Art Deco as a style is said to date back to early 1900s France, but the form of architecture can be found in a wide variety of world cultures. However, as a building concept in New York City, the style is rich in use, often a sign of a flourishing Metropolis. But while some of the top Art Deco buildings in the city are praised and landmarked, there are some lesser known beauties that also fit the bill of classy and extravagant.
The Westminster
180 West 20th Street is one building more Art Deco-inspired than full-on Art Deco but there’s no denying that it deserves a space among its forefathers. Located in Chelsea, this 16-story luxury rental building is right where it belongs. Nestled in proximity to tons of retail, dining, and entertainment options, the Robert A.M. Stern–designed building offers up a list of top-of-the-line amenities such as a fully-wired conference room, fitness center, electronic rent payments, 24-hour doorman and valet service, and a private entertainment lounge. And of course, there’s no forgetting the sun terrace that promises some of the finest views in the city.
Floorplans are generous with every apartment promising spacious layouts, featuring gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, in-apartment washer/dryer, oak flooring, and marble bathrooms.
The Brewster
21 West 86th Street is a pre-war Art Deco building that goes quietly compared to others, however, this Upper West Side rental gem understands its place in architectural design. Built in 1927 and converted only in 2014, the building boasts condominium-style finishes in each apartment (which come in a range of studio, one-, two-, three-, or four-bedrooms) with bathrooms that include soaking tubs and walk-in showers, and kitchens that offer custom built-in appliances.
Building amenities include a 24-hour, white glove concierge, children’s playroom, pet spa, and health club but there’s no doubt that the rooftop garden is the dealmaker here, a haven that offers outdoor grilling space, an outdoor fireplace, seating, and a great area to enjoy the city at night.
The Paris
Located on the Upper West Side, one of the city's top neighborhoods, 752 West End Avenue draws from its hotel heritage and its namesake to be worthy of being highlighted with some of New York City’s best Art Deco rental apartment buildings.
Built in 1931, the 24-floor rental apartment was converted in 2013. The Paris’ lobby is designed with appeal to the Parisian Art Deco style, detailed with its black and white marble floors. Each apartment features wide-plank, white oak wood flooring, tinted for a walnut tone, French-style casement windows, marble or mosaic tile bathrooms, and kitchens that boast oak cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops, and top-notch appliances. Views of, if not both, the city skyline and the Hudson River can be achieved from many apartments.
In close proximity to Central Park, The Paris is a certain high note in Manhattan living. With building amenities such as a 24-hour attended lobby, bike storage, on-site maintenance, building security, a fitness center offering a wide array of services, and laundry rooms on every floor. But with the building’s Upper West Side location comes a range of neighborhood perks from some of the city’s top restaurants, trendy retail spots, and never-ending entertainment.
