315 Riverside Drive

Overview of 315 Riverside Drive

315 Riverside Drive, a distinguished 19-story Art Deco building completed in 1920, was designed by the architectural firm of Boak & Paris and converted to a cooperative in 1984. The building contains 93 apartments and showcases notable architectural elements including a limestone base, decorative balconies, curved masonry spandrels, and an attractive rooftop water tank enclosure.

The building's impressive design features a two-story limestone entrance surround with a canopy on the side street, and distinctive red-framed windows throughout. Its grand lobby is particularly noteworthy, featuring beamed ceilings with gilded accents, an arched alcove, and a two-step-up alcove for the mail chute. First-floor windows are adorned with decorative grills featuring floral motifs.

Many apartments feature elegant pre-war details including decorative fireplaces, sunken living rooms, and impressive entrance galleries stretching up to 25 feet. Some units offer two-step-up dining alcoves, and the building is known for its thoughtfully designed layouts that maximize space and light. Several apartments boast stunning views of the Hudson River.

The building has an interesting historical connection to Emery Roth, as both Russell M. Boak and Hyman F. Paris worked as draftsmen for the renowned architect before establishing their own firm in 1927. The building also gained notoriety in 1957 when resident Vincent "Jimmy Blue Eyes" Alo, associated with Frank Costello, was mentioned in a New York Times article about a police roundup.

Amenities include 24-hour doorman service, a live-in superintendent, storage facilities, a bicycle room, laundry facilities, and a spectacular roof deck offering panoramic views. The building is pet-friendly and features a courtyard with gardens and attractive sidewalk landscaping.

Situated in the Riverside-West End Historic District, the building enjoys a prime location across from Riverside Park, which offers tennis courts and a dog run at 105th Street. The neighborhood provides easy access to transportation and various dining establishments, making it a coveted Upper West Side address.