24 W 55TH Street #2C

From the moment the doors opened in 1936, architect Wallace Harrison's designed Rockefeller Apartments have been a magnet for architects and artists. The building's half-cylindrical bays, casement windows, and art deco details are as recognizable and inspiring today as when they were first unveiled in the 1930s. Celebrities, socialites, writers and anyone with an appreciation of European Modernist design have admired The Rockefeller Apartments. The plain-surfaced door opens to a generous entry gallery with views to the open living studio showcasing new thermally efficient casement windows and lovely "New York City" views. Coated in venetian plaster, the apartment's natural light reflects off the ceilings and walls making the space come alive. The exceptional dining area is situated in the cylindrical curve of the building ushering in light and offering views in three directions. The windowed kitchen/pantry measures over 19 feet in length and has abundant original cabinets, plentiful countertop surface, new cork floor, new full-size refrigerator, and spacious cooking space. A wide hall is lined with originally designed double sliding door closets which provide extraordinary storage. The bath is period specific honoring the history of original design. Built-in lamps in the kitchen/hallway/bath are two Louis Poulsen "AJ Eklipta" and there are three "Waggon" Danish lamps. The apartment is bathed in pretty northern "artist" light and has tree-lined, cityscape views to Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. The legendary Rockefeller Apartments are a pair of cooperatives located at 24 West 55th Street and 17 West 54th Street connected via a charming courtyard garden. Home to renowned restaurant Michael's, the buildings are known as a destination enclave for many involved in the arts and innovation. Close to MoMA and just off of 5th Avenue in the heart of the City, 24 West 55th Street is a full-service cooperative that has a full-time doorman, private storage, and allows pets. The buildings were commissioned by John D. and Nelson Rockefeller in 1935 and were designed by the firm Harrison & Fouilhoux. The architecture of the buildings were thought to have set the tone for New York City house planning for years to come due to the design and pattern of the window bays and the particular attention to light and air. The building lobby was redone in 2004 by designer Rejean Tetreault to invoke 1930's Modernism.