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New Construction on the Upper East Side: 4 Modern Classics in Manhattan Luxury
The Upper East Side is renowned for its pedigree of Manhattanite refinement. To be sure, many of the neighborhood’s new constructions — such as those — showcase a keen awareness of the area’s high-end history, and their architecture reflects this timeless appeal. Here’s a list of our four favorite, totally new constructions that combine refreshing design with the Upper East Side’s sophistication.
Designed by Thomas Juul-Hansen, 60 East 86th Street features strikingly modern design, both inside and out. As Leonardo da Vinci once (allegedly) said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” and 60 East 86th Street really leans into this school of thought. Its stunning homes implement crisp lines and premium materials to create spacious, airy spaces; and gridded, floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings create sunlight-flooded living rooms. Meanwhile, polished marble surfaces and custom rosewood cabinetry perfectly suit discerning tastes.
Similarly, this new construction in the Carnegie Hill area, and its architectural cornice line, columnar motifs, and Juliet balconies and terraces evoke an undeniable pre-war aesthetic. Nevertheless, this building’s forward-thinking design is environmentally friendly, as demonstrated by its LEED certification. Modern minimalism meets pre-war flourishes to create decidedly elegant interiors.
Despite being one of the more modern buildings to make our list, 441 East 57th Street is surprisingly subdued — aside from its silver facade, it looks rather unassuming among the Upper East Side’s mid-rises. Within its walls, futuristic facets include high-tech key fobs for keyless lobby entry, and touchless elevators. Quietly sleek interiors feature atypically asymmetrical gridded windows, rich wooden cabinetry, and slate tiling.
Technically just two blocks too far south to be considered part of the Upper East Side (but still totally worth mentioning), 252 East 47th Street is probably the most strikingly modern building on our list. Its sculptural architecture complements its fantastic set of amenities, which include a state-of-the-art, Technogym-furnished health and fitness center, complete with a 75 foot swimming pool, and complete spa facilities. Additionally, the building’s entrance showcases a motor court, an uncommon fixture that really evokes classic Manhattan stylings — The Apthorp has a particularly famous one — but unlike The Apthorp, .