Property Tour: The Centurion in Manhattan
In a recent property tour, MHN was taken through The Centurion, a condo building in Manhattan that was designed by I.M. Pei. The only condo building, in fact, that the famed architect ever designed.
New York—In a recent property tour, I was taken through The Centurion, a condo building in Manhattan that was designed by I.M. Pei. The only condo building, in fact, that the famed architect ever designed.
The community, designed in the minimalist style Pei is renowned for, has no sharp corners on the exterior. According to Thomas Guss, president of New York Residence, Pei sloped the building so that it is shaped like a waterfall. Not only does this create gentle curves, but it makes the apartments different heights and sizes.
“Each unit is almost handmade, because there is no unit of scale,” Guss said.
Speaking of waterfalls, The Centurion features a waterfall feature in the lobby. “In Asian belief, the waterfall is thought to increase the wealth of the people in the building,” Guss said.
There are 32 floor plans for the condos. One of the units I saw included a washer and dryer, cast-iron bathtub and glass countertop in the kitchens, which, according to Guss, is six times more expensive than granite. Additionally, there was a safe in the bathrooms, which Guss said are excellent for keeping prescription medicines.
Another condo had a view of a nearby art gallery that featured outdoor sculptures. Guss said the gallery switches the sculptures often, giving the occupant a constantly changing view.
“Each apartment is completely different and has unique features,” Guss said.
Some amenities for The Centurion include a parking garage, doorman and 24-hour gym. But that’s not all.
“The best amenity is its location!” Guss exclaimed, saying that the community is right near Central Park, as well as shopping and restaurants.
Currently The Centurion is 85 percent sold, with nine apartments remaining.