Tips For Curating Art for Your Luxury Apartment

There are few things in a young adult's life that scream "luxury" more than living in an apartment in New York City with fine art. Someday, you might move on from your seventeenth-floor flat with happy memories in tow, but your artwork will always come with you.

It’s becoming the latest design must-have as well. According to Yelp's 2022 Home Trend Forecast Report, there was an increase of 181% for art installation search terms, indicating a shift toward creativity and self-expression in interior design.

Meanwhile, Sotheby's 2021 Historic Year In Review saw a 78% expansion into the 40-and-under demographic — a new trend for art market audiences. However, despite its importance to home design, art is often an afterthought for many people.

For those who prefer the finer things in life, it may be best to reconsider your stance on incorporating visually-pleasing pieces into your space. Here are five tips for curating art for your luxury apartment.

1. Choose Your Mood

Anybody with a Pinterest account knows the addiction of pinning design inspiration for your dream home — what starts as a few minutes to pass the time ends up being hours later.

Creating a separate board for art is an excellent way to discover your preferences, especially since the first step to curation is uncovering what feeling you want to elicit in each room. Do you want to create a bright and sunny mood, a relaxing sensation or something dramatic?

Maybe you have an affinity for color or wild prints to pop against a white wall or neutral furniture, creating an adventurous vibe. On the other hand, you might prefer your artwork to blend into the space or to make a gallery wall for a more organized atmosphere.

Figuring out the mood you want to convey is essential before selecting paintings and sculptures to fill the space. Studies show art promotes the aesthetic-emotional experience, activating the self-rewarding nature of the brain and stimulating pleasure, health and well-being.

2. Start Small

Filling your rooms with large paintings and ornate sculptures can overwhelm your senses. Each piece will fight for attention and the whole area will feel a chaotic mix of designs.

Start small and look for ways to utilize artwork to brighten overlooked areas in your apartment. You might be surprised by the massive impact smaller pieces can have. Additionally, acquiring your collection one piece at a time allows you to uncover your artistic tastes while experimenting with ways to fill awkward corners and spaces with visual intrigue.

You can find bronze sculptures for sale here or through an online search, plus plenty of painting selections. Be sure to mix up your mediums not only to avoid monotony but also to help you discover what impresses you.

3. Be Particular

Art curation can be overwhelming when you’re beginning your collection. Going piece by piece is a gentler approach to becoming an art enthusiast, but being selective about your choices is also critical. You might risk a massive design faux pas if you purchase all of your art at once.

Purchasing your first work of art is the stepping stone to creating an immaculate collection for your luxury apartment. Your first piece may be an obvious choice for you, so build off that painting, print or sculpture to shape the rest of your art design.

Figuring out how to illuminate what you acquire is just as important — particularly in dark areas where it might get lost. Consider the finishes and decide what sort of lighting works best. For instance, framed acrylic paintings, watercolors and photographs may require LED lights to prevent glare and shine from the glass.

4. Budget

Art can be expensive — and as a young adult just starting to source art, you might be seeing dollar signs everywhere.

Any art collector will agree you don't have to fill your apartment with rare paintings from renowned artists and break the bank. Set aside a budget for your art collection and determine what you can currently afford. Wanting to add unique pieces to your space is understandable, but affordable alternatives are usually available.

For example, limited edition prints are original artwork an artist sells for a specific time in small batches. If you’re all about having something unique, try finding a few artists you love and research the next time they’ll be doing a limited run.

5. Buy Commissioned Art

The art sales market has increased 17% after a significant drop during the pandemic — and while there's been an uptick of 5.3 million more transactions since 2020, it's still below pre-pandemic figures.

Artists rely on collectors to earn an income. As such, commissioning your first significant piece may do two things — allow you to include a fully-personalized, unique work that stands out and support struggling artists.

Commissions are more accessible than ever as more independent artists find their way to online and mobile sales platforms, reaching broader audiences and deepening connections with art collectors. If an artist is open for commissions, inquire about their prices and what kind of piece you would like.

Surround Yourself With Beautiful Art at Home

Learning how to curate your art collection for your luxury apartment can tie together a design that speaks to your personality and passions. It also helps you create a beautiful space that feels like an art museum, heightening the atmosphere of daily life and any events you hold.

Use these tips to determine the best way to fill your home with art that speaks to your tastes and accentuates your living space.

Author

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications.

Our Favorite Listing For The Week: With Views of Empire State Building

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you should make an appointment for this week. 

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more! And be sure to view our new Listings Calendar

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Madison House Residence 58A | $13,950,000

This 3,391 square foot four-bedroom, four and a half-bath residence opens into an elegant entry foyer, leading to a living and dining room encased with 10-foot tall windows with North, East and West views. Gachot-designed custom rift-cut cabinetry accentuates the open kitchen, with a honed Calacatta Borghini marble waterfall island and backsplash. Gaggenau appliances including a cooktop, combi-steam oven, convection double oven, refrigerator, and wine refrigerator outfit the kitchen. White oak 5-inch plank floors and 9-foot solid walnut doors are featured throughout the residence.

A private vestibule separates the living area from the primary bedroom suite, creating a sense of privacy. A chic walk-in closet designed by DDC with functionality and durability in mind, features reflective smoked glass, custom shelving and integrated LED lighting. The en suite master bath offers honed Bianco Dolomiti marble on the walls as well as floors, which are heated, with a custom Gachot-designed vanity and mirror. Platinum matte Dornbracht fixtures accentuate the vanity, Kaldewei tubs and Durivit toilet. A striking powder room with honed Calacatta Nuevo and Absolute black marble walls complemented by a Gachot-designed custom vanity with Dornbracht fixtures is situated thoughtfully off the entry foyer.

In the heart of stylish NoMad, Madison House offers unsurpassed panoramic views of New York City, where every residence has a corner window and 11-foot ceilings or higher. With architecture by Handel and interiors by Gachot, these homes start 150 feet in the air and soar to over 800 feet. Extraordinary views are forever in style.

Madison House offers a double-height attended lobby and 30,000 square feet of amenities. These include a spa with 75-foot lap pool, cold plunge, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and treatment room. A 2nd floor 2,800 square foot roof garden. 5th floor double height Gachot-designed private lounge and bar, 14-seat private dining room with a demonstration and catering kitchen, conference room, card room and reading room. State-of-the-art exercise room, separate yoga room, and 6th floor sports lounge with a golf simulator, billiards table and children’s playroom. One-to four bedroom residences in the heart of the stylish NoMad design district.

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96+Broadway, Launches Sales of Residences In Upper West Side

Sales have launched at 96+Broadway, the much-anticipated Upper West Side luxury condominium building situated on 250 West 96th Street, between Riverside Park and Central Park. Developed by JVP Management, a private real estate development and investment firm, and designed by NYC-based Danish designer Thomas Juul-Hansen, 96+Broadway delivers chic sophistication and timeless design—combined with a suite of premium amenities designed for modern living—to an iconic city intersection that is being redefined for generations of New Yorkers, both new and established. The 23-story building features a diverse mix of 131 skillfully-crafted residences ranging from one- to five-bedroom layouts with pricing starting at $1.395 million for a one bedroom.

“As a long-time Upper Westsider myself, this project was very personal. In fact, my family will live in the building when it is completed,” says the developer, Van Nguyen of JVP Management. “In taking on this project, we saw a truly unique opportunity to help define a prominent corner of the Upper West Side. Guided by the experience of living in New York, we wanted to develop a building which meets future residents’ needs while adding to and improving on the rich history and environment of the neighborhood.”

Achieving a balanced aesthetic that celebrates an iconic neighborhood, Juul-Hansen’s design for 96+Broadway incorporates elegant Jura gray limestone imported from sustainable German stone producer Franken-Schotter—a nod to the Upper West Side’s penchant for spectacular limestone Beaux Arts structures. Generous loft-like windows and staggered terraces create a sophisticated grid pattern paired with the limestone, ushering the past into the present through clean, modern lines that are accentuated by burnished bronze-finished framing. Inside, the building’s monumental lobby features soaring 20-foot ceilings, oversized windows that invite plenty of natural light inward, as well as a ground-level courtyard where residents can lounge outdoors. A centerpiece of the lobby is a striking welcome desk that was carved out of a monolithic block of Silver Travertine, emphasizing Juul-Hansen’s dedication to exquisite quality in his design.

Organic materials become a focal point in each home with open-plan living rooms that display extra-wide, 7.5-inch European white oak flooring and lead out into Juliet balconies or terraces with arched, custom-designed, bronze-finished balusters in select residences. Kitchens are defined by Italian-crafted solid oak cabinets and drawers with exposed dovetail joinery and earthy desert quartzite slab kitchen countertops and islands, as well as equipped with Sub-Zero Wolf appliances. Primary bathrooms are finished in heated herringbone-patterned Truffle White marble flooring and feature a Waterworks soaking tub (and fittings) enveloped by Bianco Dolomiti marble, which also extends its cladding to the walls and floor.

In addition to spacious, refined homes, 96+Broadway will offer an impressive indoor and outdoor amenities package with comprehensive wellness features. At basement level, a grand 75-foot saltwater pool features wall-to-ceiling geometric Hemlock wood paneling and travertine floors for a sauna-inspired experience; while an invigorating spa suite creates moments for indulgence and self-care without having to step outside of the building. For those who prefer an adrenaline rush, 96+Broadway will offer a fully-equipped fitness center and Pilates room as well as a regulation squash court with basketball hoop. Both the indoor pool and fully-equipped fitness center open to a sunken terrace, which allows natural light into the space. To complete the indoor amenities offerings, a children’s playroom and separate entertainment lounge provide spaces for residents of all ages to kick back and relax, while a music room furnished with guitars, a grand piano, keyboard, and electronic drumset facilitates any burgeoning musician—protecting the sanctity of peace and quiet for the rest of the family. Outdoors, an elegantly landscaped rooftop terrace boasts stunning views of the New York skyline and the Hudson River. Atop the expansive terrace, residents can enjoy a truly unique offering: an exclusive outdoor cinema that presents ample opportunities for entertaining along with cozy lounge seating and an outdoor kitchen with multiple adjacent dining areas.

Compass Development Marketing Group is the exclusive sales and marketing agent for 96+Broadway.

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"Selling the Hamptons" star Bianca D'Alessio Hosts Hamptons 30th Birthday Soiree At Parrish Art Museum

“Selling The Hamptons” TV star Bianca D’Alessio just celebrated her 30th birthday with a lavish soiree in the Parrish Art Museum in the Hamptons. The real estate star danced through the night with family, friends, fellow cast members, power brokers and Nest Seekers International CEO, Eddie Shapiro. Camera crews were spotted at the lavish event, as filming for Season 2 of the show is underway.

Photo’s courtesy of @captured_bynico

Bianca and her team, The Masters Division, had a lot of other successes to celebrate in addition to her milestone birthday, including recent record-breaking real estate deals they’ve achieved in New York City. The iconic Herzog & de Meuron Architects-designed venue in Water Mill was the perfect backdrop for special evening, which featured unique touches throughout - a Vintage Rose Hamptons Tap Truck, signature cocktails, light bites and passed canapes, music by DJ Aiden Jude, a lineup of enchanting cabaret and burlesque-inspired performances by dancers from The Box, cake by Master Sweets, a candy cart by The Candy Anchor and “Selling The Hamptons” beach bag essentials/takeaways.

Guests include fellow cast members and colleagues including Mia Calabrese (who was also celebrating her birthday!), J.B. Andreassi, Michael Fulfree, Kenny Arias, Peggy Zabakolas, Justin Mezzatesta and other tastemakers including founder of retail brand Island To East Side, Christina Carmona, dental influencer and founder of Maison BE luxury dental studio, Dr. Bridget Glazarov and more.

Healthy Protein-Rich Chili recipe for Your Next Cookout

Summer is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate the sunshine and clear blue skies than with a good old-fashioned cookout. If you are looking for a warm and hearty dish that provides protein-packed, nourishing ingredients, consider the delightful chili recipe found below.

Chili is an easy and versatile dish that has room to incorporate tons of different proteins and veggies. 

If you want to take your homemade chili recipe up a notch, consider adding a bone broth. This is a great, nutritious way to incorporate more high-quality protein. 

This additional protein can make the dish more filling and provide many essential vitamins and minerals.

Bone broths made from animals, such as beef, are rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium. These minerals are essential for helping to maintain the health of our bones. You can also find bone broths made from fish, which contain a good source of iodine, an essential nutrient for thyroid health and metabolism [1, 2].

As you can see, bone broths and bone broth protein powders can provide more benefits than additional protein. 

The amino acids glycine and arginine in bone broth have provided significant anti-inflammatory benefits. Bone broth is also rich in collagen, a protein found in bones, tendons, and ligaments. 

When broken down into a liquid, this easily digestible compound can help to support joint health [3, 4].

For the weight conscious, bone broth is low in calories and high in protein. This combination allows you to get full by consuming less, just like a protein bar can provide a convenient and nutritious way to stay satisfied between meals.

This makes it the optimal ingredient to toss into any savory dish in place of regular broth or stock. Some studies have even found the collagen in bone broth to help increase muscle mass when combined with regular resistance training [5, 6].

Lastly, bone broth may also help you sleep. Studies have found that amino acid glycine can help you better relax. Regular consumption of glycine-rich foods, such as bone broth, can help to support more restful sleep and improve mental focus during the day [7].

Incorporating this convenient product into your routine improves your overall nutrition, but it also helps support a healthy weight, restful sleep, and more productive days. What’s not to love?

Aside from its myriad of health benefits, bone broth is incredibly versatile. 

Bone broths and bone broth powders, such as Naked Nutrition’s Naked Broth protein powder, can be easily incorporated into many different savory dishes, including soups, stews, chilis, casseroles, and more. 

To see how to easily incorporate bone broth protein into a dish, check at the bone broth vegetable chili recipe below.

Bone Broth Vegetable Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 1 small zucchini, chopped

• 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 2 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp oregano

• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1 (15-ounce can tomato sauce

• 1 (4-ounce) can green chilis

• 1 (15-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 scoops Naked Nutrition bone broth protein powder 

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or beef stock

Directions:

1. Place a large pot over medium heat.

2. Once the pot is fully heated, heat olive oil.

3. Once olive oil is heated, sauté diced onions and bell pepper until onions are translucent (about 2-3 minutes).

4. Next, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

5. While the onions and garlic are cooking, combine the bone broth powder with stock, blend together until smooth. (You can also do this in a shaker bottle if you don’t have a blender or food processor on hand).

6. Add zucchini, seasonings, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilis, kidney beans, black beans, and bone broth stock to pot and mix until well combined.

7. Turn the heat down to low and simmer covered for about 60 minutes.

8. Last, top with favorite toppings (recommended toppings include avocado, non-fat plain Greek yogurt, cheese, and/or cilantro).

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ODA Brings Signature Fractal Design to Billionaire’s Row

Yesterday, Construction has just started at 126 East 57th street, a project designed by architect ODA, with interiors designed by Gabellini Sheppard and developed by owner MRR 1326 LLC, a company owned by Anand Mahindra and Real Estate Developers Rotem Rosen and Zahi Hagag.

The site spans the width of a city block from 56th to 57th street, with a plan to erect a 175,000 SF tower. Almost all units would have private outdoor terraces, pixelating the cast-in-place concrete façade with projections and recesses. The residential entrance is planned to be on 57th street, bringing residents through a copper mirrored gateway into a 6-story tall atrium with views to a lushly landscaped courtyard. A gallery will lead residents to the lobby and access to the 28-story residential tower. An alternate entrance to the lobby would be through a porte cochere at 56th street for car drop off.

"This building brings a human scale, playfulness and visual interest to this upscale corridor of 57th Street,” Said Eran Chen, Founder and Executive Director of ODA. “As New York City slowly transforms Midtown East to a residential destination, we strive to offer a contemporary outlook for the taste makers and young professional buyers who value high design."

The unique footprint and layouts allowed ODA to prioritize multiple amenity experiences, a sprinkling of interconnected and intimate moments throughout the building, that will give residents a variety of spaces to relax and explore just a stone's throw from their front door. This ecosystem is designed to foster community in the building, enriching the resident experience.

The extravagant amenity package is planned to begin on the two sublevels, which will include an exercise room, sports court, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms. The 2nd floor is planned to have an intimate private lounge and kitchen offering residents an alternative study or work space, connected to a cozy furnished courtyard complete with an outdoor kid’s playground, a communal greenhouse and an outdoor cinema amphitheater overlooking the main entrance.

The 11th floor will offer a 3,350 square foot party room with prep kitchen meant for socializing and entertaining with access to a large, covered terrace with bar and private cabanas. The penthouse units on the 28th floor will have access to their own roof terraces through private interior stairs. The roof’s communal amenity terrace will give the building’s residents space to sunbathe and grill.

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5 Compromises You Should Never Make in an Apartment Search

Finding a new apartment is rarely an easy experience in NYC and almost no one finds one that ticks off all their boxes. If you have a mile-long wish list and can’t find the perfect place, it may be time to adjust your expectations.

Real estate in the city is hard to come by, so you might need to make a few sacrifices to find something you can live with. However, just because you need to let go of a few of your wish list items doesn’t mean you need to throw all your standards out the window.

If you adjust your expectations too far, you may end up with a source of extreme frustration. When searching for the perfect place, avoid compromising on these five items.

1. Your Budget

You only want to wiggle in your budget by coming in under your estimate. Before getting serious about your apartment search, sit down with your finances and decide on a hard number you don’t want to exceed per month.

Remember you may have other monthly fees associated with your living situation like utilities, insurance, parking or fees to use amenities.Of course, this is easier said than done in a real estate market where rents are rising and competition is heated. As of this summer, only 23% of New Yorkers can afford to pay the median rent price, and qualified applicants are queuing for available units in many neighborhoods.

In this scenario, the best move is to get a good picture of current rent prices and decide on your limit from there. This will give you time to think through your other expenses and make cuts to accommodate as needed. You’ll still go in with a plan to manage your total costs, and that helps.

2. Viewing the Exact Unit

You’ve found a perfect place online. It checks off everything on your wishlist and seems like a steal. You ask the landlord for a tour, but they tell you that one isn’t ready to move in yet. They can show you a similar unit in the meantime.

Sometimes deals seem too good to be true for a reason.

Steer clear of situations like this and avoid signing a lease for an apartment you haven’t walked through before. You could end up saddled with a unit in poor condition or utterly different from the one you toured. If you can’t see the apartment you want to rent, it may be better to walk away.

3. Proximity to Essentials

Location is everything, and it’s important to be realistic about what is important to you in a neighborhood. You’ll want to find an apartment close to your personal essentials. Are you a gym enthusiast or a Thai food addict? Look for space in a building nearby as many of your desires.

At the very least, you’ll want to be able to pick up pantry staples close by and do your laundry if machines aren’t available in your building. Being able to walk to a grocer or at least take a short subway trip will save you from lugging bags back and forth whenever you’re looking to cook.

You may need to compromise slightly when it comes to the wants on your list, but decide on the necessities you can’t live without and don’t wiggle on them.

4. Basic Amenities

Amenities can significantly increase the cost to rent in a particular building. While some are nice to have, you may be able to scale back on extras like in-house dry cleaning or a coffee cart. Weed through your list and sort them into “Nice to Have,” “Really Want” and “Must Have”.

After sorting, you should have a short list with just a few items you aren’t willing to negotiate. Perhaps you can let go of needing air conditioning, but a working elevator is necessary.

You should also check that basic appliances are included in the rental agreement, such as a stove, refrigerator and microwave. In-unit or in-building laundry is also a necessity if you don’t relish walking your laundry to a laundromat once a week.

5. Condition 

A good landlord knows the lobby is their first opportunity to make a lasting impression, so looking around can tell you a lot about the long-term maintenance of the building. If the entry is filthy and appears in disrepair, you can probably expect a similar lack in the rest of the building.

On the other hand, well-maintained communal spaces are a possible sign of a landlord who pays excellent care and attention to their facility.

Likewise, you want to find a unit that’s in good condition. If major repairs need to be made, walk away or get the landlord’s promise in writing to complete them in a timely manner.

Trust Your Gut While Searching for Apartments

Knowing where and when to compromise is challenging, as is the NYC market. However, you need to know what you are and aren’t willing to live with. Establishing what you refuse to compromise on will help you as you start your search.

Hiring an apartment broker can save you time in your search and help you find the right fit for you without making too many compromises on essential items.

Author

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications.

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Andrew Feldman Joins Corcoran

Andrew Feldman

The Corcoran Group, announced today that Andrew Feldman is joining the firm. Feldman will be affiliated with Corcoran's East Side office on Madison Avenue, led by Senior Managing Directors Helen Monti and Tim Rettaliata. 

Feldman, who joins Corcoran from Compass, has over twenty years of extensive experience in the real estate industry. Having started his career in the commercial sector before shifting to residential and new development sales, he has achieved over $500M in lifetime transactions. Whether working with buyers or sellers, Feldman uses his keen negotiation skills to ensure his clients always receive the best deal. Always interested in going beyond, Feldman also leads the charge in adopting new industry technology to grow his business and service his clients. 

"Andrew has been an agent we've had our eye on for a long time, and we're thrilled to finally bring him on board," said Monti. "With his enthusiasm for new advancements in the industry and big ideas, he has already proven himself to be a great asset to our office."

Feldman remarked on his move, "I joined Corcoran because of the robust technology the brokerage offers its agents and the way agents are set up for success with incredible support from the entire team. Since I walked through the doors, everyone at Corcoran has been warm and welcoming, embracing me as if I were a family member. I'm excited to see what I can accomplish using its valuable tools and resources to push my business to the next level."

Andrew Feldman is a native New Yorker who started his career as a chef. He spends his time trying new restaurants in the city, enjoying the theater and live music, cooking for friends, and volunteering with organizations supporting children with cancer and wounded veterans.

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Homes With The Best New Commute, The Ferry

As offices and restaurants begin to reopen, many New Yorkers are starting to plot their future commutes, dreading the crowded subway they used to hop on without a second thought and imagining a better way to travel. One transportation alternative that comes to mind for many is the ferry: a breezy, open-air commute that takes less time than the subway, car or bike, and provides ample space (not to mention iconic skyline views!) along the way. 

QUAY TOWER (Brooklyn Heights)

Courtesy RAL Companies and Oliver's Realty Group

Situated right on the Brooklyn Heights waterfront, mere steps from the ferry stop at Pier 6, Quay Tower – the record-setting condo tower – couldn't be any closer to the ferry. Residents enjoy an easy, breezy open-air commute to FiDi and Midtown. Proximity to the ferry has been a major selling point for the development. Even the building's penthouse buyer, who just closed on his home for $20M+, the most expensive home sale in Brooklyn history, was lured to Quay Tower by the ease of a ferry commute. With architecture by ODA's Eran Chen and cool, California-modernist interiors by AD100 firm Marmol Radziner, Quay Tower offers a serene indoor/outdoor lifestyle that's inspired by surrounding Brooklyn Bridge Park. Homes start at $1.675M for a two-bedroom. 

FRONT & YORK (DUMBO)

Credit: Williams New York

Located in Brooklyn’s dynamic waterfront neighborhood of DUMBO, Front & York positions residents within minutes of the Financial District via the ferry, a brief and scenic open-air commute across the East River that takes only four minutes. The ferry offers numerous departure and arrival times throughout rush hour each day, making the commute an absolute breeze. Front & York residents can enjoy the quick walk to the terminal from the development, which has been designed with double-wide sidewalks to prioritize pedestrians. Designed inside and out by Morris Adjmi, Front & York offers spacious homes with unobstructed views of the iconic Manhattan skyline and an unprecedented amenity-rich lifestyle, including a private park and a co-working lounge for residents looking for a balance between working from their apartment and going into the office.

AVORA AT PORT IMPERIAL (Weehawken)

Credit: Courtesy of Avora

Situated on the Hudson River waterfront at Weehawken’s Port Imperial, Avora is a luxury residential oasis enveloped in breathtaking views, natural light and beautiful, fresh air. Developed by Landsea Homes – a leading international homebuilding and development company sought across the United States, Europe and Asia for its high-performance, high-quality homes – Avora is a LEED silver certified development that combines 184 one- to three-bedroom residences with an incredible array of resort-style amenities paired with immediate access to Manhattan to offer the ultimate Gold Coast lifestyle. The building is located right at the Port Imperial ferry stop. Many residents in the building travel to and from the city via ferry.

ELLIPSE (Newport)

Credit: Courtesy of LeFrak

Located on the waterfront of Jersey City’s thriving Newport neighborhood and designed by internationally-acclaimed design firm Arquitectonica, Ellipse has upped the ante for luxury living in Jersey City, with spacious waterfront homes and Manhattan-style amenities. For those commuting into Manhattan but looking for an alternative to the PATH, Newport provides easy access to the NY Waterway into Midtown Manhattan, an enjoyable commute in the fresh outdoor air. Residents of Ellipse are moments from several ferry stops: the Hoboken Terminal, accessed via a scenic walk along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, as well as the Paulus Hook terminal. NY Waterway also announced last year that ferry service will resume between Manhattan and Newport in the future as well, making for even more options and an even easier commute from Ellipse.

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Create the perfect sweet platter for your summer feast

Alongside enjoying some fresh and fruity rum-based cocktails, people generally tuck into an array of grub in the summer months. From having a picnic in the park to relaxing on the beach with a homemade feast, you can’t beat eating outside in the sunshine, can you? 

While fruit-themed desserts and slices of cake are a welcome addition to any summer feast, a sweet platter is something that is relatively easy to prepare while also making for a real showstopper of a dessert for your sunny get-together. Sweet platters can withstand the heat, too, although that obviously depends on what you decide to incorporate into your platter of treats. For many people, sweets, much like the sweet delights featured in the Sweet Bonanza slot, are the perfect after-dinner feast. Other people might prefer fruit and chocolate, though. Ultimately, however you decide to present your sweet platter is up to you.

A balanced platter is recommended 

While what you decide to put on your platter is your choice, it’s generally recommended that it does have some balance. Typically, in the summer months, people gather for feasts of this type, making it important to factor in everyone’s individual tastes. For example, some people simply don’t like sweets, while others prefer fruit and chocolate. In order to cater for everyone, consider mixing it up as much as you can. Go-to options include small chocolates and sweets, peanut butter cups, biscuits or cookies, pieces of cake, dried fruit, cheese and crackers, and a whole lot more. There are no rules, but always be sure to provide variety. 

You can also make the platter more exotic by adding unconventional items from around the world. Many look into options for Dutch cheese that can be added to crackers. Adding rare fruits from tropical regions like dragon fruit and rambutan, for instance, is an exciting way to mix up the traditional summer platter.

Platter board options 

Once you’ve nailed down your selection of treats, you’ll need to find the perfect board to put them on. Not everyone owns a platter board, but you don’t necessarily need one. For example, great alternatives include a breadboard or chopping board, a baking tray, a marble pastry board, a serving tray, a giant plate, or even a basket of some kind. Ultimately, you need a solid and cool home for your selection of sweet treats. It doesn’t need to be fancy, and it certainly doesn’t need to cost a lot. 

Presentation is key 

While the platter board options available to you are extensive, the presentation of your board generally needs to be in one way; tidy and tasty. After all, people eat with their eyes, don’t they? As such, it’s hugely important that you make it seem as appealing as possible otherwise, your platter might not be empty come the end of your memorable feast. For example, always leave things in their natural state as much as you can, be it grapes on the vine or cherries on the stem. Likewise, if you’re adding fruit coated in chocolate, make sure they have a special place on the board. Sliced fruit goes down extremely well also, as does chocolate in its wrappers. As we’ve said, though, this is essentially subjective. What might look good to you could look bad to others, but have fun with it and always make sure there is thought behind where you’re placing a particular item. 

Provide bowls 

While everyone grabbing a handful of treats can work, in the hot weather it could easily result in a melted mess. With that in mind, make sure there are bowls or small drinking glasses provided for people to house their delicious delights. Some things just require bowls, and this is most definitely one of them. 

Other things to keep in mind include making sure there are no spaces on your platter, bringing utensils, and bringing a sweet and refreshing drink as an accompaniment.

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Wines You Can't Miss Out On This Month

Each month we scour the world for some new wines that we can’t wait to share with you. From Long Island to New Zealand, no wine is off-limit. Perfect for a night in, or a collector’s piece for your top shelf, here are our favorite wines for July.

PARTY Prosecco Rosé

Vera Wang is proud to announce the expansion of PARTY, her premium Italian prosecco – made for celebrating life's moments, big and small – with the launch of PARTY Prosecco Rosé, just in time for summer!

Vera Wang has turned her creativity and passion for design toward how — and what — we celebrate. Vera Wang PARTY embodies the Bright, FUN, and Fashion-Forward side of the globally renowned Designer and Style Icon. The Prosecco Rosé is light and crisp, making the perfect warm-weather sip. The second bottling comes in the brand's signature chic, sleek matte silver bottle with "PARTY" in a pink hue and a matching ombre.

"I am excited to introduce PARTY's newest wine just in time for summer. The Prosecco Rosé is extremely versatile and pairs well with all of your favorite seasonal cuisines – barbecue, seafood, al fresco brunch – and entertaining occasions," says Vera Wang. "Prosecco isn't just for special occasions. Whether you are celebrating by yourself as a party of one, or with friends, PARTY is about toasting the every day."

Unánime Pinot Noir

From Mascota Vineyards, the Unánime Pinot Noir (SPR: $24.99) is a subtle, delicate pinot noir with sliced-strawberry and lemon aromas, following through to a medium body, fine tannins and a delicious finish which will be your summer wine and perfect transition wine well into the fall.

Robert Mondavi Winery Estates Red Blend Oakville 2019

A true reflection of place, this wine boasts rich, complex flavors and is made up of grapes from To Kalon Vineyard, the special sight that Robert Mondavi chose for the winery in 1966. This red blend is made up of 49% Cabernet Franc, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and aged for 21 months in French oak barrels (100% new). Aromas of blackberry, cherry, toasted almond, bay leaf and mocha, lead to a palate of luscious ripe cherry and cassis with savory notes of dried herbs. This well-balanced body with a slight weight is characterized by classic fine To Kalon tannins.

Medlock Ames 2019 Secret Ingredient Malbec

The Medlock Ames 2019 Secret Ingredient Malbec (SRP: $70) has a nose filled with Christmas spice and floral perfume - but don't let these holiday mentions stray you from a summer sip, as it is ideal for anything off the barbecue. The intense palate bursts with flavors of dark roasted coffee, violets, black plum, and pastry crust. The mouthfeel is vibrant and lush with a rich tannin structure that peaks and then softly resolves on the finish.

2019 Les Pierres Chardonnay

2019 Les Pierres Chardonnay – exemplifying Sonoma-Cutrer’s Grand Cru approach to winemaking, the wine is barrel-fermented on the lees in one-year-old oak for five months. Individual block components are then blended to create the cuveìe and placed in three-year-old oak for additional aging. Bottled in February 2021 the wine was bottle-aged for an additional six months before releasing. (SRP: $46)

Trapiche Medalla Malbec 2019

Intense purple with violet tones. Concentrated aromas of red berries, plums, cherries and raisins, highlighted by notes of toast, coconut and vanilla from aging in new French oak barrels. In the mouth the wine reveals its best attributes with a sweet entry, soft and intense tannins that give creaminess, volume and meatiness. The flavors of ripe fruit stand perfectly amalgamated with spicy and smoky wood, leaving a pleasant and persistent finish.

2019 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon

2019 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley (SRP: $50) will fill you with the unmistakable pure expression of Napa Valley Cabernet, yet the price will not give you any guilt for enjoying it on your couch on a Tuesday night. Layered with soft red fruit flavors, leather, cassis and elegant botanical accents on the mid-palate and lovely notes of toasted espresso beans on the finish, you might choose to pretend every day is National Wine Day just so you can relive this bottle over and over again.

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Our Favorite Listing For The Week: Williamsburg Apartment With Private Yard Hits The Market in Time for Summer

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you should make an appointment for this week. 

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more! And be sure to view our new Listings Calendar

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143 Powers Street Unit #1 | $2,495,000 | Agent: Jessica Peters of Douglas Elliman

This boutique condominium is perfectly positioned in prime Williamsburg. You are in close proximity to all this exciting neighborhood has to offer, but tranquilly tucked away on a picturesque, tree-lined street. Comprised of six units, the building features four one-bedroom (1BR) homes graciously proportioned with high ceilings and extra-large windows. These residences are bookended by a floor-through garden duplex and a sunlit floor-through two-bedroom (2BR) penthouse (PH) with a large private roof deck. Additionally, there is an expansive common roof deck with sweeping City views and common storage.

Unit 1 is a one-of-a-kind sprawling 2 bedroom / 2.5 bathroom duplex apartment with a spectacular private yard. With over 2,000 sqft of interior living space, this home epitomizes the luxe lifestyle of your dreams. A sun-drenched private yard completes the fantasy by creating the perfect balance of escape and entertainment. Unit 1 offers a unique opportunity to combine the size of a townhouse with the modern amenities of a condo. With ample indoor / outdoor spaces to accommodate all your needs, this home truly has it all. Additionally, Unit 1 features a fully integrated Smart Home system. You seamlessly control the Bluetooth enabled speakers throughout, custom electronic curtains, and the security and lighting systems. It’s almost like modern magic! Be the first to experience this Brooklyn bliss – it won’t be on the market for long!

Swoon-worthy residence features include wide-plank, white oak flooring and sleek custom wood cabinetry. The integrated appliance package beautifully compliments unique and stylish green Bertazzoni, Liebherr, Quartz countertops and Stainless Steel sinks. A Blomberg washer/dryer is included as well as Mitsubishi electric ducted split systems. High-end, full height windows round out the modern design. The bathrooms are equally spacious and stylish, featuring porcelain tiles, a Kohler tub with Newport Brass trim, Duravit toilets, and? Kohler sinks. Large vanities provide ample storage.

Carefully crafted with a focus on a clean aesthetic, these residences offer a blend of contemporary finishes while remaining timeless – making for an amazing investment opportunity or a place to truly call home.

143 Powers Street is a stone’s throw away from Williamsburg’s most exciting restaurants, bars, cafes and shops on Graham, Grand Street and Metropolitan Avenues. Some favorites include Concord Hill, Mesa Coyoacan, Basik, Harefield Road, Hungry Ghost Coffee, Grass Roots Juicery, and many more! You are also a short distance from the renovated Cooper Park, which offers a farmer’s market on Saturdays in the late spring / summer months, a dog run, and tennis & basketball courts. The Graham Avenue L train is conveniently located three blocks away, making for a dream commute. Enjoy all conveniences of prime Williamsburg with the added serenity of a residential vibe – you can have it all at 143 Powers Street!

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Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Former Midtown Pad Hits the Market

Ever wanted to walk into Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs home, and live the life of luxury? Now’s your chance, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs former Manhattan apartment has just hit the market for $5,995,000 with The Didier Team at Douglas Elliman. The rapper, producer, and entrepreneur bought the 2,300-square-foot condo at 230 West 56th Street back in 2005 and sold it in 2017.

Since its last time on the market, the unit has undergone a complete renovation. With interior design by New York-based architect, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Residence 66A is comprised of three-bedroom three-and-a-half bathroom and features high ceilings, gracious proportions and the rich attention to detail of a privately commissioned home.

Five Star Living at The Park Imperial residences has continued the tradition of Related's exclusive collection of luxury properties.

This groundbreaking concept ensures buyers receive the best in every aspect of the luxury residential experience: inspired architecture and design, the most desirable location, captivating views, superior service, world-class amenities and services and a sustainable lifestyle.

With interior design by New York-based architect, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Residence 66A is a 2,300 SF (230 SM) north and east-facing newly renovated three bedroom three and a half bath featuring high ceilings, gracious proportions and the rich attention to detail of a privately commissioned home. Interior features include 7 ft wide plank solid wood floors.

The Kitchen includes top of the line appliances, vented hood, oven, dishwasher, and Sub-Zero refrigerator. The master bath is customized with cream and wood finishes that match the elegance and sophistication of this residence. The master bath also features radiant heat floors and upgraded hardware.

High above Central Park with approximately 40 feet of frontage, a few blocks away to Fifth Avenue and mere blocks from Central Park, with 70 floors and only 111 residences with super-luxury services and amenities.

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