535 West End Avenue Takes Shape

Billing itself as "21st Century prewar residences", 535 West End Avenue, an Extell development, is taking shape. Assuming that the slogan does not portend another war around the corner, I think all is good.

In seriousness, this development is quite intriguing. Perhaps drawing from the success of Robert A.M. Stern with modern classics like 15 CPW and The Brompton, Extell looks like it is going all out to emulate a degree of quality and luxury from a different (better) age. If the website is any indication, it sure looks like a prewar, yet it mixes in modern amenities in demand like a pool, fitness center, and lounge. The other huge plus is that you can live this prewar lifestyle, without having to deal with a crusty old coop board.

I'm not a West Sider, but if I was, given my lust for prewar, this would be well worth a look.