River Place,
650 West 42nd Street

Overview of River Place at 650 West 42nd Street

River Place is a massive 921 unit rental complex at 650 West 42nd Street, anchoring the western end of the street with commanding views over the Hudson River. Developed by Larry Silverstein of Silverstein Properties and designed by Costas Kondylis, this 41 story tower opened in 2000 as the first phase of an ambitious full block development between 11th and 12th Avenues. Silverstein, who later became known for purchasing the World Trade Center shortly before 9/11, first envisioned this project in 1984, anticipating that the redevelopment of Times Square would create demand for nearby housing.

The development represents one of New York's largest rental complexes, with Silver Towers at River Place comprising the second phase featuring two gleaming 60 story residential towers connected by a six story base, adding another 1,359 units to the site. Both phases operate as 80 20 rental projects, meaning 20 percent of units are reserved for tenants with moderate incomes, creating what Silverstein calls a model for balanced residential communities. The project overcame significant hurdles including rezoning from industrial use, legal challenges, and political debates over potential Javits Convention Center expansion.

Architecturally, the red brick development features multi angled sections designed to minimize the project's massive scale, with a tall west section and shorter east section. The building employs horizontal fenestration patterns to further reduce visual mass and includes a large space frame entrance marquee. The complex's design philosophy emphasizes breaking down the imposing scale through varied angles and thoughtful massing.

Amenities at River Place are exceptionally comprehensive, featuring a 34,000 square foot fitness center with a 75 foot long glass enclosed swimming pool, two outdoor tennis courts, an indoor basketball court, and multiple sun decks overlooking the Hudson River waterfront. Additional facilities include 24 hour concierge service, children's playroom, billiards room, on site valet parking, and daily shuttle service to central Midtown. The development includes a quarter acre landscaped public park designed by Thomas Balsley & Associates, featuring an interactive mist fountain and notably, a giant slide created by renowned artist Tom Otterness.

Apartment layouts range from studios to two bedrooms, with distinctive features like six sided living rooms, large bay windows, and angled window configurations that maximize river and city views. Notable unit types include two bedroom apartments with 21 foot wide living rooms and open windowed kitchens, and unique studio units with 11 sided living rooms. Current listings highlight spacious layouts with exceptional sunset river views, modern renovations, and the building's extensive amenity package, though residents pay a monthly amenity fee of $110. Income requirements typically mandate 40 times the monthly rent, reflecting the building's position in the luxury rental market.