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309 West 57th Street
Last updated on May 4, 2026

309 West 57th Street

This 16-story rental apartment building at 309 West 57th Street was built in 1927 and designed by Rosario Candela, known for luxury pre-war apartments on the Upper East Side. Originally designed as a 'Skyscraper Church' with a Gothic portal at its base, the building later housed various religious congregations and eventually became home to a recording studio and nightclub. Currently, 2 apartments are for rent.

309 West 57th Street Location Map
Unit #
Beds
Baths
Size
Price / Ft2
Price
Listed on
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Overview of 309 West 57th Street

Located at 309 West 57th Street, this 16-story rental apartment building was erected in 1927 by Vincent J. Slattery and Morris H. Rothschild, with design by the renowned architect Rosario Candela. Known for its pre-war luxury, the building features a distinctive brown brick façade with a two-story stone base and decorative elements at the 15th floor. It is situated near prominent landmarks such as the Hearst Building and Central Park, offering a prime location for residents.

The building is pet friendly and includes amenities such as two elevators, a video intercom system, and a new laundry room. Residents benefit from a live-in superintendent and a door attendant available seven days a week. Apartments are characterized by their pre-war charm, featuring hardwood floors, renovated kitchens with stainless steel appliances, and spacious layouts with ample closet space.

Historically, the building has a unique past, originally designed as a "Skyscraper Church" and home to the Church of Strangers. It later became the Media Sound Recording Studio, attracting artists like Aretha Franklin and John Lennon. The building also honors composer Bela Bartok, who lived there during his final year, with a sculpture on its façade.

While the building lacks a garage, fitness center, and roof deck, its central location offers easy access to Central Park, the Time Warner Building, and Whole Foods, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a blend of historical charm and modern convenience.
Doorman
None
Type
Rental
Year Built
1928
Apartments
Floors
16
Pets: Allowed
Neighborhood

Amenities

  • High-Rise
  • Pre War
  • Resident Storage
  • Washer/Dryer in building
  • Elevator
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  1. 1
  2. B
  3. D
  4. A
  5. C
at Columbus Circle 0.10 miles
  1. N
  2. Q
  3. R
at 7th Ave 0.22 miles
  1. E
at Broadway and 53rd 0.31 miles
  1. F
at 6th Ave 0.38 miles

Pros & Cons

  • Designed by Rosario Candela
  • Pet friendly
  • Live-in superintendent
  • Excellent public transportation
  • Two blocks from Central Park
  • One block from Columbus Circle
  • Across 57th Street from the Hearst Building
  • Prime Midtown West location
  • Close to Subway
  • Exposed rooftop water tank
  • Protruding air-conditioners
  • No fitness center
  • No balconies
  • No roof deck
  • No garage
  • No doorman

CityRealty Rating

18
/44
Architecture
+
26
/36
Location
+
8
/39
Features
+
8
Editor’s Points
=
60
CITYREALTY
RATING
  • How is the CityRealty Rating calculated?

    Architecture
    • 30+ remarkable
    • 20-29 distinguished
    • 11-19 average
    • < 11 below average
    Location
    • 27+ remarkable
    • 18-26 distinguished
    • 9-17 average
    • < 9 below average
    Features
    • 22+ remarkable
    • 16-21 distinguished
    • 9-15 average
    • < 9 below average

Pricing Comparison of Similar Buildings

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