Gramercy Park is a quiet Manhattan neighborhood just off Union Square and the famed East Village areas. It is known for its brownstone and tree-lined streets, chic eateries and historic local bars.
Irving Plaza, a noted concert venue, draws thousands of music lovers annually. A scattering of New York University dormitories and educational buildings can also be found throughout the eclectic Gramercy Park neighborhood.
At the area’s center is a private, gated park, from which the neighborhood takes its name. The two-acre park is one of only two private parks in New York City (the other is Sunnyside Gardens Park in Queens). And while the park itself is only open to residents who possess a key, the area surrounding Gramercy Park attracts joggers, sightseers, dog-walkers and power-walkers alike.
The Gramercy Park neighborhood was once characterized by The New York Times as a “Victorian gentleman that refuses to die.” The Times went on to say that there was nothing else like Gramercy Park in the whole of the country.
Gramercy Park has a long and well-documented history. It was once home to the famous Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth — whose own fame was eclipsed by that of his notorious brother, John Wilkes Booth, the man who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. The former Booth brother’s Player’s Club still stands in Gramercy Park today.
Because the neighborhood is both tranquil and relatively safe, homebuyers are attracted to the area. It has a very family-friendly vibe and it is not uncommon to see lines of strollers being pushed down Gramercy Park streets on a pleasant day.
Many derelict buildings — that have not been purchased by NYU — are now being converted to luxury high-rises. New construction activity remains highly active in this sought-after oasis in the concrete jungle.
Here’s a brief round-up of what’s available in the Gramercy Park new condo market with a budget of under $3 million.
1. CODA
Developed by Magnum Real Estate Group, CODA is located at 385 1st Avenue. It houses 103 units, ranging in size from 713 square feet to 1,595 square feet.
Situated near both Madison Square Park and the jogging path on the East River Greenway, CODA offers residents the best of Gramercy Park and the East Village. Close proximity to mass transit ensures a quick commute to either Midtown or Downtown. Residences boast a wealth of natural light and feature many thoughtful modern design touches, including European Oak flooring, white lacquer kitchen cabinetry and distinct selections of stone. The fresh interiors were designed by renowned D’Apostrophe Design.
Amenities include: a 24-hour lobby, private landscaped terrace, fitness center and a resident’s lounge.
Pricing starts at $995,000.
2. Celeste
Celeste was developed by LKH 23RD, LLC. It is located at 150 East 23rd Street and has a total of 51 units.
Celeste features one- to three-bedroom residences, including penthouses with substantial terraces.
Amenities include: an outdoor pool and a gym. The development is currently in registration and is slated for completion in late 2018.
Pricing for available units starts at $1,075,000.
3. 121 E 22ND
Developed by Toll Brothers City Living and Gemdale USA Corporation, 121 E 22ND is the first residential building in NYC designed by world-renowned architectural firm OMA. It houses 140 units, ranging in size from 616 square feet to 2,481 square feet.
121 E 22ND features a modern, glassy exterior and a uniquely etched out corner that breaks up the static design. Units will have open floorplans, with layouts ranging from studios to five-bedrooms. Other notable design details include floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings, while select residences have private outdoor space.
Amenities include: an indoor pool, a rooftop terrace with fire pit and grill, a screening room, and on-site parking.
Pricing starts at $1.3 million.
4. 200 East 21st Street
200 East 21st Street was developed by Alfa Development. It has a total of 67 units, and sizes range from 1,030 square feet to 1,823 square feet.
Open layouts in all residences provide generous spaces for entertaining or simply unwinding. The extensive Miele appliance package includes state-of-the-art cooking technology, while larger residences include built-in coffee makers and wine refrigerators. Select residences feature en-suite master baths, walk-in closets, and welcoming planted outdoor spaces.
Amenities include: private storage, 24-hour doorman and a resident’s lounge.
Pricing for available units starts at $1.4 million.
5. 355 East 19th Street
Developed by Realty Within Reach, 355 East 19th Street houses seven distinct units, ranging in size from 1,950 square feet to 2,663 square feet. Three- to four-bedroom floorplans are available.
The full-floor residences each have their own private balcony, and most cover over 2,000 square feet. Units boast oversized picture windows, Italian cabinetry, a full suite of Miele appliances and spa-like bathrooms.
Amenities include: smart home technology, keyed elevator, virtual doorman and a shared rooftop terrace.
Pricing starts at $2.9 million.
