Lately, in the world of high-end Manhattan real estate, marketing a project's environmental sensitivity has taken a backseat to sexier frills — even as our harmful effects on the planet grow more visible and grave. Alfa Development is one New York developer who has maintained an unwavering commitment to sustainability and "green" design. Led by Michael Namer, the firm has amassed a six-condo portfolio, known as the Green Collection, that aims to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions throughout their projects' life cycles.
The collection's latest addition, 200 East 21st Street, is now in its home stretch of construction, and like Alfa's previous ventures, aims for LEED Gold certification through specifications that include FSC-certified wood, water-conserving fixtures, and a solar-powered system that provides 60% of the building’s hot water.
In this article:
Of course, one can be eco-conscious without sacrificing style and comfort. Situated in the heart of Gramercy, not far from its namesake park (no park keys here, however), the 21-floor building hosts 67 for-sale residences with gracious layouts, beautiful finishes, and state-of-the-art systems and appliances. BKSK Architects led the building's design, whose prominent corner location is heightened by a layered facade of glass, brick and cast stone.
Occupancy is slated for later this year and craftsmen are putting in the finishing touches on the interiors. Remaining homes start at $1.395 million for a one-bedroom, $2.585 million for a two-bedroom, and $3.975 million for a three-bedroom. The listings blend into an average price per square foot of $2,105, just above the $1,903 per ft² condo average recorded in Gramercy this month. Additionally, the asking prices are below the average PPSF of new development condos in Manhattan, which came in at $2,302 per ft² according to our latest market report.
With the guidance of Alexandra Champalimaud, one goal was to provide generous spaces for entertaining, whether you are hosting a brunch with family or an evening in with friends “Modern lives rely upon serene and calming spaces for everyday living and entertaining. Every detail in these residences was thoughtfully curated with attention to how residents will want to live," says Michael Namer.
The homes feature responsibly-forested wide-plank oak flooring, oak entry doors, and eight-foot-tall wraparound bronze windows. Poliform kitchens with a matte lacquer island or peninsula have custom oak cabinetry, white sand quartzite countertops and a fully-integrated suite of Miele appliances. Select homes have built-in coffee machines, wine fridges, or electric speed ovens. En-suite master bathrooms have glass-enclosed showers, white Macedonian Sivec marble floors with radiant heating, double vanities with marble countertops.
The homes feature responsibly-forested wide-plank oak flooring, oak entry doors, and eight-foot-tall wraparound bronze windows. Poliform kitchens with a matte lacquer island or peninsula have custom oak cabinetry, white sand quartzite countertops and a fully-integrated suite of Miele appliances. Select homes have built-in coffee machines, wine fridges, or electric speed ovens. En-suite master bathrooms have glass-enclosed showers, white Macedonian Sivec marble floors with radiant heating, double vanities with marble countertops.
Last week, the project team unveiled three model residences, each designed by the premier home staging firm, IMG. Among the largest of the three model spreads is #9C, a three-bed, 3.5-bath corner home spanning 1,823 square feet and priced at $3.975M. The model is highlighted by a curated selection of artwork from Michael Namer's personal collection. Namer also happens to be an accomplished painter and is the owner/founder of Gallery 151 in Chelsea.
"Abstract Remix #4"
- Artist: Fred Brathwaite aka Fab 5 Freddy
- Medium: Acrylic & Swarovski crystals on digital printed canvas
- Gallery 151 Show: Fab 5 Freddy solo show "New York: New Work" in 2011 at Gallery 151
- Of note: There is no question that Brathwaite was a major influence throughout the height of the downtown street art movement and continues to be a fixture of influence today.
"Money"
- Artist: Angel Ortiz aka LA2
- Medium: painted canvas
- Gallery 151 Show: Group show "Green Style" in 2009 at Gallery 151
- Of note: LA2 has a long history of being featured at Gallery 151, including his appearance in Green Style, an exhibition which featured brand new works in 2009 from the artist created with environmentally friendly, low to no V.O.C paint. LA2 was also featured at FUN Gallery in a collaborative exhibition alongside Keith Haring in 1983. LA2's paint marker lines were a major influence on Haring's own work.
Amenities include a fitness center, a skylit yoga studio, and a wellness center with a spa treatment room and sauna. Residents have access to a common roof deck with lush plantings by Halsted Welles Associates which also provides natural insulation. Lastly, there is a shared lounge with a fireplace, entertaining kitchen, billiards area, and library wall with built-in flat screen TV.
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
New Developments Editor
Ondel Hylton
Ondel is a lifelong New Yorker and comprehensive assessor of the city's dynamic urban landscape.