In January 2023, Governor Hochul announced that East Harlem was New York City’s winner of the sixth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which is led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal, and the New York Energy Research and Development Authority. The $10 million funding will go toward selected projects, developed through a bottom-up community-based planning process, that will drive growth and bring new opportunities for residents and businesses.
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“By revitalizing East Harlem, we are creating a dynamic hub of economic activity that will not only drive growth but also bring new opportunities for both residents and businesses alike” – Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner, Empire State Development
The Downtown Revitalization Initiative victory is the latest highlight for the neighborhood once dubbed “El Barrio.” In 2017, a rezoning allowed for more building density and low-income housing, leading to a building boomlet. More recently, there has been progress on the long-rumored expansion of the Second Avenue subway. At the beginning of 2022, the Biden administration’s budget included a $400 million Federal Transit Administration grant toward the expansion, which would bring three new subway stops to East 106th, 116th, and 125th Streets. If everything goes according to plan, completion is estimated for 2029.
Additionally, in July 2022, the MTA announced that they were studying the possibility of extending the line further along 125th Street to create a new crosstown line with two or four more subway stations. Ideas for such a transit hub have been bandied about since 2008, when urban researchers first floated the idea, and it is now one of a few dozen proposals currently under review as the MTA evaluates how to upgrade the city’s transit system over the next 20 years. If it is among the winners chosen in October, construction would not start until 2025 at the earliest.
“When complete, the Second Avenue subway extension will reshape the fabric of our neighborhoods and all of New York City — connecting Harlem to the rest of the world” — Joint statement from Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Adriano Espaillat
Second Avenue Subway Phase II (MTA)
Greater access afforded by the Second Avenue subway extension has the potential to make East Harlem more appealing in terms of livability as well as from a financial standpoint. An analysis by Crain’s New York Business found that property values along the path of the first phase of the Second Avenue subway jumped an average of 32% after the subway opened. As East Harlem’s rezoning requires affordable housing, we may not see uber-luxury condos rising along the extension as we have in Yorkville. Nevertheless, the past few years have seen a number of new developments taking shape, some in anticipation of the extension.
East Harlem looking north from 97th Street (Compass)
Proposed
Design by Soluri Architecture
Developed by Lakshmi Capital Management LLC
11 stories | 22 units
Google Streetview of 2324 Second Avenue
In November 2022, permits were filed for a new residential building to rise on a vacant lot near the corner of East 119th Street. It is close to the 116th Street 6 train now, and will benefit from close proximity to the planned Second Avenue subway extension. The 22 units will include a penthouse, and amenities will include an elevator and rear yard. An estimated completion date is not yet available.
Design by ND Architecture & Design
Developed by 1163 Fulton Realty LLC
8 stories | 110 units
Google Streetview of 1751 Park Avenue, August 2021
In June 2022, permits were filed to expand the four-story 1751 Park Avenue into an eight-story mixed-use building with the majority of the space set for residential. It is currently used as administrative offices for Bailey House, a part of Housing Works, but there is no word on whether they will occupy the community facility component of the new building. An estimated completion date is not yet available.
104 East 120th Street
Design by Aufgang Architects
Developed by Compass Point LLC
18 stories | 57 units
104 East 120th Street (CityRealty)
In the wake of East Harlem's rezoning, a parking lot at the corner of Park Avenue and East 120th Street is set to receive a new mixed-use building with approximately 22,300 square feet of commercial space and 57 residential units, a portion of which will be affordable (h/t Patch). A rendering on the construction fence shows setbacks that could be used as common terraces, but amenity details are not yet available. What we do know, though, is that the new building will be located in excellent proximity to the 125th Street 6 and Metro-North trains.
2201 Third Avenue
Design by Gerald J. Caliendo Architects
Developer TBD
20 stories
Rendering of 2201 Third Avenue (Gerald J. Caliendo Architects)
In spring 2021, Gerald J. Caliendo Architects revealed a mockup of a new, 20-story East Harlem tower with a retail storefront, a brick and stone facade for several stories, six glass-enclosed floors, and private terraces in select units. However, the site is currently occupied by family-owned upholstery firm Lore Decorators, which has been a neighborhood fixture for more than 50 years, and permits have neither been filed for a new tower nor demolition of the existing building.
Harlem Towers
Design by Workshop/APD
Developer TBD
Harlem Towers (Workshop/APD)
At the end of 2021, designer Workshop/APD released a concept for a new East Harlem building with two towers rising from a six-story commercial podium. The facade features a mix of translucent and opaque panels, and the concept calls for residential units, amenity space, and hospitality space. An address was not provided; but based on the elevated 125th Street Metro-North station seen in the rendering, the intersection of Park Avenue and East 125th Street is most likely. It is also not known whether this is for a specific scheme or developer.
Designer TBA
Developed by The Durst Organization
Previous rendering of 1800 Park Avenue via ODA Architecture
In September 2016, The Durst Organization purchased a development site on the corner of Park Avenue and East 125th Street for $91 million. Previous owner Continuum Company imagined a 32-story, 673-unit residential tower with commercial and community space, but Durst plans to create an entirely new plan and design. It is worth noting that because Continuum had begun foundation work before the 421-a tax abatement program expired, the project is still eligible for tax breaks.
As the site is located within the city’s Special Transit Land Use District, along with The Durst Organization's additional development sites at 1801 and 1815 Park Avenue, construction cannot proceed without certification from the MTA and the city’s Planning Commission. Certification is supposed to be done within 60 days, but after waiting more than five years, the Durst Organization sued the MTA in November 2021.
As the site is located within the city’s Special Transit Land Use District, along with The Durst Organization's additional development sites at 1801 and 1815 Park Avenue, construction cannot proceed without certification from the MTA and the city’s Planning Commission. Certification is supposed to be done within 60 days, but after waiting more than five years, the Durst Organization sued the MTA in November 2021.
Design by Perkins Eastman
Developed by AvalonBay Communities
68 stories | 1,200 units
Rendering of 321 East 96th Street via AvalonBay Communities
If everything goes according to plan, this 760-foot-tall new development on the cusp of the Upper East Side and East Harlem will be the tallest building north of 60th Street. Roughly 30 percent of the apartments (or over 300 units) are to be permanently affordable, and the project will also bring two new schools, 20,000 square feet of retail space, a new public park, and a new playground to the area. However, the Marx Brothers Playground sits at the center of the site, and some advocates argue that it is not a playground for the nearby school, but a city park. If the commissioner of state parks rules that it is the latter, any plans for the land may not go through without approval from the State Legislature and governor. In November 2020, the First Department of the New York Supreme Court ruled in favor of the developer.
Design by ARC Architecture + Design Studio
Developed by 2252 Third Avenue LLC
20 stories | 69 units
Rendering of 2252 Third Avenue via ARC Architecture + Design
In the wake of the East Harlem rezoning, 2252 Third Avenue's former 4.0 floor-to-area ratio (FAR) and 85' maximum building height jumped to a 10.0 FAR and 235' maximum height. A rendering shows oversized windows and private balconies, and amenities are set to include a bike room and two lounges. Permits for the new building were filed in February 2019, and demolition permits for the three-story department store previously on the site were filed in November 2019.
Design by SRA Architecture + Engineering
Developed by Park-It Management
14 stories | 80 units
Google Streetview of 213 East 125th Street
The two-story commercial property previously on-site at 213 East 125th Street has been demolished, and work is underway on a new mixed-use building. Permits call for two stories of commercial space, a third-floor community facility, and apartments starting on the fourth floor.
242 East 106th Street
Design by Think! Architecture and Design
Developed by Ascendant and The Community Builders
10 stories | 250 units
Rendering of 244 East 106th Street (Ascendant)
In November 2020, Manhattan's Community Board 11 heard a proposal for a new supportive housing building at 244 East 106th Street, which is currently a vacant lot. The building would be run by Ali Fourney Center, the nation's largest organization devoted to helping homeless LGBTQ youths, and offer a total of five apartments, each containing four to eight separate bedrooms.
However, when permits were filed in August 2022, they showed new plans for the space. They call for 250 units with 75 set aside for households that have experienced homelessness. Moreover, as the new building would be constructed at the back of the East Harlem Multi-Service Building, the non-profit's space will be renovated expanded.
However, when permits were filed in August 2022, they showed new plans for the space. They call for 250 units with 75 set aside for households that have experienced homelessness. Moreover, as the new building would be constructed at the back of the East Harlem Multi-Service Building, the non-profit's space will be renovated expanded.
Typical apartment's living area
Castle III
107-111 East 123rd Street
Design by Curtis + Ginsberg Architects
Developed by Ascendant
15 stories | 82 units
Rendering of Castle III (Curtis + Ginsberg Architects)
At the same meeting where Manhattan Community Board 11 heard the proposal for 244 East 106th Street (see above), Ascendant also presented a proposal for a new project on Park Avenue and East 123rd Street that would be operated by The Fortune Society, a non-profit that helps the formerly incarcerated re-enter society. This building will be 100 percent affordable, with 60 percent of units reserved for homeless, formerly incarcerated people, 10 percent reserved for formerly homeless people, and the remainder open to New Yorkers earning between 30 and 60 percent of the area median income. In order for this project to take shape, the city would need to grant a special zoning permit to allow for greater density.
58-62 East 125th Street
Designer TBA
Developed by Brukha Assets
25 stories
Google Streetview of 58-62 East 125th Street
In June 2021, a rezoning was proposed so as to allow a 25-story, 245-foot-tall hotel tower to rise on the empty lot at 58-62 East 125th Street. Its proximity to Marcus Garvey Park, popular Harlem restaurants, and public transportation make it an appealing location. However, before construction can proceed, the rat-infested site must be cleaned up -- a judge granted the city's urgent request to do so in January 2022.
132 East 125th Street
Design by Aufgang Architects
Developed by Maddd Equities
9 stories
Rendering of 132 East 125th Street (Aufgang Architects)
As Crain's New York Business reports, developer Maddd Equities is hard at work on plans for a 100,000-square-foot commercial project on the corner of East 125th Street and Lexington Avenue. Founder and CEO Jorge Madruga says he sees schools and medical firms as the likeliest tenants for the project, which will also include retail and community space.
Coming Soon
Design by Daniel Goldner Architects and GF55 Architects
Developed by Atlantic Development Group
12 stories | 185 units
No current availabilities
Rendering via Atlantic Development Group
When the Second Avenue subway extension is complete, 1998 Second Avenue will be well positioned to take advantage of it. Behind the brick facade, all units come with oversized windows, kitchens with quartz countertops and Bosch and Blomberg appliances, baths with rain showerheads, in-unit washer/dryers, and free storage and bike rack. Amenities include an attended lobby, a media/screening room, a fitness center, a 12th-floor lounge, and a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, 17-foot LED TV, barbecue areas, and table seating.
1691 Madison Avenue
Design by Handel Architects
Developed by Jonathan Rose Companies, L+M Development, and Acacia Network
37 stories | 709 affordable units
Rendering of Sendero Verde via Handel Architects
When Sendero Verde is complete, it will be the largest fully affordable Passive House project in the world. The project will be surrounded by green space and gardens, and the design by Handel Architects will incorporate triple-glazed windows, mechanically ventilated spaces with energy recovery, airtight construction methods to reduce draft and energy loss, and individually heated and cooled units. In addition to over 700 units of affordable housing, the project will bring a new school with full gymnasium, community space for the Harlem Children's Zone and Union Settlement Association, new office and retail space, community gardens, and an 18,000-square-foot courtyard with a children’s play area, adult outdoor exercise equipment, seating areas, and a performance stage to the neighborhood. Construction on the first of three phases was completed in December 2022, and construction on the second phase is underway.
Design by GF55 Architects
Developed by 126th Street Equities LLC
18 stories | 152 units
Rendering of 82 East 127th Street (GF55 Architects)
A vacant lot between Park and Madison Avenues is set to get a new mixed-use building with a "sports/athletic store" on the first floor and 101 new housing units (most likely rentals) starting on the fourth floor. Residential amenities are set to include a bike room, a package room, a central laundry room, a fitness room, lounges, outdoor terraces on the third and eighteenth floors, private storage on every floor, and a rooftop terrace. An estimated completion date is not yet available.
Summer 2022 (CityRealty)
212 East 125th Street
Design by ND Architecture
Developed by The Hakimian Organization, Certes Partners, and Red Pine Capital Partners
12 stories | 113 units
Rendering of 212 East 125th Street via ND Architecture
On the corner of East 125th Street and Third Avenue, work is underway on a two-building rental development connected by a rear yard and one-story building. Renderings show oversized windows, and permits indicate that amenities will include a bike room, storage, mail and package rooms, a conference room, and lounges.
When The Enclave was announced in November 2019, Patch noted that it was luxury developer Hakimian Organization's first foray above 96th Street. A percentage of units are expected to be affordable, but details are not yet available. A site visit in spring 2022 saw that the building facing East 124th Street has topped out, and that the building facing East 125th Street is on the way up.
When The Enclave was announced in November 2019, Patch noted that it was luxury developer Hakimian Organization's first foray above 96th Street. A percentage of units are expected to be affordable, but details are not yet available. A site visit in spring 2022 saw that the building facing East 124th Street has topped out, and that the building facing East 125th Street is on the way up.
2033 Fifth Avenue
Design by Frida Escobedo in partnership with Handel Architects
Developed by Ray and L&M Development Partners
20 stories | 222 units
Rendering of Ray Harlem (Ray)
It's a tale as old as time - a beloved theater gets bought by a real estate developer - but the story of the National Black Theater, the country's oldest Black theater owned and operated by a Black woman, has a happy ending. A key component of the new building is a permanent, state-of-the-art home for the theater. The multi-floor space will include a 250-seat flexible temple space, a 99-seat studio theater, classrooms, and offices.
In addition to the new theater, the building will offer retail space, a community space dubbed the Living Room, and 222 studio through two-bedroom units. Developer Ray, which prides itself on residential spaces "at the intersection of art and culture, community, and accessible pricing," is working with the theater on an Artist Housing Initiative that will create better access to housing for local artists and creatives. Construction has commenced, and completion is estimated for spring 2024.
In addition to the new theater, the building will offer retail space, a community space dubbed the Living Room, and 222 studio through two-bedroom units. Developer Ray, which prides itself on residential spaces "at the intersection of art and culture, community, and accessible pricing," is working with the theater on an Artist Housing Initiative that will create better access to housing for local artists and creatives. Construction has commenced, and completion is estimated for spring 2024.
1295 Fifth Avenue
Design by Gruzen & Partners
Developed by Quintet NYC
35 stories | 600 units
Two- to three-beds from $3,400 - $4,100/month
Rendering of The Heritage (Compass)
The Heritage, a three-building complex distinguished by its octagonal towers, has made a statement at the junction of Fifth Avenue and Central Park North since the mid-1970s. However, work is underway to bring the buildings into the 21st century: The exteriors are being repainted and upgraded, and the apartments' interiors were recently renovated with light oak finish floors, quartz countertops and backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and Grohe fixtures and bath faucets. There is a NYC Fresh Market grocery store on-site, and residential amenities include an attended lobby, on-site management, Amazon Hub package lockers, covered parking (for an additional fee), a state-of-the-art fitness center, resident lounge, co-working space, and a landscaped outdoor space.
Work on The Heritage (CityRealty)
Design by ARC Architecture + Design Studio
Developed by Roy Moussaeiff
6 stories | 12 units
221 East 117th Street (ARC Architecture + Design Studio)
As construction winds down on 221 East 117th Street, a housing lottery for four rent-stabilized units is in effect (criteria and deadline here). Renderings show private balconies in many units, and all interiors will feature hardwood floors, high-end kitchen appliances and finishes, central air conditioning, and in-unit washer/dryers. This elevator building is located between Thomas Jefferson Park and Marcus Garvey Park, and in excellent proximity to local restaurants and transportation.
Design by ARC Architecture + Design Studio
Developed by A&R Properties Group
8 stories | 25 units
Rendering of 1650 Madison Avenue (A&R Properties Group)
In fall 2022, construction topped out at 20 East 110th Street, a new mixed-use building set to bring 3,000 square feet of retail space, 7,000 square feet of community space, and 25 new housing units to East Harlem. Renderings show a planted rooftop and private terraces in select units, and permits indicate that amenities will include a bike room and laundry room. Completion is estimated for spring 2024.
1638 Park Avenue
Design by Marin Architects
Developed by Affect Property Group
10 stories | 24 units
1638 Park Avenue, summer 2022 (CityRealty)
On an empty lot across from the Urban Garden Center, construction is in the works for a new 10-story building on the corner of Park Avenue and East 116th Street. The finished product will yield 1,476 square feet of retail space and 17,235 square feet of residential space (most likely rentals). Permits were filed in December 2021, but a completion date is not yet available.
128 East 112th Street
Design by PM Architecture
Developed by Acacia Network
7 stories | 57 units
(l-r) Rendering of Virginia Arms (PM Architecture); construction work (CityRealty)
Virginia House has stood vacant for years, but is in the midst of an enlargement and renovation to Passive House standards; as such, it will incorporate exterior and interior insulation, triple-glazed windows, and ERV units. Amenities are set to include a recreation room, computer room, laundry room, and outdoor recreation area with spaces for planting. The property has a restrictive covenant for senior housing, and the renovation is being funded by the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Senior Affordable Rental Apartments (SARA) Program.
Design by DXA Studio
Developed by Round Square Development
8 stories | 93 units
(l-r) 1975 Madison before (image via Robert Y/Yelp) and after (rendering via officespace.com)
Metropolitan Community United Methodist Church's Gothic architecture and stained glass windows have been a fixture of East Harlem since 1871, but the infrastructure is decidedly not up to today's standards and codes. Because of that, the church's leadership struck a deal to sell the property to a developer. The new building to rise on the site will include a community space (possibly to be used as a new sanctuary), 93 residential units, and amenities like a bike room, on-site parking, a lounge, a package room, and a roof deck. A listing for the development site notes that it is vested in the “421-a” / Affordable Housing New York program as of May 2022.
Design by S. Wieder Architects
Developer unknown
17 stories | 101 units
Renderings of 185 East 109th Street (S. Wieder Architects)
In January 2022, designer S. Wieder Architects presented new renderings of their East Harlem project on their Instagram page. They depict a sleek tower with a multi-toned facade, setbacks allowing for terraces, and corner balconies.
Upon completion, the new tower will offer ground-floor retail, 101 new housing units, and such amenities as a fitness center, business center, bike room, and indoor pool with access to an outdoor sun deck. Demolition permits for the four-story building previously on-site were filed in September 2021, but a completion date has not yet been provided.
Upon completion, the new tower will offer ground-floor retail, 101 new housing units, and such amenities as a fitness center, business center, bike room, and indoor pool with access to an outdoor sun deck. Demolition permits for the four-story building previously on-site were filed in September 2021, but a completion date has not yet been provided.
Manhattan Greenway Harlem River Esplanade
Design by Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners
Developed by NYC EDC
Renderings of the Manhattan Greenway Harlem River Esplanade (Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners)
This year, construction is expected to begin on a new seven-acre park along the Harlem River. In addition to bringing new public art, playgrounds, picnic and barbecue areas, and new pedestrian and bike pathways to the waterfront, the park will bring new connections to the Manhattan Greenway from East Harlem, the South Bronx, and Randall's Island. It also brings the city closer to the goal of creating a continuous, 32-mile loop around Manhattan island.
In August 2022, Mayor Adams announced that the city had received a $7.25 million federal grant to plan for new greenways such as this. Completion is estimated for 2025.
In August 2022, Mayor Adams announced that the city had received a $7.25 million federal grant to plan for new greenways such as this. Completion is estimated for 2025.
2226 Third Avenue
Design by DXA Studio
Developed by The Rinaldi Group
10 stories
Rendering of 2226 Third Avenue (The Rinaldi Group)
The life sciences industry has been on the rise in the city over the past decade, and rose to new prominence in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Among the new projects is a a new, 145-foot-tall life sciences building on the corner of Third Avenue and East 121st Street. Renderings depict a gridded corium brick and a metal panel façade with deeply-inset 'VIEW Smart Glass Windows.' Upon completion, it will deliver 160,345 square feet of space catering to biotech start-ups and feature high ceilings, structurally robust floor slabs, and green roofs. Construction commenced in December 2021, and completion is estimated for the end of this year or early 2024.
Harlem Headquarters (HHQ)
HHQ renderings via Gensler
For its first Upper Manhattan office project, Extell purchased the former home of a Pathmark supermarket for $39 million and the neighboring post office for $10 million in 2014. The building known as HHQ is one of Harlem's first new office buildings, and the design was inspired by the vibrancy of the surrounding neighborhood. Features and amenities will include 12' ceilings, customizable layouts, MERV-14 air filters, two private entrances, bike room, locker rooms, showers, and private terraces on floors 7-9. Commercial Observer notes that potential retail tenants include drugstores, pharmacies, grocers, and restaurants.
East 126th Street Bus Depot Memorial & Mixed-Use Project
Designer TBA
Developed by New York City Economic Development Council and New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development
780 units
Image via NYC Department of Buildings
In July 2017, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development completed the environmental review of a full-block site on First Avenue and East 126th Street. The former bus depot is expected to contain an outdoor memorial and indoor cultural center for the historic African Burial Ground, approximately 315,000 square feet of commercial space (both office and retail), and approximately 730 housing units, 50 percent of which are to be permanently affordable to households earning at or below 80 percent of the area median income.
East River Plaza Towers
517 East 117th Street
Designer TBA
Developed by Forest City Ratner Cos. and Blumenfeld Development Group
1,100 units
Rendering via TEN Arquitectos
In 2014, Forest City Ratner Companies and Blumenfeld Development Group announced plans for residential towers on top of East River Plaza, a shopping center which counts Target and Costco among its anchor tenants. Renderings show three towers connected by two skybridges and perched on two podiums atop the existing mall and parking garage. The residences within, 25 percent of which will be affordable, are assured of spectacular river and city views. The site is already zoned to allow for residential use, but a special permit used to build the mall means the project must go through the city's ULURP process.
Now Selling/Leasing
1790 Third Avenue
Design by IBI Group-Gruzen Samton
Developed by 1790 LLC
13 stories | 52 units | Completed 2019
One-beds from $660K - $750K
All images of The Cereza via Reuveni Real Estate
Located on the cusp of the Upper East Side and East Harlem, The Cereza is the tallest building on its Third Avenue block. All units feature floor-to-ceiling windows, open kitchens with Bosch stainless steel appliances, thoughtfully designed baths, and in-unit washer/dryer. Residential amenities include a virtual doorman, a common roof deck with panoramic city views, bike storage, and storage available for purchase. The building's name comes from the Spanish word for "cherry," and it is a short walk from Cherry Hill Playground, El Barrio's Artspace PS109, Mount Sinai Hospital, and the 96th Street Q subway stop.
1399 Park Avenue
Design by Hill West
Developed by Heritage Real Estate Partners
22 stories | 72 units | Completed in 2019
Studios to three-beds from $699K - $1.689M
While hardly soaring by the standards of Billionaires' Row supertalls, 1399 Park nevertheless makes a statement on the East Harlem skyline. The apartments inside feature a variety of floor plans, and all units boast interiors by Whitehall Interiors, sound-attenuated floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, kitchens with marble countertops and stainless steel appliances, and spa-like marble baths. An amenity suite offering a lounge, library with fireplace, fitness center, billiards room, outdoor terrace with grilling stations, and playroom with climbing walls and a ball pit was quick to set new standards for the neighborhood.
159 East 118th Street
Design by ARC Architecture & Design Studio
Developed by 159 NYC LLC
6 stories | 12 units | Completed in 2022
One- to two-beds from $599K - $999K
The Oslo (ARC Architecture & Design Studio)
(Corcoran)
While much of East Harlem's building boom has been fueled by new rentals and high-rise condos, there is room for boutique development, as seen at The Oslo. The vast majority of units have private outdoor space, and all interiors feature large picture windows, red oak floors, open kitchens with quartz countertops and high-end appliances, well-appointed baths, and generous closet space. Amenities include a fitness center, a bike room, a common roof deck, and storage for purchase.
181 East 101st Street
Design by Workshop DA
Developed by Wonder Works
9 stories | 71 units
Studios through three-beds from $535K - $1.195M
Huxley (Serhant)
Closings commenced in spring 2022 at Huxley, the new condominium that rose on the former site of the Church of the Holy Agony. The building's design features an energy-efficient rain screen and oversized, high-performance windows, and many units have private outdoor space. All interiors feature airy living space, pristine wide plank oak floors, kitchens with sleek Marami Scala terrazzo countertops and custom Alta Cucine cabinetry, primary bedrooms with custom built-in wardrobe cabinets, luxe primary baths, and washer/dryer hookups. Amenities include part-time doorman service, a mailroom, a package room, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a lounge, and a roof terrace with a BBQ grill and open city views.
201 East 125th Street
Design by Bjarke Ingels Group
Developed by Blumenfeld Development Group
11 stories | 233 units | Completed in 2020
Studios through two-beds from $2,815 - $5,150/month
(l-r) Exterior photo via Blumenfeld Development Group; interiors via NOISE
In the wake of such eye-catching creations as One High Line and VIA 57 West, celebrity architect Bjarke Ingels embraced East Harlem with The Smile, which was named in honor of the gracefully curved facade that has transformed its blockfront. All units feature minimalist aesthetics, exposed concrete details, floor-to-ceiling windows, touchless entry systems, oversized closets, open kitchens, and in-unit washer/dryers. The impressive amenity suite features a state-of-the-art fitness center with yoga and personal training rooms; a spa with hammam, sauna and steam rooms, and color-changing LED salt room; a spacious co-working studio; a lounge and game room with wet bar; and a landscaped rooftop terrace with pool, three whirlpools, grilling and dining areas, and outdoor screening area.
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201 East 125th Street
Design by S9 Architecture
Developed by The Richman Group, Bridges Development Group, and Monadnock Development
19 stories | 404 rental units
No current availabilities
Rendering of One East Harlem via S9 Architecture
On the corner of East 125th Street, a former MTA bus depot has been transformed into a new mixed-use development. One East Harlem, the sizable project at the heart of it, is surrounded by 10,000 square feet of public open space and houses 65,000 square feet of retail space, a new Food Bazaar supermarket that opened in September 2022, and a new home for Groove with Me, an organization offering free dance classes and performance opportunities to young girls. All residents enjoy access to amenities that include a fitness center, business center, roof deck, bike room, and on-site parking.
Design by ARC Architecture + Design Studio
Developed by A&R Properties Group
8 stories | 14 units
1661 Madison Avenue (Housing Connect)
Up the street from 1650 Madison Avenue (see above), a housing lottery for five rent-stabilized one-bedroom units (details and criteria here) is in effect at 1661 Madison Avenue, a slim new mixed-use building with oversized windows throughout and, as permits indicate, only two units per floor. The building will welcome pets and offer amenities like virtual doorman service, a central laundry room, bike storage, and a roof terrace.
1520 Park Avenue
Design by Karl Fischer Architects
Developed by Isaac Schwartz
12 stories | 44 units
One- to two-beds from $3,395 - $5,445/month
Rendering of 1520 Park Avenue via Karl Fischer Architect
Interiors (The Corcoran Group)
On the northwest corner of Park Avenue and East 111th Street, leasing has just launched at The Pearl on the Park. Permits filed in 2014 call for a community facility, commercial space, and 44 residential units on top. All units feature open layouts, central heating and air conditioning, in-unit washer/dryers, kitchens with polished quartz countertops and designer appliances, and baths with Hansgrohe fixtures. A part-time doorman is on staff, and amenities include a gym, coworking lounge, bike storage, package room, and roof deck.
1956 First Avenue
Developed by L+M Development and Invesco Real Estate
7 stories | 12 units | Completed in 2020
One- through four-beds from $2,400 - $4,265/month
When The Crossing was first built in the 1980s, it was known as the River Crossing and part of the Mitchell-Lama affordable housing program (it has since been removed). When L+M Development and Invesco Real Estate bought the property in 2019, they agreed to preserve the affordable housing units for an additional 40 years as part of the PACT program, which was devised to bring repairs and renovations to NYCHA communities through a partnership with private and non-profit development partners.
The apartments have been refurbished with light oak flooring, kitchens with custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, baths with Grohe faucets and fixtures. New amenities include the services of an on-site building manager, an urban farm, a dog run, and landscaped outdoor recreation, fitness, and children’s play areas.
The apartments have been refurbished with light oak flooring, kitchens with custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, baths with Grohe faucets and fixtures. New amenities include the services of an on-site building manager, an urban farm, a dog run, and landscaped outdoor recreation, fitness, and children’s play areas.
The Crossing (Quintet NYC)
2282 Second Avenue
Design by ARC Architecture + Design Studio
Developed by Blumenfeld Development Group
7 stories | 12 units | Completed in 2020
No current availabilities
All renderings of Michael East via Compass
The Michael East is a new East Harlem rental offering a contemporary aesthetic and condo-quality finishes. Only two units per floor allow for excellent privacy, and all apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows, 9' ceilings, oak floors, central air, recessed LED lighting, video intercoms, in-unit washer/dryers, and designer kitchens. Several units have private balconies, and all residents have access to a common roof deck with panoramic city views. The building is a short walk from East Harlem Plaza, popular local restaurants, the M15 bus route, and the 116th Street 6 subway stop.
Design by Karim Rashid
Developed by HAP Investments
8 stories | 20 units | Completed in 2017
Studio to two-beds from $2,512 - $3,800/month
All renderings of 329 Pleasant Avenue via HAP Investments
The finished product at 329 Pleasant Avenue was significantly toned down from its original colorful design, yet still stands as one of New York's brightest buildings. All units feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek kitchens, in-unit washer/dryers, and private balconies. A common roof garden looks out on panoramic views of Manhattan, and the building is well situated near the East River Plaza shopping center, public and private schools, and First Avenue dining.
1465 Park Avenue
Design by Curtis + Ginsberg
Developed by Tahl Propp Equities and L+M Development Partners
15 stories | 400 units | Completed in 2020
Rendering of The Carolina via Curtis + Ginsberg
The Carolina is a massive new development housing 38,000 square feet of community space, 3,200 square feet of commercial space, and 400 affordable housing units. All apartments feature large closets, dishwashers, and stainless steel energy-efficient appliances. Amenities include landscaped courtyards, a bike room, parking, a fitness center, roof terraces, on-site laundry, and package lockers. A lottery took place at the end of 2019.
Cooke School & Institute
1713 Madison Avenue
Design by PBDW Architects
Developed by Cooke School & Institute
4 stories | Completed in 2020
Rendering of Cooke School & Institute via PBDW Architects
Across the street from the site of Sendero Verde (see above), Cooke School & Institute recently wound down construction on a new state-of-the-art facility providing education and services for students aged 5-21 with developmental disabilities. The grammar, middle, and high schools have been combined into one facility, yet each maintain their own separate identity and circulation. Shared spaces like the gym, cafeteria, creative arts classroom, and administrative offices are on the lower floors, and the upper three floors create separate vertical campuses. Amenities include a music/performance space, outdoor art and science labs, and a rooftop playground/garden.
225 East 126th Street
Design by VOA
Developed by Murphy McManus
3 stories | Completed in 2018
Rendering of New York Proton Center via VOA
Proton beam therapy has shown immense promise in destroying cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, but high construction costs, high energy requirements, and heavy machinery have long precluded easy construction in New York. However, between a consortium of New York's leading cancer treatment providers and the use of below-market electricity from the state’s power authority, this center offering cutting-edge therapy is now the anchor tenant in E125, a new development including One East Harlem (see above).
Salvation Army
175 East 125th Street
Design by Peter Poons Architects
Developed by The Salvation Army
12 stories | 233 supportive housing units | Completed in 2020
Rendering via Salvation Army
When the Salvation Army announced its plans to sell its Williams Memorial Residence (720 West End Avenue) to pay for a new building on the corner of Third Avenue and East 125th Street, the news was met with opposition from residents and elected officials alike. However, the city approved both the $108 million sale and plans to demolish the Salvation Army’s existing East Harlem building to make way for this new one. The first two levels of the new building include a recreation center and church. Third-floor amenities include more offices as well as fitness rooms, café, library, and meeting rooms for residents; apartments start on the fourth floor. Residents also have access to a basement-level basketball court and laundry room as well as a rooftop dining hall.
Design by Daniel Goldner Architects
Developed by HAP Investments
9 stories | 30 units | Completed in 2020
One- to two-beds from $2,491 - $2,842/month
Photo via HAP Investments
In a 2018 interview with CityRealty, HAP Investments CEO and Co-founder Eran Polack hailed East Harlem for the ability to build quality projects with top amenities for less and its proximity to public transportation. To that end, the company is at the helm of a new boutique rental on the corner of Second Avenue and East 120th Street. All apartments will feature modern finishes, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and excellent light. The building will offer a courtyard, lounge, laundry room, bike room, and easy access to the Metro North and 4/5/6 stations.
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