On the heels of Mayor Adams' office-to-residential plan, see apartments in converted office and industrial buildings

By CityRealty Staff | From Get To Know Monday, August 21, 2023

In the earliest days of the pandemic, as it became clear that people could do their work remotely and the economy would not collapse, some began to wonder why New York's empty office buildings couldn’t be converted to much-needed housing. More recently, Mayor Eric Adams announced new plans that would lead to meaningful steps in that direction. The city seeks to rezone 23rd to 40th Street from Fifth to Eighth Avenues, which is currently zoned for manufacturing use, to allow the construction of residential apartments.

Additional proposed zoning changes allow office buildings constructed before 1990 to convert to housing (bumping up the current cutoff of 1977 at the latest) and allowing buildings to convert to housing wherever the current zoning regulations allow for it. It is a daunting process because of the many agencies that must get involved, but Mayor Adams also established the Office Conversions Accelerator with representatives of various city departments to facilitate the conversions to residential. The mayor once said of remote work, “You can’t sit around in your pajamas all day,” but even he admits that “the world has changed [and] we have to be willing to change with it.”

“By enabling office conversions, New York will reinvigorate its business districts and deliver new homes near jobs and transit” – Maria Torres-Springer, Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce

The announcement is the first step in a long process. The public outreach process is set to begin this fall, and the plans must be approved by the City Council in a vote estimated for next year. The New York Times notes that two Councilmembers who represent the area in question support the plan; however, New York State’s multiple dwellings law includes requirements that New York City cannot alter, and this must also be addressed. Furthermore, offices are notoriously difficult to convert because of requirements concerning windows, egress, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Nevertheless, it is not an impossible undertaking. The Financial District is a textbook example of the success of converting offices to residential, and it is now a live-work-play area. Before that, industrial buildings in downtown Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn got converted to loft apartments by intrepid artists who transformed these desolate areas into hot neighborhoods.

Waverly Mews, #PHT
$750,000

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 500 ft²
Former hat factory

Waverly Mews, #PHT (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This remarkable residence boasts a perfect blend of modern amenities, luxurious features, and a prime downtown location. With its southern exposure, the apartment is bathed in natural light, accentuating its spacious layout. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the expansive living area adorned with huge windows that provide panoramic views and create an inviting, bright atmosphere. The open kitchen concept is adorned with stainless steel appliances and offers a seamless transition between cooking, dining, and entertaining. The ample closet space ensures that your belongings will be neatly organized, while the sleek design of the space reflects a contemporary aesthetic. See floor plan and full details here.

Greenwich Place, #PHC
$799,000

Financial District | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 631 ft²
Former office building

Greenwich Place, #PHC (Pulse International Realty Inc)

From the Listing: This corner one-bedroom penthouse flooded with natural light located on desirable Greenwich Street boasts 12-foot ceilings with skylights and direct access to the rooftop garden. This condominium features a state-of-the-art kitchen with stainless steel appliances, Brazilian granite counter tops, sleek grey stone backsplash, and custom oak cabinets with undermount lighting. The contemporary bathroom features sandstone glass tiles. Gorgeous pine hardwood floors and tons of closet and storage space throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

Belltel Lofts, #8D
$1,075,000

Downtown Brooklyn | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 1,099 ft²
Former headquarters of New York Telephone

Belltel Lofts, #8D (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to this stunning designer loft in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, within a beautifully restored Art Deco landmark! High ceilings and bamboo flooring greet you throughout as you enter. The large open-plan kitchen features exquisite Brazilian soapstone counters, a 220v Thermador electric oven, a Miele gas cooktop, a Liebherr built-in refrigerator, a Bosch dishwasher, a four-stage professional water filter, and a beautiful Murano glass dome light hanging over the dining area. The generous primary bedroom features sliding glass doors, wrought iron pendant lighting, and a custom closet with locking jewelry drawers, built-in hampers, shoe shelves, and other convenient storage options. See floor plan and full details here.

Forward Building, #4A
$1,245,000 (-3.9%)

Lower East Side | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 625 ft²
Former newspaper publishing office

Forward Building, #4A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This 1912 Beaux Arts Architectural Masterpiece Condo is most sought after. Enjoy the open kitchen, custom cabinets, marble counter top and stainless steel Frigidaire professional appliances. There is also room for a 4-seater dining table. Plenty of sunlight enters through the over-sized windows facing northwest with views of the park and city life. The 12-foot ceiling and generous living room feel gallery-like. The well-appointed bathroom has white subway tiles and a grey slate flooring and a tub with shower. Adjacent to the bathroom find a Miele washer and dryer. The purchase includes a secure personal storage unit. See floor plan and full details here.

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One Wall Street, #831
$1,495,000

Financial District | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 779 ft²
Former Irving Trust Company headquarters

One Wall Street, #831 (Compass)

From the Listing: Residence 831 is a north-facing one-bedroom home with a graciously proportioned entry foyer that flows into the home's linear kitchen and great room. The building's one-of-a-kind residences maintain the integrity and sprawling character of the 1930s scale, boasting ceiling heights over ten feet throughout and wide-plank French Oak hardwood floors. Kitchens designed by Harry Macklowe himself provide seamless technology coupled with classic elegance. Warm stone primary bathrooms feature large walk-in showers with thermostatic controls. See floor plan and full details here.

The Silk Building, #815
$1,950,000

NoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
Former silk garment factory

The Silk Building, #815 (Compass)

From the Listing: Enter this loft on the upper level with a common bath, second bedroom and plenty of wall space to display your art. Down the stairs is an open kitchen, dining, living area and the primary bedroom with southern views. There is forced air cooling and excellent cross ventilation with windows on all exterior walls. This home is made for entertaining with a renovated kitchen and an open loft layout that is bright and open with soaring 10' ceilings throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

Liberty Tower, #PH31A
$2,000,000

Financial District | Cooperative | 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths
Former office building

Liberty Tower, #PH31A (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: Unit PH31A occupies the entire floor of the building and is one short flight up from the 30th floor elevator landing. Its new resident will experience four exposures with panoramic views of the city including the historic Financial District skyline and the Hudson and East Rivers. This unit enjoys the unique status of being the former attic of the building which comes with special architectural details such as the sloped and vaulted ceilings as well as exposed beams and pipes. Spanning over 3,000 square feet on the main level and over 600 on the mezzanine, this home features 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, separate dining and living areas, a dedicated laundry room, as well as two home office/flex rooms on an additional mezzanine level. See floor plan and full details here.

49 Chambers Street, #12C
$2,195,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 1,290 ft²
Former Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank

49 Chambers Street, #12C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome home to the this large one-bedroom with study, one-and-a-half bath residence designed by Gabellini Sheppard, housed within one of Manhattan's finest Beaux-Arts landmark buildings. A grand entry door opens to a foyer in this sophisticated home featuring unique craftsmanship and hickory hardwood floors in a custom chevron pattern throughout. An large open kitchen with custom ceruse Cypress wood cabinetry by Minimal Cucine seamlessly opens into the living / dining room. The primary king-sized bedroom suite exhibits a gracious sense of volume and scale with an oversized bay window and elevated ceilings, generous closet space and a five-fixture en-suite primary bath with luminous cove lighting as a sculptural element. See floor plan and full details here.

262 Mott Street, #301
$2,495,000

NoLiTa/Little Italy | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,358 ft²
Former armory

262 Mott Street, #301 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This jaw-dropping loft is brimming with character and original details, complemented by clean modern finishes. Enter via an airy entry hallway with a large closet, revealing a gracious ambience bathed in natural light by 7 west-facing floor-to-ceiling windows, with treetop views overlooking charming Mott Street. Entertain in the spacious sun-filled living room enhanced by original vintage wood columns and beams, and rich hardwood floors. The seamless layout flows into a huge dining room and massive chef's kitchen featuring 25 linear feet of cabinetry storage and counter space, exposed white brick, plus premium appointments for the gourmet. Bedrooms are inviting and generously-sized with phenomenal built-in closets and sliding glass doors that afford cascading brightness and openness. The king-size primary suite additionally presents an ample work area, and wonderful 6-piece full bath with double sinks, a soaking tub, oversized shower and bidet. See floor plan and full details here.

The Police Building, #6N
$3,700,000

NoLiTa/Little Italy | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 1,770 ft²
Former New York Police Department headquarters

The Police Building, #6N (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: With soaring ceilings and skylights, as well as exposures offering quintessential downtown views to the East, West and North, Apartment 6N is both quiet and bathed in light. Meticulous renovations accentuate the exposed brick, terra cotta and iron structural elements, which are themselves ingeniously accented by sleek walls and finishes. The domed bedroom awes and is bathed in light from both circular and fanning skylights, through which beautiful and detailed exterior architectural elements of this historic, Belle-Epoque building can be seen. Circular in shape, the bedroom is accented by a mullioned, Northern oval window, and ringing the base of the bedroom is custom-designed and abundant cabinetry, offering generous hanging, drawer, and open storage. There is beautiful, wide-plank oak flooring throughout, central air conditioning controlled through a Nest system, and a stacked, full-size LG washer/vented dryer. Basement storage cage transfers with the apartment. See floor plan and full details here.

27 Great Jones Street, #2W
$3,995,000

NoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,041 ft²
Former industrial loft building

27 Great Jones Street, #2W (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to this classic two bedroom condominium NoHo loft, with wood-burning fireplace, private outdoor space, central air and private laundry - a true find nestled in a landmarked neighborhood. Step into this spacious haven featuring two generously sized bedrooms and two full baths, providing ample space for relaxation and rejuvenation. The central air ensures year-round comfort, while the wood-burning fireplace exudes a cozy ambiance, perfect for those chilly nights. Beautiful wide-plank floors lead you through the open layout adorned with high ceilings and original beams that harken back to the building's rich history. The exposed brick walls add a touch of character, while the huge windows flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that's truly one-of-a-kind. Prepare culinary delights in the large chef's kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, a dream come true for any home cook. See floor plan and full details here.

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #14G
$4,125,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,369 ft²
Former New York Telephone Company headquarters

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #14G (Living New York)

From the Listing: Enjoy a life of luxury, location and amenities in this deal priced and meticulously designed home in coveted 100 Barclay Street! Residence 14G is an expansive 3-bedroom / 3.5-bathroom apartment with large rooms and scale including an oversized primary bedroom, formal foyer leading to an expansive great room, generous closet space and en-suite baths throughout including linen and laundry / washer / dryer and two dining areas, one that can be converted easily to a fourth bedroom. Upgrades include recessed lighting, embedded Sonos speakers, custom motorized shades, and custom closets throughout. Available furnished. See floor plan and full details here.

Lion's Head, #PHF
$4,750,000

Chelsea | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,665 ft²
Former commercial building

Lion's Head, #PHF (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Live in high style in this luxurious penthouse duplex boasting 2,585+/- square feet of designer loft-like living space, spectacular views from every room, and a large private outdoor terrace! Set on the 11th and top story of the boutique Lion's Head condominium in prime Chelsea, this rare, spacious gem accented by rich oak wood floors, soaring 13-foot ceilings, and refined finishes throughout. Oversized sound-proofed European-style windows lining both levels create a quiet ambience, invite in abundant natural light, and frame amazing city skyline vistas capturing the Empire State and other iconic buildings. The open kitchen is tailored to the chef featuring sleek Poggenpohl cabinetry, granite counters and backsplash, sleek wood cabinetry, and premium stainless steel Viking appliances. Also on this level is a guest powder room, fabulous primary bedroom retreat with a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, 2 additional bedrooms with ample closets, a full hall bath, and a convenient washer-dryer. Ascend the central staircase to the upper floor, a divine escape presenting a tranquil library or fourth bedroom, a full bath, sun-filled den/solarium, and fabulous private terrace with amazing city and blue sky views. Apartment comes with designated storage unit. See floor plan and full details here.

144 Franklin Street, #3FL
$5,495,000

Tribeca | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 3,000 ft²
Former olive oil and feta cheese factory

144 Franklin Street, #3FL (Compass)

From the Listing: This generous full-floor loft, designed for and by artists, was impeccably reimagined by the renowned Norwegian architectural firm Tupelo. Features include key-locked elevator, original factory door, hand-oiled maple floors, cast-iron columns, and exposed wood beams and soundproofed beams. The kitchen includes Boffi cabinetry, black absolute counters, and premium-grade applicants. The primary bedroom is accessed by double frosted glass and hardwood sliding doors, and the primary bathroom comes equipped with Agape soaking tub and separate marble shower. See floor plan and full details here.

554 Broome Street, #PH
$5,995,000

SoHo | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,595 ft²
Former Fire Department of New York stable

554 Broome Street, #PH (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This stunning duplex penthouse boasts an unparalleled blend of sophisticated indoor and outdoor living spaces, complete with natural light from three exposures. A private keyed elevator whisks you into the 2,900-square-foot duplex, featuring 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, 18' ceilings, four private terraces and a 40' long private roof deck promises to elevate your living experience moments from Soho. Upon entering, a glass and walnut staircase guides you into an expansive living area blessed with 12' ceilings and natural light streaming through multiple oversized skylights. This well appointed floor easily accommodates various lounging and dining arrangements, complemented by a warm wood-burning fireplace, and seamless access to a terrace through sleek sliding glass doors. The kitchen is adorned with marble countertops, flooded with natural light from the expansive skylight, and features top-of-the-line Viking, Sub-Zero, and Miele appliances, a home chef's dream. Descend to the lower level, where you'll discover the primary suite, a true oasis boasting two fully built-out closets and custom built-in shelving for your storage needs. See floor plan and full details here.

Artisan Lofts, #10A
$6,999,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,800 ft²
Former commercial building

Artisan Lofts, #10A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This spacious, sun-filled apartment features approximately 2,800 square feet of living space, soaring 11.8' ceilings with incredible light and city views. The gracious 21' entrance gallery, while offering excellent wall space for art and additional privacy for the home, leads to an incredible corner great room with south and west exposures, city views, and beautiful sunsets. Perfectly laid out, the entertaining space includes an open kitchen with a large center island that allows for casual everyday dining and offers excellent prep space. The primary suite receives terrific light from the southern exposure, while the windows frame the World Trade Center perfectly. Additionally, the primary has a huge walk-in closet and en-suite bath with a deep soaking tub, separate shower and double vanity. The additional bedrooms are on the opposite side of the apartment, offering Hudson River and iconic city views. See floor plan and full details here.

443 Greenwich Street, #PHE
$32,500,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 5,000 ft²
Former book bindery

443 Greenwich Street, #PHE (Compass)

From the Listing: Penthouse E underwent a full remodel by E.B. Min, of Min Design Co. in San Francisco, earning her team a prestigious SF Design Week Award. The spacious layout boasts 4,968 square feet of living space spread over the sixth and seventh floors, with a 1,254-square-foot private rooftop terrace. Min's unique minimalism creates harmony between heavy and the light elements. Large timber beams and columns contrast with smooth, minimal surfaces and a restrained and elemental color palette. The interior features all-new built-ins and millwork, including custom Fenix laminate over baltic birch and Wilsonart Traceless laminate over baltic birch, custom pegboard for the craft room/office is also birch. The bedrooms and bathrooms have wire brushed douglas fir cypress casework, there is additional hallway storage, new engineered white oak flooring and built-in bookshelves throughout. In fall and winter, a unique humidification system and working fireplace in the living room keep the spacious interior cozy and inviting. Deeded indoor parking space with electric vehicle charger included. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

This is your member's center

In this article:

“By enabling office conversions, New York will reinvigorate its business districts and deliver new homes near jobs and transit” – Maria Torres-Springer, Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce

Waverly Mews, #PHT
$750,000

Greenwich Place, #PHC
$799,000

Belltel Lofts, #8D
$1,075,000

Forward Building, #4A
$1,245,000 (-3.9%)

Select which properties are of interest to you:

One Wall Street, #831
$1,495,000

The Silk Building, #815
$1,950,000

Liberty Tower, #PH31A
$2,000,000

49 Chambers Street, #12C
$2,195,000

262 Mott Street, #301
$2,495,000

The Police Building, #6N
$3,700,000

27 Great Jones Street, #2W
$3,995,000

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #14G
$4,125,000

Lion's Head, #PHF
$4,750,000

144 Franklin Street, #3FL
$5,495,000

554 Broome Street, #PH
$5,995,000

Artisan Lofts, #10A
$6,999,000

443 Greenwich Street, #PHE
$32,500,000

This is your member's center

In this article:

“By enabling office conversions, New York will reinvigorate its business districts and deliver new homes near jobs and transit” – Maria Torres-Springer, Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

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