
World-renowned architect Zaha Hadid is finally leaving her mark on New York City’s skyline this year, with the new 11-story boutique condominium building in West Chelsea. Her London-based architecture firm faced some immediate challenges when partnering up with New York City-based Related Companies to design the building, located at 520 W. 28th Street. The constraining zoning volumes made its first batch of proposals all code violations, stretching the firm’s creativity.
Designers ended up with two unique wings, one five feet higher than the other, to create more varied layouts and add a touch of originality. It lends the lobby a double-height dimension, giving outsiders a glimpse of the residents’ communal spaces and outdoor garden.
With a chevron façade and wraparound terraces, the building will make a powerful statement as it feeds the vibrant energy of the neighborhood, which features some pretty eclectic properties. It’s fluid design will house about 37 residences up to 5,500 square feet each, and units with up to 11-foot ceilings. It includes some technological integration and tailored, Mad Men-inspired interiors, with the split level unit jokingly dubbed the “Don Draper Apartment,” by Hadid herself.
There are a plethora of elevator corridors throughout the building, with a handful designated to individual units to serve as private entrances, offering more intimacy and exclusivity in the prestigious downtown area.