NYAA & 108 Leonard Launch Unique AIR Program

As we all know, residential real estate and new developments in Manhattan have shifted gears - focusing on how to offer their residents comfort and entertainment while remaining safe and within the social distancing guidelines.

A new initiative at 108 Leonard - their Artist in Residency Program (A.I.R), which is part of a larger initiative with the New York Art Academy (NYAA). The A.I.R. program was in development long before the pandemic hit. 108 Leonard, an original McKim, Mead & White architectural conversion in Tribeca, launched an exclusive partnership last year with the NYAA - a natural alignment that emphasized both partners' foundation in history, art and design. Through this partnership, residents receive exclusive access to NYAA exhibitions, private tours, celebrity events, private panels and talks, and more. 

Tabitha Whitley

One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership is the Artist in Residency Program, is that artists in New York have a very difficult time finding appropriate studio spaces at reasonable costs. Therefore 108 Leonard decided to offer, at no cost, large, light-filled studio space to students and alumni at NYAA. Artists are given coveted space to” said Shalaiwah Alveranga, Senior Manager, Marketing and Design at Elad Group. 

Artists are given coveted space to work on their art. Selected artwork from the Artist will also be curated to hung within the common spaces of 108 Leonard and residents and the public alike (through select events) will be able to purchase these works of art. Artwork and artists will be in rotation. The current Artist in Residence is the tremendously talented, Tabitha Whitley.

In response to the recent pandemic, 108 Leonard and NYAA have been working together to come up with alternative solutions to continue to provide art benefits and access through the A.I.R program.  Residents will be able to have first-access to NYAA's digital offerings. Additionally, Tabitha hosts regular livestream drawing classes not just residents, but for the public alike. After the classes, participants are encouraged to share their drawings with the audience. 

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

How to Turn Your Basement Into a Living Space

Many homeowners choose to use their basements as nothing more than glorified storage space. However, your basement can and should look just as warm, stylish, and inviting as the rest of your home. That’s why a great way of transforming your basement is by literally making it a new living space, whether it’s for you, a family member, or guests who visit. This is a worthy project to pursue, but it’s important to know how to turn your basement into a living space while meeting the necessary building codes required by local authorities.

Check Your Measurements

Many homeowners may think that you can transform your basement into a lavish living area whenever and however they’d like. However, that’s not the case. There are local regulations you’ll have to meet to legally start this project. One measurement that must be up to code is your ceiling—most states legally require it to reach a height of at least seven feet.

Before starting this project, make sure to study the local building codes you must meet to begin because, depending on your situation, you may have to do major construction on your basement floor to get that room to regulation height.

Add Insulation

If you or another party is going to live in the basement, you’ll have to make sure it’s optimized for the right temperatures. Installing insulation into the floor and walls will help combat low temperatures in the basement. Moreover, adding underfloor heating to your basement can further enhance the comfort and warmth of the space, making it truly livable and cozy. Installing insulation into the floor and walls will help combat low temperatures in the basement. It will also help combat dangerous moisture buildup and can improve the basement’s sound quality. By doing this, you can stay safe and healthy while recording a podcast, blasting music, or playing video games with great audio results.

Install a Window Well

Not all properties have the means of adding a window well. For instance, if your basement is above ground level, you can just add normal windows. However, basements located below ground will need window wells to bring in fresh air and natural light. Without that, the basement can feel less like a living space and more like a prison cell. Window wells also help combat moisture damage and provide your basement with an egress.

Many states will require you by law to have an egress in an underground living space, and window wells can help solve that problem. Window wells come with a thorough list of necessary maintenance procedures, but given the benefits they provide, these installations are well worth your time and effort.

Learning how to turn your basement into a living space is a great way to improve the value of your home. By taking the proper steps to complete this project, you can transform that glorified storage space into a lavish, welcoming area that you can spend time in. Once you get these requirements out of the way, you can start adding the fun stuff, such as TVs, beds, games, a bar, and all the amenities that make a living space your living space.

Mother's Day Meals Mom Can Indulge In

With everyone properly social distancing or in quarantine for
health and safety, the way we are spending Mother's Day this
year has been altered. For those who are able to spend this time with
their families, it is clearer how much more we should shower
those we love with affection- especially mothers. Instead of
going out to eat this year, some meal services are that are offering specials. Take a break from the take-out with these meals you don’t need to be a pro to prepare.

Caviar's Mother's Day Package

In honor of her mother, Angie Mar & the Beatrice Inn Family want to make this meal accessible for you to prepare in your own homes. One of their favorite Sunday dinners is Porchetta with roasted ramps, shallots, and onions- coming with a hearts of romaine and bitter green salad. Their family favorite and beloved dessert of Brown Butter & Sage Apple Pie has been passed along to the cooks at the Bea, so they will be sending the pies home, ready to be baked, with a wedge of d'affinois cheese on the side, so you can garnish it as you like when it comes out of the oven.

A delicious dinner for four- this package is $265, available for Pre-Order for Pick Up or Delivery on Caviar. Order by Tuesday, May 5th so they can begin preparations, you just need to select the pick up or delivery date as Friday May 8th, or Saturday May 9th. Or, you can also call and place your order.

Hungry @ Home

HUNGRY @ HOME is a subscription-based, family-style food delivery service that will provide direct-to-your-door, no-contact meal drop off for NYC families. All meals are coming directly from top local chefs, for $100 they provide a healthy family-style meal with 2 mains courses and 2 side dishes, 8 total servings. Currently they are offering a special Mother’s Day menu and for every family-style meal you order, HUNGRY donates four meals to help others in need. Not only are you gifting the mom in your life, you're helping your community as well.

image source: thegoodsmart.com

The Goods Mart: Mother's Day Snack Box

While she waits for dinner, gift Mom a surprise snack box! Founder Rachel Krupa initially created the initiative as a way to pivot during COVID-19 crisis – customers are able to create a custom box (with choices like vegan, paleo, or gluten free snacks, all non-GMO) and send either to a loved one or send to healthcare workers in need at NYU, Mount Sinai, Sloan Kettering and more (donating over $7K in healthy snacks to date). So for Mother’s Day, Krupa created a special female-founded Snack Box created by female entrepreneurs including Purely Elizabeth’s grain-free pancake mix; Biena Chickpea Puffs; Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers; Three Wishes Grain Free Cereal; Kween Granola Butter and Real Coconut Chips. 10% of each box purchased will go to the Restaurant Workers Community Foundation. You can choose between a $20, $40 and $60 box here.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

It's Official #ReturnofRoséSeason

Photo via @TheWhisperingAngel

Spring has finall sprung and it's officially the #ReturnofRoséSeason where we can now drink our favorite pink beverage! Our favorite pink drink that causes havoc in the Hamptons with a shortage and has it's very own Pinknic festival on Governors Island. The struggle to keep your composure as await sunnier skies, lighter clothing and outdoor dining is REAL. In addition to these small pleasures, rising temperatures mark our favorite time of year: Rosé Season. Below is a roundup of five reasons you should already be thinking (and drinking) rosé, including the first-ever rosé from Maison Louis Jadot. Wether your spending the season in bridgehampton or off to bushwick don't forget to bring your favorite rosé

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Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2017 Rosé

Noble Vines 515

Château Peyrassol (SRP: $29) - the blend is mostly Cinsault and Grenache, two thin-skinned grape varietals that grow well in a warm climate and that are ideal for  rosé production. The blend shows aromas of white fruits, citrus and white blossom with a delicate and silky smooth palate full of classic berry flavors, citrus, florals and bracing minerality. As a treat for the 2019 vintage, included in the blend for this year is Tibouren, a rare Provençal variety that creates wild, earthy and herbal rosés. It’s incredibly hard to find as little is grown, making this an extra treat. 

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery 2019 Rosé (SRP: $20.00; purchase here) – This Paso Robles style Rosé is dry and aromatic with muted strawberry, white cherry, red apple fruit on entry and melon with chamomile flower on the mid-palate. Serve this wine to guests with either cobb salad or roasted chicken seasoned with garlic, thyme and lemon.

Bonterra’s new 2019 Rosé - a Grenache-based blend that exudes aromas of ruby red grapefruit, red cherry and watermelon while flavors of pomegranate, red berries and a hint of peach meet the palate. If a glass of wine isn’t hitting the spot for your reader’s backyard, rooftop or open-window happy hours, I’d suggest going for the canned variety or turning the Bonterra Rosé into a refreshing twist on a Frosé.

Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2017 Rosé -. Produced in the traditional saignée method from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, this structured, dry rosé is bursting with red fruit flavors and aromas, like raspberry and red currant, and balanced with an intriguing minerality on the finish. It pairs beautifully with a great variety of summer foods.

M de Minuty 2017, bottled in the traditional curvy Provencal bottle, is a vibrant, dry rosé with balanced white peach and candied orange peel aromas and a smooth, round mouthfeel. Pale in color, it’s marked by a racy acidity and beautiful freshness.

Want to make sure your glass matches your drink. Grab a few of our favorite pink stemmed glassed by Riedel (SRP $100/glass, $540/set of six) Maintaining the series’ tell-tale slim profile and color-pop stem, the hue of the new Fatto a Mano Pink glasses is a soft rose, perfect for springtime, when it will be released, in comparison to the more primary colors of the original series launch.  Playful and demure, it’s as versatile as your readers’ tastes, perfect for rooftop gatherings or for bachelorette party gifts!

Meiomi Delicate & Dry 2016 - Light salmon in color with just a kiss of pink hue, Meiomi Rosé is delightfully dry with vibrant acidity. The wine opens to delicate aromas of watermelon, orange peel, and subtle hints of rose petal. The palate offers a lush mouthfeel with flavors of stone fruit and strawberry with a cool minerality on the finish.

Whispering Angel : The Rosé that causes a frenzy among those out East and around the country. Whispering Angel is a fan favorite of celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker and Andy Cohen, and even had it's very own gummy bear made by Sugarfina. A refreshing, refined, and with plenty of juicy, enticing, strawberry and berry fruit, this rosé should be in everyone’s cellars, without exception. Drinkable is an understatement and you’ll keep on coming back for seconds… We defy you to resist.

Louis Jadot Rosé: Hailing from Coteaux Bourguignons, a new appellation created in 2001 by the Institut National des Appellations Contrôlées, this Burgundian rosé is floral and fruity, offering a fantastic value from the most trusted name in French winemaking. Available beginning April 1st, this versatile wine has notes of fresh red currant and raspberry and pairs perfectly with salads, pasta or grilled fish.

Masi Agricola Rosa dei Masi : A serious name in Italian winemaking has produced a unique rosé, made with the Refosco grape; native to the Veneto region. The Rosa dei Masi represents a new take on the rosé wine category due to the producers specialty Appassimento technique—using 100 percent dried grapes in the production. The Supervenetian rosé has intense aromas of just ripened fruit on the nose and a well-balanced and refreshing acidity. Serve with light pasta, shellfish and seafood.

Alta Vista Rosé : This Argentine rosé of Malbec is striking, due to its deep and intense color. It’s made with two different maceration techniques of Malbec grapes and a low-temperature vinification that enhances the freshness of the fruit. The two wines are then blended in equal proportions before clarification and stabilization. The South American rosé will show fruity aromas of ripe cherries and floral notes of red roses. Pair with bright, fresh salads or with light pasta dishes.

Maison Saleya Rosé : Named for the flower market in the French city of Nice, Saleya Rosé is the essence of summer in a bottle.  This quintessential Provence-style wine is a dry and elegant rosé, featuring floral aromas with bright citrus, white peach and red berry flavors.

Caposaldo Rosé : A fantastic value for any day of the week, this dry rosé is made with 100 percent Corvina grapes that are sourced from estate owned and estate controlled vineyards only. It has bright strawberry and raspberry notes on the nose that carry into the vibrant and refreshing palate.

2016 Noble Vines 515 Vine Select Rosé Draft: Grown in windy valleys along California’s sunny Central Coast, Noble Vines 515 Rosé is a traditional composition of Grenache layered with Syrah and other aromatic varieties.  Widely used in Provence, France, Grenache offers flavors of cherries and blueberries, with spicy notes, and extra body and richness.  Noble Vines 515 Vine Select Rosé is made in a dry traditional style, showcasing a bright bouquet of raspberry, watermelon and Meyer lemon.  Medium bodied, with a rich mid-palate, this snappy wine has a lively start with flavors of grapefruit and strawberry, then cherry, culminating in a fresh creamy finish.

Our Favorite Listing: A Williamsburg Home With Lots Of Private Space

Our favorite listing this week is 33 Frost Street #2B, a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home currently on the market for $1,699,000. Ari Harkov, Warner Lewis, Marc Schaeffer, The Harkov Lewis Team are the listing agents.

33 Frost is tucked away on a charming tree-lined street in chic North Williamsburg, where homeowners will enjoy a quiet oasis at the epicenter of one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the world.. A central elevator opens into the 2, 3, and 4 bedroom homes, allowing for secure, individual access to the apartment - including a private outdoor space - and a virtual doorman provides modern convenience. A single private garage with ample storage space and four rooftop cabanas are available for separate purchase.

Residence 2B is a half floor unit with two bedrooms and a home office, 2 bathrooms, and a private backyard. Direct keyed elevator access opens up to an open great room. The expansive deep kitchen showcases a gracious display of tilework from the floor inlay to the herringbone backsplash, all accented by under cabinet lighting. Chefs will love the top tier appliances by Wolf, Bosch, Bertazzoni, and Fisher & Paykel, as well as the spacious quartz countertop and breakfast bar that look out onto the living room. The enormous window in the living room overlooks the backyards and gardens of the block and brings in an abundance of fresh air and natural light.

A convenient guest bedroom is located off the living space and features sliding doors to a Juliet balcony and a large walk in closet. The guest bathroom showcases a spa-like soaking tub with rain shower fixtures and a stunning marble vanity. The adjacent windowed home office provides the space for an additional guest room, nursery, or home office. The master suite is bright and spacious with oversized windows and access to a gracious private balcony. The en-suite master bath features stunning tile, marble dual sink, and a glass-enclosed shower.

33 Frost Street #2B also has access to the unit’s own private outdoor space. World-class restaurants such as Lilia and Llama Inn bookend 33 Frost, which conveniently lies between both the L and G train at the corner of Metropolitan and Lorimer and Bedford Avenue. McCarren Park is also only a couple of blocks away. The park has a weekend farmer's market, a brand new running track and soccer field, a playground, an expansive outdoor pool complex, state-of-the-art tennis courts, and dog runs.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

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What To Drink At Cinco De Mayo When You Can't Leave Your Home

Chances are that (unfortunately) many of us will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo at home this year without visits to our favorite bars or restaurants. For those of you want to celebrate the holiday but stay in the comforts of your home below is a list of cocktails for you to make and everything you need to have celebrated the holiday without dealing with people from the outside world.

Celebración Punch Created by Milagro Tequila Ambassador, Jaime Salas

• Milagro Silver, 6 Parts

• Guava Nectar (pink), 12 Parts

• Ginger Simple Syrup, 2 Parts

• Lime Juice, 3 Parts

Combine all ingredients in a punch bowl and mix. Top with Club Soda or Prosecco. Garnish with Lime Wheels and White Edible Flowers

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Miami Cocktail Co’s Organic SPRITZ canned Margarita is crafted with 100% blue weber agave wine paired with organic lime, orange, elderflower and ginger juices, and the Paloma SPRITZ is that same agave wine lightly paired with organic grapefruit, hibiscus, and ginger juices. Organic wine and juice – that’s it! Both are only 4.2% ABV and contain 110 calories per can with no sugar added. The fun colored cans will brighten any home bar or fridge! If a spritz isn’t your thing, Miami Cocktail Co. also bottles the Small Batch Original Organic Copper Pot Margarita, made using blue agave tequila, pure organic key lime juice, and a hint of Valencia oranges. Pour over ice, salt your rim and garnish with a lime, and your Zoom party will never know you didn’t make it yourself from scratch!

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Cucumber-Coconut Margarita

• 1.5 oz PATRÓN Silver

• 2 oz Coconut water

• .5 oz Fresh lime juice

• .5 oz Simple syrup

• 7 Thin slices of cucumber, 3 for garnish 

Method: Combine all ingredients (including 4 of the cucumber slices) in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously with ice to chill. Strain onto fresh ice in a highball glass. Garnish with remaining 3 cucumbers.

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New Amsterdam Tropical Spiced Mule

• 1.5 oz. New Amsterdam Vodka

• .5 oz. Cinnamon Whiskey

• 1 oz. Pineapple Juice

• Top w/ Ginger Beer

Pour into an ice filled steel thermos or mule mug and stir together to combine/chill

For the beer lover you can drink the Stella Artois Cidre Sangria Punch created by Omar Flores, Casa Rubio (Dallas, TX), Serves 8 people.

• 1 honey crisp apple – cored and sliced thin

• 1 cup white grapes cut in half

• 1 cup white grape juice

• 1 lemon cut into wheels

• 3 orange peels

• 1 dash vanilla extract

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 cup apple sauce or non-alcoholic apple cider

• 1 tablespoons sugar

• 3 sprigs of mint

• 4 12-ounce bottles Stella Artois Cidre

Directions:
In a large punch bowl add apples, grapes, grape juice, lemons, orange peel, cinnamon, vanilla, apple cider and sugar. Mix thoroughly and allow to macerate for 30-45 minutes. To finish the punch, add cold Stella Artois Cidre, ice and mint. Serve immediately.

Avión Blood Orange Margarita

• 1.5 oz. Avión Silver

• .75 oz. fresh blood orange juice

• .5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice

• .75 oz. agave nectar

1. In a cocktail shaker add all ingredients with ice. Shake and strain. Serve over fresh ice and garnish with an orange twist.

Serve with Late July's NEW Cantina DIPPERS

While you're enjoying these cocktails you can try and make homemade salsa created by Late July Snacks CEO & Founder, Nicole Bernard Dawes

Ingredients:
3-4 medium-large heirloom tomatoes, chopped/diced to 1/4″
½ medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small bunch of cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
1-2 limes, juiced
Salt to taste
 
Optional ingredients: Mango, avocado, tomatillos, sweet corn, black beans

Directions:
1. Prepare the tomatoes, onion, garlic, cilantro and jalapeño. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and stir well. Juice the limes and add salt to taste. Consider adding other optional ingredients or prepare a second version using mango as a base. Can prepare up to an hour ahead.

Balcony and Terrace Decor Ideas for Your NYC Apartment

When you are an urban dweller, it’s challenging to get enough of the great outdoors. You know that you need to get your sunshine vitamins, but sitting on a stoop gets uncomfortable after a while. Why don’t you transform your balcony or terrace into a fresh air oasis where you can unwind and dream? This space will soon become your favorite room in the house. 

1. Add a Small Outdoor Kitchen 

You probably don’t have sufficient space to put in a deluxe outdoor kitchen, but you can do a lot with a small space. For example, if your kitchen window opens to the area, can you add an extended shelf to make a countertop? This arrangement gives you a spot to place condiments and buns when you fire up the grill. You can also install a counter along the inside of your railing and add some barstools to make an alfresco dining spot. 

2. Protect Your Privacy 

Even if you adore your neighbors, you don’t necessarily need spectators when you lie in savasana after a fresh-air yoga session. Why not install some fencing to create a private oasis from the world. You can go for natural designs, like bamboo fencing that features warm shades that complement nearly any decor. You can even plant the rapidly growing stuff to make a jungle-like privacy screen. 

3. Make Your Garden Grow 

If you don’t have a garden yet, why are you still waiting? You don’t need to spend much money at all to get a little harvest going at home. Learn how to save your seeds from the organic produce you buy from the grocery. Tomatoes, peppers and beans make superb choices for the novice gardener. 

4. Light It Up 

If all you use to illuminate your space is a bare bulb, you’re doing yourself a disservice — and attracting moths. Get strings of globe or fairy lights at your local discount store to make your balcony resemble a wonderland. Draw inspiration from the way cafés create similar effects. You can also get a constellation globe and enjoy views of the Big Dipper on your ceiling even when light pollution makes the real thing invisible to the naked eye. 

5. Cozy Seating 

Folding metal chairs gripe your back something awful after only minutes. Invest in quality patio furniture that you can sink into and relax. A hammock always makes nap time a miniature vacation — just imagine you’re sunning yourself in Tahiti. If you find that the collection you want is out of your price range, you can reupholster old outdoor furnishings you find at a thrift store. As natural fabrics tend to fade with the weather, stick to synthetic blends for longevity.  

6. A Little Entertainment 

Finally, while you can’t crank up your stereo without raising complaints from the neighbors, some background music sets the tone for meditating or kicking back with a cold one. Invest in a pair of wireless Bluetooth speakers to bring your playlist outside. If you have a wall that’s protected from the elements, you can hang an outdoor TV so that you don’t miss game day while you take in the fresh air. 

Make Your NYC Balcony or Terrace Into a Retreat 

You don’t have to head to the park to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine in the city. Transform your NYC balcony or terrace into an oasis and enjoy the best of outdoor urban living. 

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Al Fresco Party Hosting: 4 Tips To Ensure An Amazing Experience For All

As spring gives way to summer and the mercury soars, hosting parties where al fresco dining takes centre-stage becomes an incredibly popular choice. There’s something about eating outside that is undeniably charming; whether it’s a barbecue for a small group of friends or a birthday party for a huge number of guests, dining outside always adds something extra special to the experience.

To ensure you can make the most of the delights of any outdoor dining experience you host this year, keep the following tips in mind… 

#1 - Include food options you don’t need to cook 

Al fresco dining is often preceded by al fresco cooking; most commonly on a barbecue or grill. However, this type of cooking can be rather intense, as you’re removed from your usual cooking environment and don’t necessarily have everything you need to hand as readily as you would in your kitchen. It’s therefore preferable to opt for a balance of food that you cook and food that you either pre-prepare or order in; choose one main dish to cook during the event, and then explore options such as salads, soft pretzels, and canapes to round out the menu for your guests. 

#2 - Address the insect threat 

Insects can ruin an al fresco dining unlike almost anything else; the persistent buzz of both flies and wasps is both distracting and potentially unsanitary, and you’ll naturally want to make sure only your invited guests are able to enjoy your food. 

#3 - Take account of issues related to light 

There are two light-related issues that can be problematic for an al fresco event. The first is too much light; bright sunshine sounds wonderful in theory, but can be highly problematic in practice due to the threat of burning, so make sure there’s plenty of shade available for your guests while they eat. On the other end of the scale, light can be problematic in terms of there being too little, especially for events held in the evening; solar lights, firepits, and mains-powered LED lights are all options that can make sure everyone can see both their food and one another if dining after sunset. 

#4 - Always have backup plans just in case of rain

Even if you have checked the forecast and you’re as good as certain the weather will hold up, it’s still advisable to think the unthinkable and strategize as to how the party can go on even if the weather does turn. Being able to move an event inside is perhaps the best choice in this regard, so it’s worth readying the interior of your home just in case this becomes necessary. In particular, have a backup plan for how you will prepare food if you do have to decamp indoors; an indoor grill can be an excellent option for your main meal in such a scenario. 

In conclusion 

Eating al fresco is always a joy, but with the tips above, you can be confident you’ll make the most of your outdoor dining every time you have the chance to experience it. Enjoy! 

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

The Most Popular Paint Colors for NYC Apartments Right Now

Every year, different color trends take over apartments around the world. We've embraced bold accent walls and pops of color, but what's popular right now? If you're ready to spruce up your place, take a look at these tried and true paint shades. They're a mix of trendy tones and cult favorites – perfect for a New York City space.

Here are the most popular paint colors for city dwellers.

1. Soft Whites

For the most part, apartments tend to stick to neutral hues. That's no surprise because renters don't often stay put for too long. As a result, soft whites, like Benjamin Moore's China White and Snow Leopard by Portola Paints, remain excellent choices. When tenants move to a new apartment, bright neutrals allow them to style their new space as they wish. Plus, natural woods and metals work well with muted colors – and those elements are huge.

2. Dark Blues and Greens

Many higher-end apartments turn to bold shades to stand out from other residences. For example, designers love Club Navy by Ralph Lauren Paints because it exudes luxury and style. Everyone knows that affordable New York City apartments aren't humongous – and stark, deep shades can make those areas feel a lot larger than they appear on paper.

3. Fun Oranges

When companies remodel an apartment, several choose to emphasize the home's entryway. If you move to one of these newly renovated buildings, it's not unusual to see brightly painted front doors. A lot of people love orange, as it's a lively shade that complements contemporary features and makes dull areas pop. Apartment dwellers who prefer walk-up properties could add bursts of orange to their interiors instead.

Benjamin Moore's Orange Sky mixes orange and yellow to produce a gorgeous tone. Blood Orange by Sydney Harbour Paints would be a vibrant alternative.

4. Earthy Reds and Browns

A lot of apartments stay away from bold tones – but if you're a New Yorker, you know that brick accent walls aren't hard to find. As a result, red tends to be a trendy color. You could add removable wallpaper to mimic those rustic bricks, but red cabinets and other small touches work as well. Chocolate brown and red wine shades seem to be more on-trend than not this year.

These hues emphasize warmth and energy, which couldn't be more perfect for a cozy New York City apartment.

5. Bold Grays

Like dark blues and greens, plenty of apartment dwellers love bold gray accent walls. They're not overly obnoxious – which could be a turn-off for potential renters. Instead, they provide enough character and style for everyone. If you don't want to commit to navy blue, for example, Magnolia's Prairie Smoke leans toward blacks and browns. Therefore, it matches any aesthetic!

Plus, different shades of gray work together perfectly. One room can feature a dark accent wall, while another could use a lighter shade throughout. Like a soft white, gray remains popular for NYC apartments. When you choose to move out, your landlord may not even mind that you painted!

These Are the Best Shades for Any NYC Apartment

Everyone has their own specific style. That said, you can count on these shades to remain popular throughout 2020 and beyond.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

5 Hampton Homes to Escape the City

Briana Gonzalez

Whether you are looking for a summer getaway home or are planning on moving closer to the beach, these Hampton homes offer a change of pace and escape from bustling city atmosphere. Known for it’s mix of rustic rural scenery and ocean-side activities, the Hamptons are a group of towns, villages, and hamlets where many people tend to go to in the summer months to unwind. These Hampton Homes below are all from East Hampton - one of the Hampton’s only two townships.

1 High Point Rd, East Hampton  

image source: outeast.com

Price: $1,495,000

This newly renovated 4 bedroom and 3.4 bathroom contemporary designed home has rustic elements from the fire place, white oak flooring, and even the winding staircase. The sliding glass doors let in a lot of natural lighting and allows you to overlook the open outdoor space, with a brand new deck equipped with a Jacuzzi. Located close to Maidstone Park, Haven’s Beach and Barnes Hole Beach.  

31 Rivers Rd, East Hampton

image source: douglas elliman

Price: $2,499,000

Imagine as though you were in a luxe resort with this 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom East Hampton Home. The outdoor dining and lounge area - with outdoor gas burning fire place- is perfect for summer months hosting parties for watching the sunset. The double height ceiling and wood burning indoor fireplace is perfect to enjoy all year round.

32 Hedges Banks, East Hampton  

image source: corcoran.com

Price: $3,495,000

Soak in the amazing panoramic views from the modern waterfront overlooking Gardiner’s Bay. The open concept allows for natural lighting to soak through every room. Equipped with a fireplace, outdoor pool, dining area and kitchen, the atmosphere is a contemporary yet cozy getaway.

40 Wireless Road, East Hampton

image source: sothebyshomes.com

Price: $4,450,000

Less than a mile from East Hampton’s Main Street, 6 bedroom and 7 bathroom home has the esteemed distinction as an “inhabitable work of art” - a home custom built by seasoned designers and considered art. The minimalist design in accompanied with references to Greek and Roman architecture. Walls of glass and oversized windows allow light to shine among the wood floor and create shadows among the arcades. The dining room table seats 14 or more people, with ambient lighting above and alongside the master staircase, in the hallway, and under the kitchen island as well. An extra wide staircase leads to the master suite with a sunken bedroom and an arch through the master dressing room. Equipped with an entertainment space, a guest suite, wine room, and home gym, this home has ample outdoor space and offers solar panels, and high efficiency boiler and water heaters for Eco-friendly sustainability.

43 Settlers Landing Ln, East Hampton

image source: outeast.com

Price: $2,999,999 

This traditional style East Hampton 6 bedroom and 6.5-bathroom home has an authentic barn style outdoor aesthetic with a modern interior. The vaulted ceilings and fireplace are covered in clear cedar, and the entertaining area expands into an open concept barn-like space with similar high ceilings. The master bathroom has amenities like a walk-in shower and a soaking tub. Accompanied by ample outdoor space, the backyard has an outdoor pool surrounded by green landscapes to create an outdoor oasis. 

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

The New York real estate market has not gone anywhere

Nada Rizk

New Yorkers are known to be forward thinking and resilient –– and this applies to the city's real estate. While we are definitely in a current market pause, and will probably continue to be in one until the situation calms, the Covid-19 outbreak hasn't fully stopped purchases that were already underway from being completed and we continue to market some available properties. As everyone adjusts to this global pandemic, we do not know what the new norm will be once the Coronavirus settles, however, there is a strong indication for market activity. We have been communicating with clients––from investors, to local residents––and it seems that so far, people remain committed to buying properties in New York. None of our buyers and sellers have expressed an interest in changing their plans.

There is a strong foundation for a market recovery

We expect to see a delay in our usual real estate Spring peak seasons due to the city's lockdown and global restriction of travel, but there is every indication that the city will still have an active real estate season. Transactions that were in progress have remained on track and the market report (for the months of Jan-March) which came out in the midst of New York's quarantine, pointed to many more deals being made, with sellers willing to adjust their prices and buyers interested in seizing these opportunities. Interest rates will remain historically low. Traditionally, the success of the stock market and low unemployment rates tend to favor sellers. This past year, these were at opposing ends prompting some buyers to seize this unusual occurrence of a robust stock market coexisting with a strong buyer's real estate market.

It will remain a buyer’s market

We feel that when we return to business it will remain a buyer’s market. Buyers who have been on pause with their search will be eager to move forward and sellers who have had a property sitting on the market will be just as eager to sell. Everyone will be anxious to move forward.  Buyers will be motivated and looking to take advantage of opportunities in a market that continues to offer low interest rates, high inventory and realistic pricing.

Joanne Green

We anticipate a lot of activity due to pent-up demand, but we don’t think that will translate to higher prices, just more accurate pricing and deals being consummated. There may be opportunities in new development as developers continue to offer incentives.

What the market will look like

While buyers looking for a primary residence are unlikely to buy their new home sight unseen, they are reevaluating their new home needs given the current situation and preparing a list of properties to view as soon as possible. There will always be real estate needs – relocation, expansion, downsizing, etc. We expect there to be a lot of activity and deals being made.

New Yorkers are resilient - they like to move forward as we’ve seen after other setbacks we’ve experienced. We have adapted quickly to a new way of working despite everything changing. We have managed to continue our lives, work, school in a different way but know everyone misses their old lives and are eager to regain a sense of normalcy and move forward.

Nada Rizk and Joanne Greene are a top producing team at Brown Harris Stevens.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Our Favorite Listing: A TriBeCa 3 Bedroom Soon To Be On The Market

Our favorite listing this week is 111 Murry St. residence #44A in TriBeCa, soon the on the market, it hs3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms asking for $6,495,000.

Located on a transfer floor of the building with ceiling heights 18" higher than other residences in the building, #44A is a residence that exudes scale, height, view, and luxury. At just under 2,000 square feet and with three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, the corner home enjoys jetliner views that wrap from river to river, encompass the entirety of Manhattan, and stretch to the Atlantic Ocean and Westchester.

Shared by only one other apartment on the landing, the entry to the home is highly private. After entering through the gracious foyer, the open-plan feel immediately greets you with corner views and light. The chef's kitchen, designed like the rest of the home by AD100 interior designer David Mann, is open to the living and dining area and has fully vented top-of-the-line appliances and finishes. Each bedroom is gracious and enjoys a different perspective of the view, and each has their own en-suite bathroom clad in marble and limestone. 

The master bedroom is replete with multiple walk-in closets for ample storage and an enormous and graciously appointed master bathroom with double vanity, soaking tub, and oversized stall shower, all with stunning northern views of the city.

Herringbone-style white oak wood flooring outlines the residence, and it also boasts automatic shades, a full-sized vented washer/dryer, and heated floors in all bathrooms.

111 Murray is a new height in global luxury. The building offers 157 residences over its 800 feet of height, with architecture by KPF, amenities by David Rockwell and landscape architecture by Edmund Hollander. The building offers over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities including full-time concierge and resident manager, fitness center by the Wright Fit, 25-meter pool, plunge pools, hammam, private Dry Bar, children's playroom, teen room, lounges, catering kitchen, patisserie with daily breakfast and coffees, valet parking, and multiple outdoor spaces and gathering areas. 

Ian Slater at Compass is the listing agent.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

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Considerations When Planning a Driveway Paving Project

Assessing the state of your home’s overall appearance and deciding what to spruce up, pare down, eliminate, or add is part of the equation before listing residence for sale. The parking and garage area are among the first things prospective buyers will see. Here are considerations when planning a driveway paving project.

Budget and Materials

Driveways can be paved with gravel, stained concrete, asphalt, stone, or brick. Each has benefits and drawbacks, but cost will probably be your main determining factor. Each has benefits and drawbacks, but cost will probably be your main determining factor. Gravel is the cheapest, while brick and stone are costly. Professionals should install concrete, asphalt, and stone or brick pavers. However, some experienced DIYers may get away with creating a concrete drive on their own. Nowadays, you can find a wide range of concrete tools including the big blue easy float online so if you are thinking about taking on your driveway paving project yourself, doing some research can help you to plan your next steps.

Maintenance

Different materials need various types of maintenance. For instance, tarmac often develops potholes and other damage over time, so having a reliable tarmac contractors available for upkeep can be very useful.

Think about the climate in your location. While gravel is cheap and relatively easy to install, it’s a headache for snowplows. It can also develop potholes. Concrete is easier to plow, but can develop cracks after repeated rounds of freezing and thawing. Asphalt can survive snowplowing but must be re-sealed every few years. Asphalt, concrete, brick, and stone all could stain, while gravel kicks around and you’ll have to sweep it back into place and replenish it from time to time. Think about how much time and effort you are willing to invest in keeping a new driveway looking nice while you think about listing your home.

Style, Design, and Fit

It’s usually not a good idea to make your house look way out of range of the other houses in your neighborhood. An expensive brick or stone drive looks odd when surrounded by gravel and concrete drives on either side and across the street. A gravel drive looks a bit, shall we say, rustic next door to stone pavers. You can add a little personality to your driveway—a brick or stone edging adds a little interest—without looking like you intend to overprice your house. Additionally, blacktop driveway paving is often an affordable option that complements various architectural styles, providing a polished look that integrates well with neighboring properties.

If your driveway is in front of your house, it should integrate nicely with your gardens and walks. Think about the practical matter of pulling in and out of the driveway. A lazy lane is easier to back onto than a busy, four-lane, divided street. If you have the space, your driveway design might accommodate a t-shaped area as a way to turn around. If you have a one-car garage but two cars, one of those cars will need a pad to the side of the drive to keep out of the way of the car that lives in the garage. Limited space limits your design options, but if you have the room, curves are more interesting than straight lines.

Drainage and Sustainability

Many newer paving materials are permeable to allow rainwater to soak through. Some types of paver installations allow decorative, low-growing herbs, grass, or moss to populate the spaces between blocks. If permeable materials won’t work for your installation, or even if they will but you get a lot of rain, you must consider proper drainage. The drive should pitch gently away from the house to allow runoff into a trench drain, slot drain, catch basin, or swale, and from there into a storm sewer or other acceptable drainage area. Some newer or expanded homes have garages on the lower level and driveways that slope down. Proper drainage is critical in such installations.

Upping your home’s curb appeal may not require planning an entirely new driveway paving project. Concrete might get a fresh look with a good power washing, and a professional paving company can re-seal asphalt and make it look new.

Wine 101: 3 Key Things Every Wine Lover Should Know

It’s always a good time to educate yourself on the things you love. Whether you want to learn more about your favorite language or your favorite drink, there’s always more to learn. If you love the taste of Rosé or the way that bottle of Pinot Noir pairs with your steak, then it may be a good idea to learn more about why your wine is the way it is. To help you on your way to deeper wine knowledge, take a look at three things every wine lover should know!

What Does It Take To Be A Wine Expert? 

Knowing a great deal of information about wine isn’t as easy as you’d imagine. The romantic and inquisitive journey to studying wine can bring you historical and cultural importance, and, most importantly, a job title. Some people even take up wine courses to expand their knowledge on the field. Certain individuals around the world call themselves as wine experts, wine connoisseurs, or sommeliers. 

A sommelier is known as a wine expert that typically works in a fine dining restaurant. They’re sought for their compelling knowledge, and experience with wine tasting and selection, service, storage, and food pairings. If you consider yourself a wine lover, you can take your interest further and obtain a sommelier certification. 

The Court of Master Sommeliers introduced four levels to becoming a certified sommelier, from Level 1 to 4 Sommelier. Before qualifying for a sommelier certification for a higher level, you’ll need to first possess a certification for the preceding level. To practice a wine-related career in a renowned food establishment, it’s best to get a certified Level 3 Sommelier or Advanced Sommelier certification. The advanced level proves to be the most challenging next to the Master Sommelier certification, as only 14 students pass this evaluation annually.

By pursuing sommelier certification, you’ll be able to broaden your knowledge about theoretical wine knowledge, including the history, geography, and type of grapes used for every wine. Also, you’ll be immersed in the following wine-related activities: 

• Wine tasting and service

• Wine decanting

• Choosing the right wine bottle price range

• Assisting guests in navigating wine menus

• Learn proper wine serving temperatures

• Achieving a standard five-ounce wine pour

How to Store an Open Bottle

If you don’t finish a bottle of wine the day you open it (which is probably a good thing) then you need to make sure that you’re storing it properly. Many people shove the same cork back into the opening while others opt for store-bought wine stoppers. These are good options, or you can even go with plastic wrap and a rubber band! Either way, you want to keep air from leaking into the bottle.

That said, you also need to pay attention to the temperature you’re storing the wine at. Though red wine shouldn’t be served chilled, it should be put in the fridge to slow down the oxidation process.

• Red wine: Stored at 57–64 °F

• White wine: Stored at 46–50 °F

• Champagne or sparkling wine: Stored at 41–44 °F

• Rosé or dessert wine: Stored at 52–55 °F

The Reason Behind that Dry Mouth

If you’re a fan of red wine, but don’t quite understand why your mouth dries out after a few sips, then you need to do some research on tannins. Long story short, they are compounds that exist in grape skin and stems that release into the wine. They bind with the proteins in your mouth and add to that drying out sensation. That’s why, when you pair a tannin-forward wine with a nice slab of red meat, you don’t notice that dry mouth sensation as much—it’s binding to the protein in the meat rather than the protein in your mouth. When you know about tannins, you’ll have a better idea of what to pair with your favorite bottle of red.

A Few Tricks on Chilling Wine

Though you shouldn’t chill red wines, your bottles of white wine, champagne, and most dessert wines taste better and showcase more flavor when they’re chilled. Though you may feel tempted to pop the bottles in your normal fridge, those temperatures might be too cold and end up seeping the flavor out. You can pop the bottles in a wine fridge or you can try out some of these awesome chilling techniques!

• Chill the wine with frozen grapes—they won’t dilute the wine like ice cubes will.

• Put salt in with your ice bucket—salt reduces the freezing point of ice and lowers the temperature of your wine bottle.

• Chill Champagne with wet paper towels and then put it in the freezer for 5–10 minutes.

These are just a few of the important things every wine lover should know. There’s much more out there—you just have to take the time to look!

10 Best Tech Gifts for Mother's Day

Briana Gonzalez

If you’re looking to send the mom in your life a gift this Mother’s Day, take a look at these innovative and personalized tech gifts. Regardless of her personality - whether she enjoys fitness, gardening, fashion or enjoys a more classic and sentimental gift- these gift options are small ways you can show her how much you care and appreciate everything she does daily.

Spinning Heart Messenger

With the heart box, up to 20 people can send love notes and quick messages to the wooden digital box. Change the message daily and the heart spins to let them know a sweet message is waiting for them. Available for $99.99.

Cooluli Skincare Mini Fridge

Perfect for the beauty-loving mom in your life. Through temperature control, most skin care products need to be kept at a certain temperature to ward off bacteria and prolong shelf-life. Available for $139.99.

Bissell Smart Purifier

Gift mom this air purifier that is chic and compact so she can place it anywhere in the house! Looks almost like a speaker and can make air cleaner by filtering allergens like dust, pollen, and pet hair. Available for $329.99 here.

Aero Garden

Perfect for the gardening or foodie mom, you can grow up to 6 different herbs, vegetables, or flowers all year long- no sun or soil needed. The contemporary design is perfect and compact enough to keep in your kitchen or inside space. Available for $139.99 here.

Unwind Live Well Gift Set from Modern Sprout

here.Help Mom relax this Mother’s Day through the Unwind gift set, designed with lavender aromatherapy tools and equipped with a sleep mask to help her sleep. Available for $50.00 here.

The Smart Mirror

Looking for something for the fitness loving mom in your life? With the smart fitness mirror, you can have certified trainers from the country's top fitness studios provide motivation and live feedback all personalized for you in the comfort of your own home. Also create customized playlists while you work out. Available for $1,495.

Infrared Heating Pad

hereBring the spa to the mom in your life with the Infrared Heating Pad. It uses deep penetrating Infrared Rays to warm your muscles, allowing you to completely unwind and relieve stress. Available for $149.99 here.

Fit-Smart Yoga Mat

This smart-yoga mat is self rolling and comes with built in yoga routines powered by Women’s Health. As you sweat your grip improves because of the top layer and the bottom layer sticks to the ground easily. Designed for sustainability, this mat is eco-friendly as well. Good for the environment and you. Available for $89.95.

Ember Temperature Control Smart-Mug

Perfect for the coffee or tea loving mom, the temperature control mug keeps your drink at the exact temperature you prefer for one hour and you can select your personalized LED color. Available for 79.95$.  

Digital Photo Frame

Gift Mom something sentimental this Mother’s Day with The Sawyer Digital Photo Frame from Aura Frames lets you share photos from your iOS or Android device to the frame with the user-friendly Aura Frames app. Each photograph is displayed with automatic color correction and light balance enhancing each image. You can cycle through photos and change from portrait to landscape. Available for $249.99

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.