January 24, 2008
Open season
Our favorite open houses this week:
204 W. 78th St., Upper West Side, $995,000
Sunday, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Given the 750-square-foot private roof garden attached to this two-bedroom duplex, a person could be forgiven for never wanting to go inside. Assuming you do decide to venture indoors, though, you'll find features like a renovated eat-in chef's kitchen, a cherry-wood wet bar and a wraparound terrace. In other words, wherever you go, you'll be in pretty good shape.
50 E. 72nd St., Upper East Side, $2.299 million
Sunday, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
$1,900 a square foot is pretty pricey, but if you want the lifestyle of an Upper East Side society type, you're going to have to pay for it. For your money you'll get two bedrooms, a formal dining room, an oversized living room with a wood-burning fireplace and marble and limestone bathrooms. As for a slot on the board at the Met -- well, that one you're just gonna have to figure out for yourself.
82 Charles St., Greenwich Village, $679,000
Sunday, noon to 1:30 p.m.
"Incredibly charming" says the listing for this parlor-level one-bedroom, and, hard-bitten cynics though we are, we're inclined to agree. Situated in an 1830s-era building, this one-bedroom comes with high ceilings, exposed brick, tall windows and an updated kitchen. There are also plans to add a roof deck by summer. And listen up, kids -- the apartment is a co-op, but parents are allowed to foot the bill, so call up Mom and Dad and see if they've got a spare 700 grand or so sitting around.
1431 Glenwood Rd., Ditmas Park, $939,000
Sunday, noon to 1:30 p.m.
Let's face it, you're not getting any younger, and those Tuesday nights spent guzzling Ketel One in the back of shady Lower East Side bars are starting to take their toll. What to do? Why, move to the suburbs, of course. Or maybe just to Brooklyn. This detached Ditmas Park four-bedroom comes with a backyard, a deck, a two-car garage and its own private driveway. Eat your heart out, Teaneck!
200 Chambers St., TriBeCa, $8,900 a month
Sunday, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
For $8,900 you can get either a pretty decent used car or a month in this TriBeCa two-bedroom. Will the car come with a Viking range and an over-sized Zuma soaking tub, though? Our guess is probably not. Also unlikely to come with the car -- a fitness center, landscaped terrace, sky-lit indoor pool and private social lounge. On the other hand, with the car you probably will get pleather seats and a stereo, so, you know, there's that to consider.
-- Adam Bonislawski
Posted by Adam Bonislawski on 03:14 PM | Comments (0)
January 23, 2008
This week's calendar
Thursday, Jan. 24
"Green Affordable Housing" Screening and Q&A;
From the six-part PBS series on the future of sustainable development and global warming narrated by Brad Pitt, "Green Affordable Housing" explores the social, environmental and economic issues of sustainable architecture. This screening features affordable New York housing projects created by Jonathan Rose Companies, including the Burnham Building in Irvington, NY; the Joyce and David Dinkins' Gardens project in Harlem; and the as-yet-to-be-built mixed-income development Via Verde, which will rise in the South Bronx. The screening will be followed by a Q&A; with Jonathan Rose. 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place. RSVP to (212) 584-5000, ext. 327 or cpetre@fenton.com.
Thursday, Jan. 24
Drinks with a Designer: Gordon Kipping
This tour and discussion with architect Gordon Kipping takes place at Issey Miyake's new boutique, Miyake Madison, which Kipping recently designed. He will discuss the design and construction of the store, as well as the relationship between architect and client. After the program, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., there's the opportunity to mingle with other designers and Kipping at the Phoenix Park bar. The event is open to all young designers who are five years or less out of school in the fields of graphic, industrial or fashion design, architecture or art. Reservations are required; the group is limited to 20 people. E-mail designin5@archleague.org or call (212) 753-1722, ext. 13 to reserve a spot.
Through Friday, Jan. 25
David Larwill & the Western Desert Artists
Want something completely different (with a Down Under flair) to decorate your walls? In honor of Australia Week, this debut exhibit features 16 paintings by David Larwill (whose work is in the collections of the British Museum and the National Gallery of Australia) that are inspired by Aboriginal culture, as well as a selection of Aboriginal paintings from the Papunya Tula Collective in Alice Springs. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Stephan Weiss Studio, 711 Greenwich St. And if you like what you see, 10 percent of sales from the exhibition will be donated to Donna Karan's Urban Zen Initiative.
Through Sunday, Jan. 27
Winter Antiques Show
You can spot everything from Medieval and Renaissance manuscripts to Old Master and Impressionist paintings to arms and armor to Russian jewelry, Scandinavian clocks and ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art at this show, one of the biggest and most important of the season. It boasts 75 exhibitors, including 28 specialists displaying American antiques and works of art (like this Snowy Owl print from Audubon's "Birds of America"), 12 exhibitors showcasing American and European antiques and 33 exhibitors displaying English, European and Asian antiques. There will also be various talks given throughout the fair. Consult Winter Antiques Show for specific dates and times. Daily admission: $20. Park Avenue Armory, 67th Street and Park Avenue.
Monday, Jan. 28
One Bryant Park Exhibition Opening
The new office tower at Bryant Park, designed by Cook+Fox Architects and developed by the Durst Organization and Bank of America, is an example of green design in the 21st century (the building is anticipating a LEED platinum rating, the highest level). The 54-story tower will integrate sustainable design with worker health and productivity. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place.
Tuesday, Jan. 29
2008 Real Estate Forecast and Breakfast
The New York chapter of the Appraisal Institute and Counselors of Real Estate will co-host a breakfast program outlining what to expect in the housing market this year. (We wonder if they'll be serving the Rooty Tooty Fresh 'n Fruity.) Speakers include Dr. Steven Cochrane from Moody's and Robert Lieber from the city's economic development office. Registration at 7:45 a.m. Breakfast and program at 8 a.m. $75. Club 101, 101 Park Ave. at 40th St. Reserve a spot by calling (866) 966-3710.
Tuesday, Jan. 29
Association of Real Estate Women Networking Reception
Even if you're not totally into these cocktail/networking events, we recommend you attend this one, if only for the location -- at one of the grandest and most exclusive clubs in the city, the New York Yacht Club (eat your heart out, Soho House). The reception includes food, drinks and plenty of opportunities to meet and chat. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. $125, members; $150, non-members. Register at Association of Real Estate Women.
Tuesday, Jan. 29
The Fate of the Far West Side
The Hudson Yards and Far West Side of Manhattan have been rezoned, and many plans have been proposed, discussed, dismissed and embraced. To learn more about what's in store for the largest development project in Manhattan, check out this panel of experts that include Anna Hayes Levin, Chair of Clinton/Hell's Kitchen Land Use Committee of Community Board; Lynne B. Sagalyn, Professor of Real Estate Development and Planning at the University of Pennsylvania; and Richard Ravitch, former chairman of the MTA. 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. $9, non-members; $5, members. Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave. at 104th Street, (212) 534-1672, ext. 3395.
"Strata" Exhibition
So, you read our cover story from a few weeks ago, and are now contemplating moving on up the river? Get inspired by this collection of paintings of the Hudson River Valley by artist Martin Weinstein. AFP Galleries, The Fuller Building, 595 Madison Ave., Suite 702, (212) 230-1003.
WHAT'S ON SALE
APARTMENT 48
48 W. 17th St., near Sixth Ave.,(212) 807-1391
Sale: Through Jan. 31
Open: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun. noon–7 p.m.
Before the move to its new Greenwich Avenue location, this adorable Chelsea spot is offering John Robshaw bedding and John Derian decoupage, among other items, for 50 to 60 percent off.
ARMANI CASA
97 Greene St., nr. Prince St. (212) 334-1271
Sale: Through Feb. 24
Hours: Tues. to Sat., 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun., noon–6 p.m.
At this overstock sale, select merchandise is 20 to 65 percent off including the Oscar Sgabello stool, now $1,000.
AUTO
803, 805 Washington St., between Gansevoort and Horatio streets,(212) 229-2292
Sale: Through Jan. 31
Open: Mon.-Fri., noon-7 p.m./Sat., noon-7 p.m./Sun., noon-6 p.m.
A big winter clearance will knock prices down. Etro pillows are $70 (reg. $138), John Robshaw throw pillows and bedding in queen size, $80 (reg. $145), Eazy Bean ottomans and bean bags are 50 percent off.
BOCONCEPT
44 W. 18th St. (between 6th and 7th avenues), (646) 336-8188
Open: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m./Sat. and Sun. noon-6 p.m.
Sale: Through Jan. 27
Get 20 percent off all beds and mattresses (from $799), and up to 50 percent off embroidered pillows, laundry baskets and chrome candelabras (from $20).
MARSTON & LANGINGER
117 Mercer St., near Spring St., (212) 965-0434
Sale: Through Jan. 31
Open: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Up to 75 percent off garden-chic items. Stone-top dining tables (now $3,498), silver planters (now $19 to $149) and oak-block display racks (now $620).
MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS
210 Lafayette St., at One Kenmare Square, (212) 431-2575
Sale: Through Jan. 27
Up to 40 percent off selected floor samples including platform beds, ottomans and sofas. The Marlena chair, $895 (reg. $1,560).
MUJI
455 Broadway (btw Grand and Howard streets), (212) 334-2002
Sale: Ongoing
Hours: Mon. to Sat., 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun.,11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
We love Muji because it's stylish and cheap. And now it's even cheaper, with accessories, household items and more reduced by 30 percent.
If you'd like to have your event or sale listed, please e-mail relevant information to jceaser@nypost.com.
Posted by Jennifer Ceaser on 03:53 PM | Comments (0)
January 21, 2008
Beltway embellishments
David Mamet is back on Broadway with his new play "November" -- a biting take on the state of the nation. Starring Tony Award-winner Nathan Lane as a corrupt incumbent President on his way out of office, the piece will no doubt draw crowds of politically-minded theater types.
Even if White House satires aren't really your thing, it could be worth your while to swing by for some design ideas. The play's Oval Office set was put together by Tony Award-winning set designer Scott Pask, and while you probably won't be moving into the West Wing anytime soon, there's no reason you can't incorporate a few presidential touches into your own home.
For example, celebrity designer John Barman has created some Oval Office-inspired home libraries that are stunning in their understated simplicity and elegance. With a few tips, you can recreate this look on your own.
The main colors you should stick with are, of course, red, white and blue, Barman notes. Then on top of that he suggests adding colors like yellow and gold.
As for furniture, you'll want nothing but good old American Federalist -- so clear out that chrome and leather Modern chair.
Add in a few last patriotic touches (Barman finished one such library with red-and-white striped curtains, for example), and you've got yourself quite the star-spangled reading room.
"It's a classic look," Barman says. "It can be updated, but not much. When it's done right, it's very beautiful." -- Jennifer Gould Keil
Posted by Adam Bonislawski on 05:53 PM | Comments (0)
January 18, 2008
The weekly wrap-up
This week we learned that...
... The world's most phallic building is once again running on time. [NY Times]
... There's a new luxury condo listing coming onto the market in Philly.
... 15 Union Square West is oh-so-exclusive. Or, maybe not. [Curbed]
... This might be why this sort of thing keeps happening. [NY Sun]
... Somebody is a little worked up over the housing bubble. [NY Observer]
... It's a good thing the days of crazy home loans are over. Oh, wait... never mind. [Newsday]
... For luxury living, it's hard to beat a trailer in Bushwick. [NYSh*tty]
... You probably shouldn't expect your Wall Street buddies to pick up the check anymore. [The Real Deal] -- Adam Bonislawski
Posted by Adam Bonislawski on 12:26 PM | Comments (0)
January 17, 2008
Open season
Our favorite open houses this week:
345 E. 81st St., Upper East Side, $995,000
Sunday, noon to 2 p.m.
As you might have heard, once you move to the Upper East Side you've got roughly a calender year to start popping out babies, or else the local community board will drive you back below 14th Street. It makes sense, then, to buy a place with room to grow -- like this convertible three-bedroom co-op, for example. In addition to plenty of space, this unit comes with new oak wood strip floors, a private outdoor balcony, abundant closets and the conveniences of a full-service building.
790 Riverside Dr., Washington Heights, $1.375 million
Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
There's prewar and then there's really prewar. Dating back to 1910, this classic seven retains old-school details like high ceilings and picture and crown moldings. That's not to say that a bit of today hasn't crept into the place, however. Take, for instance, the recently renovated kitchen, complete with modern touches like professional-grade appliances, granite counters and cherry cabinetry. And then there's a feature that buyers of any era can appreciate -- no co-op board approval is required.
55 Ave. C, East Village, $800,000
Sunday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
"Lowest maintenance on the planet," says the broker listing for this two-bedroom. That's almost certainly not true (for example, there's this place.) Still, at $300 a month, it is fabulously cheap by New York City standards, and for your money you'll get exposed brick, hardwood floors and a washer/dryer in the apartment.
240 Richardson St., Williamsburg, $539,000
Sunday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Leaving aside the fact that Richardson Street is in no way "the heart of Williamsburg" (everyone knows it's actually much closer to the gall bladder), $600 a square foot isn't a bad price for the area. This one-bedroom features a loft-like open floorplan, floor-to-ceiling windows and design touches like walnut kitchen cabinets and oversized baths with rainfall showerheads.
247 E. 49th St., Turtle Bay, $3,000 a month
Sunday, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Who wouldn't want to live on landmarked block called Katherine Hepburn Way? This floor-through one-bedroom in a prewar townhouse comes with a renovated galley kitchen and details like exposed brick, oak strip flooring and two fireplaces. If you're looking for a home office to go with your new pad, there's a separate, Internet-outfitted room upstairs that's available, as well. And if you need a place right now, you're in luck -- "immediate occupancy," says the online listing. -- Adam Bonislawski
Posted by Adam Bonislawski on 03:51 PM | Comments (0)
