 Union Square West, #4E
$4,500,000

The Lofts of Greene Street, #4A
$4,700,000

118 Wooster Street, #4C/5C
$4,895,000

112 Duane Street, #4S
$5,199,999

Lifesaver Lofts, #4A
$5,495,000 (-4%)

15 Mercer Street, #4
$6,500,000

The Gerken Building, #11
$6,795,000

84 Mercer Street, #2B
$8,000,000

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Top contracts in "empty Manhattan" include half-floor in the Flatiron Building and the penthouse at The Treadwell