Macy’s Flower Show Is Open and Turns 50!

The 50th annual Macy’s Flower Show opened in Herald Square on Sunday, transforming the iconic department store into a breathtaking garden filled with thousands of lush plants and flowers. In honor of its semicentennial, this year’s event has been extended to three weeks of festivities, running through May 18. The show also features a partnership with YSL Beauty, offering an immersive experience that encourages guests to embrace freedom and celebrate the transformative power of nature.

For five decades, the cherished event has given visitors a chance to witness thousands of vibrant flowers blooming together across the store’s famed window displays, balconies, and main floor.

The show debuted in California in 1946 to promote fragrances in the cosmetics department before coming to Herald Square in 1975 and quickly becoming a beloved yearly tradition, as 6sqft previously reported.

Hours of careful work go into producing the spectacle, which features 8,000 plants and 50,000 stems that blend together in banana-yellow blooms, pink swirls, and purple necklaces, according to the New York Times. Each night, watering the display takes approximately six to nine hours, as workers carefully climb ladders to reach plants tucked into high and hard-to-access corners of the department store.

The installation is designed to conform to the building’s unique interior—”defined generations ago” by architects and engineers—with each pillar encased in “column surrounds” that are first wrapped in cloud-printed blue vinyl and then adorned with layers of vibrant flowers, according to Will Coss, the Macy’s executive who oversees events like the Flower Show, in an interview with Times.

This year’s show features an immersive installation from YSL Beauty, “Beauty Art of Flowers.” The exhibition invites visitors into a world where natural beauty reigns and challenges the norm. The experience begins outside, where guests are greeted by colorful floral decorations adorning Macy’s 34th Street facade.

Inside, the journey continues with a bold landscape showcasing the main olfactive notes in YSL Beauty’s new Libre L’eau Nue line—the brand’s first alcohol-free citrus floral scent. According to a press release, the scent uses unique oil-in-water “fragrance proprietary technology.”

Next, visitors encounter a captivating display inspired by the powerful scent of Libre, with fresh lavender and golden orange blossoms decorating the space. The Flower Show then evolves into a dazzling experience, adorned with ferns and geraniums, channeling the energy of YSL Beauty’s “MYSLF” line

Guests then move through an engaging blue space inspired by Y, where fresh sage and stunning blue geranium flowers surround and excite onlookers. The journey culminates in a pop-up boutique, where guests can try YSL’s new Loveshine Plumping Lip Oil Gloss.

Visitors will also receive gifted lily-filled bouquets, couture personalization exclusive to Macy’s Flower Show, on-site bottle engraving and watercolor art, and limited-edition flower charms.

“YSL Beauty US is thrilled to be partnering with Macy’s for their 2025 Flower Show, a true retail statement from an iconic retailer. Flowers, in their daring and raw beauty, are at the heart of our products, but also our brand—and have served as a constant source of inspiration for M. Saint Laurent,” Juliette Ferret, U.S. general manager at YSL Beauty, said.

“They represent the vulnerability, beauty, and possibility in our world, which we try to always amplify. The YSL Beauty Art of Flowers experience epitomizes the spirit and vision of the brand and we’re honored to bring this to life.”

Other exciting partnerships for this year’s show include Lego Bloom and Beyond, an intricate, floral-themed display, a mosaic wall, and flower carts showcasing Lego Botanicals. Visitors can also participate in a “brick in hand” build experience called “Build-a-Bloom” on select days.

Additionally, Holland American Line will celebrate over 150 years of its history with a wave-inspired tulip garden that flows throughout the store, inspired by vibrant spring tulip fields.

This year’s event also includes a dedicated Macy’s Flower Show and Surrealist Garden product collection, celebrating the vibrant color experiences featured throughout the display. The collection offers exclusive items such as home goods, jewelry, and sleepwear, along with special collaborations with brands like Kendra Scott, MarieBelle, and Lovery.

“We believe in bringing events to life in our stores and this year’s 50th Macy’s Flower Show is a breathtaking example of that commitment. We create spectacular experiences throughout the year and transform our iconic Herald Square flagship into an immersive destination that inspires and delight,” Sharon Otterman, chief marketing officer at Macy’s, said.

“This spring we will welcome more than one million customers to Macy’s Flower Show to experience wonder and joy that only we can deliver.”

This year’s Flower Show comes as Macy’s continues its “Bold New Chapter” strategy, which includes closing roughly 150 underperforming stores by 2026, including five locations in New York City. In January, Macy’s sold its location at 422 Fulton Street in Downtown Brooklyn for just $23 million.

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Macy’s Flower Show turns 50 with surrealist gardens and thousands of blooms in Herald Square

By Aaron Ginsburg

May 1, 2025

All photos courtesy of Macy’s, Inc.

24 East 7th Street, Unit 9B

24 East 7th Street, Unit 9B

East Village, Manhattan

Asking $850,000

1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Don't miss an extraordinary opportunity to create your downtown dream home in this expansive one-bedroom, one-bathroom home featuring a private balcony and wide-open views in an amenity-rich, postwar East Village co-op.

A gracious foyer flanked by a coat closet welcomes you inside this incredibly spacious apartment filled with tall ceilings, parquet wood floors and plenty of wall space for artwork. Ahead, the sprawling 331-square-foot living room provides a generous footprint for seating and dining areas alongside oversized north-facing windows. The windowed kitchen accommodates abundant cabinet space and full-size appliances, while the wide balcony tempts you outside to take in unimpeded views that stretch all the way to the Chrysler building and beyond.

Past the living room, a wide hallway could easily accommodate a dressing area or home office space on the way to a king-size bedroom featuring roomy closets and south-facing views of One World Trade. A full bathroom with a large tub/shower completes the desirable layout. Bring your contractor and start planning the perfect East Village sanctuary today.

Built in 1991, 24 East 7th Street is a modern elevator building offering part-time superintendent service, virtual doorman entry, a central laundry room, resident storage, and a landscaped 7th-floor terrace with glorious views. Pieds-à-terre, parents buying for children and subletting after three years are allowed with board approval. Sorry, no dogs.

Positioned where the East Village meets NoHo and the Lower East Side, this home's vibrant neighborhood is filled with Michelin-starred restaurants, hip cocktail bars and long-time New York institutions like McSorley's, Veselka, Russ & Daughters, Katz Deli and Webster Hall. Enjoy easy access to Target, Wegmans and Whole Foods, or head to Tompkins Square Park, Washington Square Park, Union Square and Roosevelt Park for outdoor space and recreation. Transportation is effortless with 4/5/6, N/Q/R/W and L trains, excellent bus service and CitiBikes nearby.

The Monthly Update - May 2025

Are We Seeing a Seasonal Lull — or a Market Shift?

The Manhattan real estate market entered Q2 with solid momentum. Rolling 30-day contract activity crossed 1,100 — a benchmark not seen during any of the past three spring seasons. But by late April, that momentum began to slow, aligning with seasonal expectations and possible emerging economic uncertainties.

Spring breaks, religious holidays, and travel typically lead to a dip in activity this time of year. That’s part of the current story. But a few broader market signals suggest it may not be just seasonality at play.

Contract Activity: Seasonal Dip or Something More?

Only 206 contracts were signed in the final week of April, a roughly 16% drop from the prior week. While that figure is still above historical lows, it’s lighter than what’s typically needed to sustain a strong spring market.

This slowdown overlaps with Passover and Easter, which likely muted activity. Still, comparisons to 2023 — when regional banking stress pulled weekly contract signings down to 140 — suggest it’s worth watching whether this is a brief pause or a signal of a more cautious market.

Looking Ahead: Questions Remain

Heading into May, the key question is whether contract activity can rebound back well above 200 deals per week in a stable way. So far, there’s no sharp drop, but there's also no clear sign of acceleration.

As Noah Black of UrbanDigs recently noted, “We are in the midst of a shifting market. It’s too early to tell how far, how deep, or how severe the shift will be — but you can see the early stages of it developing in the data.”

Pricing data remains solid for now. Condo resale prices in March averaged $1,493 per square foot — likely reflecting contracts signed during a stronger stretch in late winter. As April closings are finalized, we expect that trend to continue in the short term, though there’s a risk that data will soften if activity remains muted.

Conclusion: A Transitional Moment

The Manhattan market appears to be in a transitional phase — not accelerating, but not sharply declining either. The coming weeks will help clarify whether April’s slowdown was a short-term seasonal pause or an early indication of broader market hesitation. For now, the data suggests a market that’s still active but more cautious as it digests new economic variables.

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Bryant Park Spring Makers Market

Every Friday - Sunday in May

Shop local at the Makers Market by Urbanspace. More than 175 vendors will showcase art, jewelry, food, and handcrafted goods at Bryant Park from April 18 through June 1.

Click HERE for more details!

Kite Festival at Brooklyn Bridge Park

May 17th, 2025

Celebrate spring at the annual Kite Festival on Saturday, May 17th! Bring your own kite, purchase one, or craft your own on-site, and enjoy a day filled with hands-on activities, classic lawn games, and family-friendly fun. Free and open to all ages.

Click HERE for more details!

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Stay Connected

As Reported by Yahoo! Finance

As Reported by Yahoo! Finance

Babe Ruth's $1.6 Million Upper West Side Apartment Is Back on the Market

201 East 21st Street, Unit 12M

201 East 21st Street, Unit 12M

Gramercy Park, Manhattan

Asking $649,000

Studio/1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Urban accessibility meets pin-drop quiet in this bright and airy home featuring gorgeous updates, excellent storage space, and an ideal location in a revered Gramercy cooperative.

Located on the 12th floor, this spacious home enjoys taller-than-average 9-foot-high ceilings, northern and eastern exposures, and an extremely quiet position at the rear of the building. A gracious foyer welcomes you inside to discover brand-new white oak floors and a roomy coat closet. The beautifully renovated and expanded open kitchen impresses with custom cabinetry, honed black granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a dining counter that’s perfect for casual dining. Ahead, the main living space flows to a wall of gorgeous built-ins with a TV niche, cabinets and shelving. From the sleeping area, two huge closets, including a walk-in, lead to a renovated full bathroom. Currently configured as an open alcove studio, this generous layout easily converts to a true one-bedroom layout, as many other M-line residents have done.

Welcome to Quaker Ridge, a classic white brick postwar co-op known for its excellent financials, low monthly maintenance and prime location just steps from Gramercy Park. Residents enjoy full-time doorman service, a live-in superintendent, laundry, bike storage and a residents-only parking garage with direct access to the building. Quaker Ridge allows co-purchasing and pets but does not permit guarantors or pieds-à-terre. Please note, there is a monthly energy charge of $84.74 included in the maintenance which adjusts quarterly.

Located minutes from Union Square, the Flatiron District and NoMad, this home is at the epicenter of exciting Manhattan living with abundant shops, restaurants, services and outdoor space at every turn. Union Square and Madison Square Park put a dog park, greenmarkets and year-round events mere blocks away, and foodies will love the proximity to Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Eataly and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Access to transportation is fantastic with 4/5/6, N/Q/R/W and L trains, excellent bus service and CitiBikes nearby.

55 Berry Street, Unit 4B

55 Berry Street, Unit 4B

Williamsburg, brooklyn

Asking $1,695,000

2 Bed  |  2 Bath | Condo

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Step into this spectacular 1,068 SF true loft condo with storage included in the heart of North Williamsburg, located in the coveted Berry Street Lofts. Apartment 4B seamlessly blends industrial charm with modern luxury, offering soaring 13-foot beamed and concrete ceilings, and expansive oversized windows that frame breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

This converted 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom loft boasts high-quality finishes throughout. The spacious high-end custom chef’s kitchen is a culinary dream, equipped with a Marvel wine cooler, Bosch dishwasher, Sub Zero refrigerator, jumbo-sized center island, extra-thick granite countertops, and a stainless steel pantry. The master suite is a sanctuary, featuring an architecturally designed limestone walk-in rain shower, custom vanity, Toto toilet, and a generous walk-in closet. Additional standout features include custom solid wood and glass sliding doors, stainless steel recessed lighting, and elegant maple floors.

The building offers impressive amenities such as a full-time doorman, bike room, a recently renovated upscale gym, and a fully furnished, landscaped common garden. The facade, systems, and windows of the building have also been upgraded to enhance your living experience.

Berry Street Lofts is a boutique 45-unit condo conversion nestled in Williamsburg’s premier historic district, just a few blocks from the Bedford L train and waterfront park/ferry. This location offers a vibrant neighborhood feel with convenient access to local shops and amenities, including Equinox, The Bath House, Whole Foods, Vital Climbing gym, McCarren Park Tennis center, the Apple Store, the William Vale, Lilia, and more.

As Reported by 6sqft.com

As Reported by 6sqft.com

Babe Ruth’s Upper West Side apartment asks $1.6M

339 East 58th Street, Unit 9F

339 East 58th Street, Unit 9F

Sutton Place, Manhattan

Asking $339,000

Studio  |  1 Bath | Co-op

 

Enjoy stunning skyline views and the Roosevelt Island Tram gliding by from this high-floor, bright, and spacious studio. Featuring new appliances, a dramatic entry hallway, and classic pre-war details, this home is set in a full-service elevator building with a doorman.

With rich wood floors, the studio offers an open, windowed kitchen with stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher. Additional highlights include a removable built-in closet, custom lights with dimmers, a ceiling fan, beamed ceilings, an open north-facing view, and a large windowed bathroom with a classic soaking tub.

The building offers a beautifully landscaped and furnished courtyard, a laundry room, and bike storage. Conveniently located near Trader Joe’s just a block away and Whole Foods on 57th St., Sutton Place parks, the East River Greenway, Citi Bike stations, top-tier restaurants, and world-class shopping along 5th Ave., including Bergdorf Goodman. Easy access to multiple transportation options, the 59th St. Bridge, Roosevelt Island via the tram, and the FDR.

As Reported by The New York Post: Babe Ruth’s longtime NYC home can be yours for $1.59M

As Reported by The New York Post:

Babe Ruth’s longtime NYC home can be yours for $1.59M

The Monthly Update - April 2025

No Fooling! The Manhattan Real Estate Market is Gaining Strength

Before we dive into the Q1 highlights, let’s rewind to understand how we got here.

After Covid, Manhattan experienced one of its busiest markets — not because prices skyrocketed, but because deal volume surged. Fast forward to June 2022: The Fed’s actions to slow the economy sent mortgage rates from 3% to 6% and even touched 8% seemingly overnight. This shift instantly stalled momentum in Manhattan’s real estate market, which was already facing challenges pre-Covid. Since then, we've seen persistently low listing inventory and weak transaction volume. There have been occasional bursts of buyer activity, but Q1 2025 is showing the strongest recovery signs we’ve seen since mid-2022. To be clear: this is not a full-blown comeback, but it's the best market activity we’ve had in about three years.

The Volume Trap

For the past three years, Manhattan has been stuck in a low-volume market. Many sellers who bought in 2015/2016 have seen little to no price appreciation — property values and median price per square foot have been flat for nearly a decade. Naturally, sellers have been reluctant to list if it means losing money. Rising interest rates didn’t help either.

But here’s the good news: In the past month, more listings have hit the market, offering buyers more choices. At the same time, mortgage rates have been gradually falling and now sit around 6.25%. Many buyers can even secure rates below 6% through relationship banking or lender incentives.

A Notable Shift

For the first time in over a year, we’ve surpassed 1,000 contracts signed in a 30-day window. The big question now is: can this momentum last? Many experts are optimistic about Q2 2025 thanks to three key factors:

• Increased inventory

• Lower interest rates

• Strong local economic indicators — including record-setting Wall Street bonuses. This year alone, $47 billion will be paid out to executives, with the lowest bonus coming in at $244,000 — enough for a healthy down payment on a Manhattan one-bedroom. Bonuses are up over 31% compared to last year, giving buyers additional purchasing power.

Pricing is Critical

Despite the encouraging signs, this isn’t a market where sellers can price aggressively. Buyers remain highly sensitive to pricing. If a property is overpriced and lingers on the market for more than 120 days, sellers typically end up accepting about 9% less than the reduced asking price. However, if a property goes into contract within the first 60 days, that discount shrinks to just 2%.

In short, correctly pricing your property is more important than ever. While we’re finally seeing promising signs — more listings, more contracts, and a stronger buyer presence — it’s still a delicate recovery. Sellers who price smartly are the ones who will secure strong offers and close with confidence.

So yes, it may be the best spring market we've had in years, but it’s still not the market to get greedy.

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Local Happenings & News

Compass says its Data Shows Benefits of 'Pre-Marketing' Listings

Compass is providing an early look at research into the impact of "pre-marketing" listings through the brokerage's Private Exclusives and/or Coming Soon channels.

Courtesy of Real Estate News

Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival

April 20, 2025

Every Easter from 10 AM to 4 PM, Fifth Avenue transforms into a vibrant spectacle as revelers don extravagant bonnets and festive attire for a tradition dating back to the 1870s. The best views are near St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but why just watch? Grab a bonnet and join the fun!

Click HERE to Learn More!

Macy's Flower Show

APRIL 27, 2025 - MAY 11, 2025

Macy’s 2025 Flower Show transforms imagination into a floral wonderland. Visitors will explore surreal gardens, drifting cloudscapes, and vibrant vistas, all bursting with dazzling installations and thousands of breathtaking blooms.

Click HERE to Learn More!

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Featured Listings

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Stay Connected

221 East 50th Street, Unit 6D/7D

221 East 50th Street, Unit 6D/7D

Midtown East

Asking $1,250,000

3 Bed  |  3 Bath | Co-op

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Step into this impeccably designed, sunlit duplex nestled in the vibrant Midtown East/Turtle Bay neighborhood.

This exceptional home seamlessly combines two units to create a spacious three-bedroom, three-bathroom residence that makes the most of its expansive layout. Whitewashed oak floors welcome you inside, where a full-width southern exposure reveals bright city views above neighboring rooftops. Custom lighting highlights the open-concept great room's airy ambiance, while the adjacent windowed kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances from Bosch, Bertazzoni, and Fisher & Paykel. Toward the rear of this level, a sizable bedroom with a generous walk-in closet sits beside a sleek, modern full bathroom.

A striking custom staircase anchors the home, featuring blackened steel supports, white oak treads, and stylish vertical slats. Ascend to the upper level, where the luxurious primary suite offers another walk-in closet, a spacious windowed en-suite bathroom, and innovative full-height electrolytic glass panels that shift from transparent to opaque with the flip of a switch. The third bedroom, located at the rear of this floor, is complemented by another full bathroom and a convenient in-unit washer-dryer. Thoughtfully designed details include custom closets, recessed lighting, HVAC units enclosed in sleek cabinetry, under-cabinet lighting, premium hardware, and custom millwork, reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship throughout the home.

Located at 221 East 50th Street, this well-maintained postwar co-op features a live-in superintendent, central laundry facilities, bike storage, and a private garden. Set on a charming tree-lined block near Third Avenue, this exceptional home is surrounded by a wealth of dining options and convenient transit choices, with the 6, E, and M trains just three blocks away and Grand Central Terminal’s 4/5, S, and 7 trains close by.
Sorry, no pets allowed.

11-35 45th Avenue, Unit 2H

11-35 45th Avenue, Unit 2H

Long Island City

Asking $700,000

Studio  |  1 Bath | Condo

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-Condo
-Private terrace
-In-unit washer/dryer
-Easy access to the E/M/G, and 7 subway lines.

Move right into this stunning studio featuring a spacious 312 sq. ft. private terrace. On-site private parking is available for purchase separately.

Located in the highly sought-after Murray Park North, this mint-condition studio boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek hardwood floors, and an in-unit Bosch washer/dryer. The modern kitchen is equipped with Liebherr, Bosch, and Bertazzoni stainless steel appliances, while the spa-like bath offers radiant heated floors for ultimate comfort. With central AC/heat and a large private terrace, this home is a true urban retreat.

Perfectly positioned across from Murray Playground, you’re just minutes from LIC’s top attractions, including MOMA PS1, boutique restaurants, and Court Square, with easy access to the E, M, G, and 7 subway lines.

LIV @ Murray Park North is a full-service elevator condominium offering premium amenities such as a fitness center, landscaped roof deck with BBQs, an on-site resident manager, a video intercom system with remote access, and garage parking.

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Coney Island’s Luna Park Opens For Its 2025 Season This Weekend

Luna Park, Coney Island’s iconic beachfront amusement park, will open for the 2025 season this weekend. The historic park will reopen on Saturday, March 29 at 11 a.m. with a three-day celebration, including its annual opening ceremonies featuring the first ride and egg cream christening of the world-famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster. In celebration of its 98th birthday, the first 98 visitors will enjoy a free ride on the Cyclone and a complimentary egg cream.

Credit: Luna Park

“Our entire team is filled with gratitude and enthusiasm as we open our doors for the 2025 season,” Alessandro Zamperla, president and CEO of Central Amusement International, said. “It is an honor to continue the incomparable Amusement legacy in Coney Island as we preserve, revitalize, and provide an incredible family-oriented experience in NYC.”

The park will kick off the 2025 season with its annual charity initiative, offering discounted pricing for All Day Extraordinary Wristbands. A portion of the proceeds from opening weekend sales will be donated to local charities, including the Coney Island Sharks, Operation H.O.O.D., Children of Promise NYC, Urban Neighborhood Services, and the Coney Island Public Library.

This season, the park will unveil new arcade games, renovated retail vendors, and a new patio at the Salt & Sizzle restaurant.

Last year, the park opened a brand-new attraction, the Electric Eden Raceway, making history with New York City’s first-ever sustainable electric-powered Go-Karts, and “video mapping gamification.”

Photo by Wabi Sabi on Unsplash

Luna Park will be open daily during spring break (April 11 through 20) and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Memorial Day weekend. After Memorial Day weekend, the park will be open daily. Admission to Luna Park is free; rides start at $4.

Next door, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park reopens for its 105th season on Palm Sunday, April 13 at 10 a.m. for the annual “Blessing of the Rides” ceremony.

The season will kick off with a ribbon-cutting on the boardwalk in front of the iconic attraction, and the first 105 guests will receive a free ride on Deno’s Wonder Wheel. The park will be open weekends through May 18 and then daily from May 23 through September 3.

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Coney Island’s Luna Park to open for 2025 season this weekend

By Aaron Ginsburg

March 24, 2025

Cover Photo Credit: Anthony G. Reyes on Flickr

222 East 82nd Street, Unit 5E

222 East 82nd Street, Unit 5E

Upper East Side

Asking $949,000

2 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Just moments from Central Park, this impeccably maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is a peaceful retreat with tranquil North and West exposures.

Upon entering Unit 5E, you’re welcomed by a spacious entry foyer with ample closet space and elegant hardwood floors. Designed for effortless living and entertaining, the newly renovated windowed kitchen features sleek stainless steel appliances, granite countertops with a breakfast bar, and generous storage. The sunlit living room comfortably accommodates both seating and dining areas for four, creating an inviting atmosphere. The expansive primary bedroom offers a built-in desk and easily fits a queen or king bed, while both bedrooms enjoy open city views. A beautifully updated windowed bathroom completes the home.

Nestled in a charming prewar building, residents enjoy a live-in superintendent, an elevator, and the convenience of a part-time doorman (11am – 6pm). Additional amenities include a lovely landscaped rooftop garden with furnished seating, a bike room, and a well-equipped laundry room with six washers and dryers.

Located in the heart of the Upper East Side, this home is surrounded by top dining, shopping, and easy access to the Q and 4/5/6 subway lines. 222 E 82nd Street welcomes pets, pied-à-terre buyers, 80% financing, and guarantors.

Redesign of Central Park Drives Will Add Space For Pedestrians and Cyclists

The redesign of Central Park’s six-mile loop road is moving forward, with repaving set to begin next week. On Thursday, city officials announced milling and repaving work will begin on Monday, March 17, to improve the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and e-vehicle users along the route by clearly separating their spaces. The project will begin by revamping the middle and southern sections of the Central Park loop, from 96th Street on the West Drive to 90th Street on the East Drive, with repaving of the northern section scheduled for next year.

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The repaving schedule for the southern section of the Central Park drives, weather permitting. Credit: NYC DOT

The work follows a study published last fall, conducted by the Central Park Conservancy, the Department of Transportation, and the Parks Department.

As part of the project, DOT will create consistent separation across the drives to clearly designate an inner pedestrian lane, improving safety by better separating pedestrians from cyclists and e-vehicle users.

Additionally, DOT will adjust traffic signals and improve signage to encourage cyclists’ compliance, while directing pedestrians toward the historic archways to reduce conflicts on the drives.

DOT will also collaborate with the Conservancy and the Parks Department to expand walking and running space along most sections of the drive, while repurposing the now-defunct vehicle lane as a “flex lane” for cyclists and essential vehicle access.

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Renderings show three crosswalk designs to be installed for locations with low pedestrian volumes (left), medium pedestrian volumes (center), and high pedestrian volumes (right). Credit: NYC DOT

During the next phase of the project, DOT will reconfigure traffic lights at crosswalks along the drives, replacing standard signals with ones featuring bicycle symbols. At low-traffic crosswalks, these lights may be replaced with “pedestrian crossing” and “active bike lane” warning signs. The final signal designs for medium and high-volume crossings will vary by location.

The Parks Department will work with DOT and the Conservancy to enhance in-park cycling connections by improving the park’s existing bike paths, creating new bike paths along the 86th Street Bridle Path, and better connecting cyclists’ paths to the street grid.

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Diagram showing existing allocation of space on the drives of Central Park, left, alongside the planned redesign of the drives, right. Credit: NYC DOT

Milling and repaving are expected to take about six weeks, weather permitting, and will occur on weeknights from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. The work will be done in phases, with milling Monday through Wednesday nights and paving on Thursdays and Fridays to avoid leaving any unpaved roads over the weekend.

The drives will remain open during construction, but bikers and pedestrians should be careful when traveling through the milled sections. Restriping of the road and crosswalks will happen after repaving is complete.

“Turning Central Park’s drives into car-free spaces has allowed the city to reimagine how the park loop can best reflect the needs of parkgoers. NYC DOT will be taking advantage of this repaving to prioritize pedestrian safety while also better accommodating cyclists and legal e-mobility options,” DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said.

“We thank New Yorkers for their patience while we deliver these upgrades to the city’s most iconic park and we appreciate the close partnership with Parks and the Central Park Conservancy.”

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Redesign of Central Park drives will add space for pedestrians and cyclists

By Aaron Ginsburg

March 10, 2025

Cover Photo by Dietmar Rabich on Wikimedia

Time Out to Open New Food Hall in Union Square

Time Out is opening its second food hall in New York City this fall. Set to occupy the ground floor of Union Square’s Zero Irving tech hub, the 10,000-square-foot Time Out Market will feature a curated selection of the city’s premier culinary and cultural experiences. The 300-seat space will include seven kitchens, a fully stocked bar, an outdoor terrace, and a stage for live performances by local artists, according to Time Out.

The Union Square food hall will further Time Out’s mission of showcasing the best established and emerging food vendors, as well as cultural talents, in each city where it operates.

Photo courtesy of Eden, Janine and Jim on Flickr

The opening will mark Time Out’s 11th location worldwide, with the first opening in Lisbon, Portugal in 2014. Seven more Time Out markets are planned to open between 2025 and 2027. Time Out’s first NYC location opened on the Dumbo waterfront at 55 Water Street in 2019.

“Time Out Market New York, Union Square will not just be a place to eat: it will be a platform for culinary and cultural talents—where you can discover the city’s flavors and fresh ideas, and experience New York’s creativity all at once; a place for people and the local community to come together,” Virginia Rector-Birbal, vice president for U.S. Time Out Market, said. “It will be for everyone, every day—for all ages, budgets, tastes—under one roof.”

Zero Irving, the 22-story office tower at 124 East 14th Street, opened in 2022. Urbanspace leased 10,000 square feet on the ground floor to host a technology training center and incubator, offering co-working and event spaces.

Developed by RAL Cos. and JRE Partners, the building stands on the former site of the P.C. Richard & Son building. The project faced years of intense opposition from local preservationists and community groups who argued that the rezoning required for development lacked protections for primarily low-rise, residential neighborhood, as 6sqft previously reported.

Urbanspace is expected to vacate the building by the end of the month, but provided no reason for the departure. It’s also not clear how much Time Out is paying to rent the space, but rents in the building started at $120 per square foot when it opened in 2022, as reported by Crain’s New York.

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Time Out to open new food hall in Union Square this fall

By Aaron Ginsburg

March 7, 2025

Cover Photo Credit: Filip Wolak

432 West 52nd Street, Unit 5A

432 West 52nd Street, Unit 5A

Midtown west

Asking $1,100,000

2 Bed  |  2 Bath | Condo

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Experience impeccable finishes in this beautiful two-bedroom home, offering a rare chance to live in a stunning new construction building conversion in the heart of Midtown West.

This sunlit corner unit features an expansive great room, enhanced by tall 9-foot ceilings and white oak hardwood floors throughout. The open-concept kitchen is a masterpiece of style and functionality, featuring integrated appliances, sleek lacquer cabinetry, a stainless steel appliance suite, and elegant Caesarstone countertops.
The serene primary bedroom with an en suite bath is bathed in natural light. The spa-like bathrooms impress with custom vanities, frameless glass walk-in showers, floor-to-ceiling tile, and radiant heated floors. Modern conveniences include central climate control, energy-efficient windows, and an in-unit washer-dryer, ensuring maximum comfort and ease.

432 W 52 is a boutique condominium offering premium amenities, including a 4,200-square-foot landscaped rooftop deck, a residents' lounge, a fully equipped fitness center, and a part-time doorman service. Nestled in the heart of Midtown West, you’re close to Central Park, the Theater District, Columbus Circle, and Times Square. With nearby access to the A/C/E, B/D, 1, and N/Q/R subway lines, the entire city is at your fingertips.

201 East 66th Street, Unit 16G

201 East 66th Street, Unit 16G

lenox hill

Asking $565,000

Studio  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Welcome to this beautifully fully renovated, oversized alcove studio featuring breathtaking eastern exposure that fills the space with natural light throughout the day. Thoughtfully designed with sophisticated, modern touches, this serene apartment boasts brand-new wood flooring, freshly skim-coated walls, and luxurious finishes throughout.

The state-of-the-art kitchen showcases high-end upgrades, including Cesar custom-made Italian cabinetry for elegant storage, sleek Caesarstone countertops, and premium appliances such as a Liebherr refrigerator, Miele cooktop, and combination Miele convection oven and microwave. A Bosch dishwasher completes the space, ensuring effortless cleanup and modern convenience.

The expansive living room is outfitted with Hunter Douglas Pirouette motorized window shades, blending both functionality and refined style. The luxurious, spa-inspired bathroom features designer finishes, including Porcelanosa tile for a polished aesthetic, Purist x Kohler shower fixtures for a premium bathing experience, and a sleek Casita x Kohler sink.

Storage abounds with an impressive wall of closets—including a walk-in—providing exceptional organizational options. The spacious layout offers incredible flexibility, easily convertible into a junior one-bedroom with ample room for a queen-sized bed or a dedicated work-from-home office space.
Located in the sought-after cooperative at 201 East 66th Street, this impeccably maintained building offers 24-hour doorman service, garage parking, a commercial gym, and exceptionally low maintenance fees. Pet-friendly living is welcome, with policies that promote a strong sense of community. While subletting, pied-à-terre ownership, guarantors, and parent purchases are not permitted, gifting is considered on a case-by-case basis. This unbeatable Upper East Side location provides unparalleled convenience with easy access to the F, Q, 4, 5, and 6 subway lines, along with vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural hotspots.
Don’t miss this opportunity to call this meticulously updated, move-in-ready residence your next home!
Please note: $241/month capital assessment in place through 11/30/25.

A Fish Sculpture by Frank Gehry Now Hangs at 3 World Trade Center

A new sculpture by famed modernist architect Frank Gehry is now on display in New York City. Silverstein Properties on Thursday unveiled “Untitled (Fish on Fire, Greenwich Street) 2024,” a 20-foot by 7-foot copper fish sculpture suspended in the lobby of 3 World Trade Center. Gehry, known for his creative use of materials and innovative designs found around the world, has used the fish as a motif in his work since the 1980s. The new sculpture is the “largest suspended fish sculpture ever created” by the architect, according to Silverstein.

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Photos courtesy of Spencer Lasky

The fish form can be seen throughout Gehry’s six decades of work, including sculpture projects like “Fish Sculpture” at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona and “Standing Glass Fish” at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. In 1983, he created his first set of fish lamps as part of a collaboration with Formica; a 1984 exhibit at the Gagosian Gallery in Los Angeles put 20 of his lamps on display.

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Photos courtesy of Spencer Lasky

He returned to making fish lamps in 2012, with a design that “reflected the evolution of his architectural work in the intervening decades,” architecture critic Paul Goldberger wrote in 2021.

“Like Gehry’s architecture, the fish lamps have matured, and with them he has built on what came before, not rejecting it but bringing out of it something grander, more powerful, and even, at its best, majestic,” Golberger said.

The new sculpture is illuminated from within, glowing a warm russet color. The exterior features scales shaped like feathers and leaves. According to a press release, the piece slowly rotates, casting light and shadows throughout the space.

Silverstein Properties, the developer behind the redeveloped World Trade Center, said the sculpture has been a year in the making, as part of a collaboration with Silverstein, Gehry, and art gallery Gagosian.

Gehry’s sculpture adds to the public art of the World Trade Center, and the Financial District as a whole. Artworks at the complex include Frank Stella’s “Jasper’s Split Star” and Jenny Holzer’s text installation at 7 World Trade Center, James Rosenquist’s “Joystick” at 3 World Trade Center, and Kozo Nishino’s “Sky Memory” at 4 World Trade Center.

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Photos courtesy of Spencer Lasky

Photos courtesy of Spencer Lasky

“I am delighted to host Frank Gehry’s iconic fish sculpture – one of his largest – inside the 3 World Trade Center lobby,” Larry A. Silverstein, Chairman, Silverstein Properties.

“This collaboration is the latest in our company-wide commitment to public space art and creative thinking throughout our buildings.”

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A fish sculpture by Frank Gehry now hangs in the lobby of 3 World Trade Center

By Devin Gannon

February 27, 2025

All photos courtesy of Spencer Lasky

The Monthly Update - March 2025

Quick Market Update & Note About Condo vs. Co-op

February saw a steady rise in contracts signed, with deals rising 37.4% month-over-month at the time of this writing. Inventory is also steadily gaining ground and is only 3.2% less than it was at this point last year. Despite interest rates' pesky ability to stick around 7%, buyers are still aggressively putting property under contract, and the anecdotal water cooler chatter is that plenty of buyers currently have accepted offers or are negotiating deals that are yet to hit the contract-signed market. As it turns out, many industry experts, including bankers, real estate attorneys and real estate brokers, expect this spring to be busy! They like to call this a “liquid market," meaning many properties and deals will be changing hands, but it remains to be seen if “price action“ will come into play. Will prices start to rise, finally, after staying relatively flat for the past 72 months? Only time will tell.

Condo vs. Co-op

The allure of owning a high-end property in New York City has always been a trophy for many affluent (and not as affluent) people who are drawn here. But these buyers have choices: They can either purchase a co-op or a condo. Recently, the appeal of owning upscale condominiums has taken flight, leaving luxury co-ops in the dust. 

In January 2024, one seller sold his Park Avenue co-op for $7.4 million, or nearly 60% less than the original $17.7 million asking price. This sale emphasizes the point that co-ops are staying stagnant by way of resale and falling behind condos in resellability. 

Not long ago, co-ops were considered the gold standard for New York City living. The idea of purchasing a co-op on the Upper East Side's Fifth, Park or Madison avenues attracted some of the wealthiest families around the world. Lately, however, many buyers have preferred high-end luxury condos, which are more of a “downtown" thing. They’ve also elected a lifestyle with fewer rules and more modern amenities. Buyers from all over have been less enamored with the stately, old-world charm of uptown co-ops and have instead gravitated towards more “hip” downtown living in contemporary new-construction glass towers.

And the numbers don’t lie: For properties over $10 million, condos saw a 45% growth rate from 2014 to 2024, while co-ops only went up only 16%. High-end downtown condos in areas like Tribeca, SoHo and the West Village are now seen as the pinnacle of luxury living. And we can’t forget Midtown's Billionaire's Row, where addresses like 432 Park and 220 Central Park South have seen exponential growth over the last decade, leaving “stuffy” co-ops behind. A lot of this shift has to do with the changing demographics. Younger and affluent buyers are choosing a different lifestyle and view co-ops as “antiquated” and “old school.” 

So, what does this mean for the future of co-ops? Well, some cooperative buildings are getting hip to the game by loosening their restrictions and adding amenities to remain competitive with their rivals. However, most are still sticking to their guns by requiring 50% down and 5 times the price in post-closing liquid assets, all while forbidding subletting. Plus, the majority of co-ops still require voluminous board packages plus an in-person interview, which, frankly, often just hinges on the buyer's personality. 

In my humble opinion, and as a co-op ownersomeone who sells in many co-ops, I find it very  frustrating that these buildings have not yet become leaner, “friendlier“ and better prepared for the 21st century and beyond. Only time will tell if co-ops start to become more competitive. Still, for now, particularly in the luxury market, co-ops are on a downward trajectory while condo popularity continues to rise.

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Local Happenings

Sarah Cahill:

The Future Is Female

March 8th, 2025

Join pianist Sarah Cahill for a six-hour marathon performance celebrating women composers from the Baroque era to today. From 2-8 PM, Cahill will perform over seventy compositions by female musicians, bringing to light brilliant works history has often overlooked.

Click HERE to learn more!

St. Patrick's Day Parade

March 17th, 2025

The celebration kicks off at 11am and continues until about 4:30pm. The parade route starts at 44th Street and travels up Fifth Avenue past the beautiful St. Patrick's Cathedral, ending at 79th Street.

Click HERE to learn more!

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Lifestyle Tips and Tricks

The History of Home Staging

Learn how staging evolved from placing furniture in select rooms to the high-stakes art form it is today.

Courtesy of U.S. News

8 Interior Design and Renovation Tips from Experts

Define what you want to achieve with the renovation, taking your lifestyle needs and budget realities into consideration.

Courtesy of U.S. News

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