Skyline rendering of The XI via DBOX for HFZ Capital Group
Starchitect Bjarke Ingels has described the High Line as an “ambition enhancer” for architects. Judging by the buildings that have gone up or are under construction, the likes of Frank Gehry, Jeanne Gang, Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, Thomas Heatherwick, and Jean Nouvel would agree with that.
However, the most distinct and recognizable addition to the West Chelsea skyline is The XI, a two-building development designed by Ingels and developed by HFZ Capital Group. The east tower, known as No. X, just topped out at 300 feet and 26 stories high. Its 87 condos with interiors by Gilles et Boissier will start on the 11th floor above a 137-room Six Senses Hotel, the first in the United States.
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Top of No. X via CityRealty
(l-r) Ziel Feldman, Neil Jacobs, and Bjarke Ingels speak at the topping-out ceremony. (Image via CityRealty)
The topping out ceremony marks the latest milestone for The XI: The top of No. X could be seen from the 31st floor of No. I, the west tower, which topped out at 400 feet high last September and has much of its façade in place. The 149 condos in this all-residential tower will start on the fifth floor and boast interiors by Gabellini Sheppard Associates.
Residents of both towers will enjoy unsurpassed views of the midtown skyline, the downtown skyline, the High Line, Hudson Yards, and the Hudson River. Ingels observes that “with the High Line on one side and the Hudson River on the other, you need large windows,” and nods to the neighborhood’s history with punched floor-to-ceiling windows winding their way up the buildings. But in an increasingly crowded area, big windows alone are no guarantee of good views. That’s where the sculptural towers come in, twisting away from each other to allow for 360-degree vistas.
Aerial view of The XI via Evan Joseph
“As an architect, you speak for the building design until the building can speak for itself. But when we open this building, I won’t say a word.” – Bjarke Ingels
Interior rendering via DBOX for HFZ Capital Group
Sky bridge via DBOX for HFZ Capital Group
Inside the buildings, all apartments will boast soaring ceilings, abundant light, and luxurious finishes. A double-height bridge will connect both buildings and host a library bar with retractable screen, social lounge spaces, a dining and wine-tasting room, teen lounge, and playroom. Residents will be welcomes by a private port-cochere, and a courtyard designed by Enzo Enea will provide a welcome oasis from the bustle of the High Line above.
Pool rendering via DBOX for HFZ Capital Group
Additionally, residents will have access to the 75-foot glass-enclosed pool, steam rooms and saunas, fitness center, spa services, and other wellness offerings of Six Senses New York. Owners will also have preferred access to its two restaurants, access to hotel services like housekeeping, valet parking, and laundry, and special privileges at Six Senses Hotels around the world. Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses Hotels, reveals that he had turned down past offers to open in New York. However, this location and project speak to everything Six Senses believes in.
The rest of 2019 promises to be an exciting time for The XI. The courtyard is expected to open over the summer, and completion is anticipated for the end of the year. Sales officially launched last fall, and current availabilities range from a one-bedroom for $2.575 million to a five-bedroom penthouse for $28 million.
Rendering via DBOX for HFZ Capital Group
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