Great NYC Apartment Buildings: 1355 First Avenue (The Charles) vs. 524 East 72nd Street (The Belaire)

1355 First Avenue (The Charles) vs. 524 East 72nd Street (The Belaire): Two fine examples of how Lenox Hill and the blocks to its east are heating up for apartment buyers in search of location, space and value.

With its tall glass window walls, a limestone base and sleek angles, the Charles at 1355 First Avenue is a standout among a generation of new luxury condominium towers planned for the area around and to the east of Third Avenue. Formerly somewhat off the beaten path for developers, the area has long been a residential sweet spot on the Upper East Side for those seeking more value. The area’s one achilles heel, steps-away subway access, will disappear when the 2nd Avenue subway is complete (scheduled for 2016), while area treasures like Carl Schurz Park and the East River will remain selling points.

This 32-story condominium tower consists of full-floor and multi-floor units, perfect for families and anyone seeking plenty of space. A penthouse here recently entered contract for $37.94 million, and the building’s apartments represent an impressive level of luxury overall. Interiors by David Collins Studio of London include private elevator landings, exquisite kitchens and baths, four-zone HVAC, radiant heat and automated control systems. Designed by Ismael Levya Architects, the building offers amenities like a fitness center, a residents’ lounge and 24-hour security.

Currently on the market is #12THFLR, a full-floor apartment featuring 10-foot ceilings, four exposures and stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows, four-zone HVAC, and a custom eat-in kitchen. This four-bedroom 3,140-square-foot unit is listed at $6,595,000.

Live at the Charles if:
• your New York City vision includes an architecturally stunning modern building with panoramic views and amenities for 21st-century living.
• floor-to-ceiling glass, full-floor living and jaw-dropping views get your attention.
• you don’t want to compromise on either space or luxury.
• you’re seeking a home in a classic Upper East Side residential neighborhood near many schools, Carl Schurz Park and the East River as well as Central Park and some of the city’s best shopping, restaurants and museums.

The Belaire at 524 East 72nd Street is another top choice for insiders who have long understood the value of this residential enclave near the East River. Facilities for the Hospital for Special Surgeries, including nurses’ residences and a sports medical complex, occupy the lower 14 floors of the 50-story building. On the upper floors, private residences were created in the classic style of Upper East Side Manhattan living.

With its red brick façade and distinctive terraced setbacks, the 1988 high-rise building is among the Upper East Side’s most attractive. Many of the building’s 147 apartments offer unobstructed East River, four-bridge and city views through oversized windows. Building amenities include a glass-walled fitness center with a 60-foot heated pool, a lap pool, a yoga room, a steam room and a sauna and underground valet parking. An 8,000-square-foot landscaped public plaza on East 71st Street serves as an entrance to the medical facility as well as a neighborhood gathering spot. Residents have a private entrance on a cul-de-sac on East 72nd Street.

Apartments currently on the market include #PH1A, a 2,350-square-foot two-bedroom (convertible three) penthouse with panoramic Manhattan skyline views, a wood burning fireplace, custom closets, built-in surround sound speakers and 10.5-foot-high ceilings, listed at $6,895,000.

Live at the Belaire if:
• your love affair with Manhattan includes a classic, quiet Upper East Side residential enclave near one of the city’s favorite parks and the East River.
• you love the idea of a full-service building with parking, a luxurious fitness center and outdoor space to enjoy the neighborhood.
• you prefer a unique and notable take on classic residential architecture to a glass-and-steel tower.
• you’re looking for real penthouse living with a wraparound terrace and panoramic views without paying eight figures for a “trophy” apartment.
• parking is an important perk.