- Location: 21 East 26th Street, New York, NY
- Size: 36,000 sq ft
- Type: Retail Anchoring 4 Luxury Condos
- Developer: Michael Yanko & David Mitchell
- Executive Architect/Expediting: Crown Architecture
Crown was entrusted with transforming a landmarked, pre-war commercial building at the northern edge of Madison Square Park. Once a drab and underutilized office space owned by a local union, the property had been overlooked by other developers due to its perceived limitations and a lack of understanding of its zoning potential. With a bold vision to elevate the building’s use, Crown conducted extensive due diligence and a detailed zoning study before acquisition—ultimately determining that the property could be reimagined as luxury residential units with high-end retail at the ground level.
To maximize spatial efficiency and natural light, each floor was designed as a generous 5,000-square-foot residence, culminating in an exclusive penthouse addition. A full façade restoration was also proposed, including the tasteful and innovative integration of the penthouse—a component that required precise coordination and approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission.
One of the most complex challenges was preserving views of Madison Square Park. Crown addressed this by strategically positioning new trees within the park to maintain key sightlines from public property. This thoughtful design strategy, combined with a meticulously crafted presentation, led to a rare first-round approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission—an achievement that underscores Crown’s expertise in navigating complex urban and regulatory landscapes.
The transformation of this historic building not only preserved its character but also introduced an unparalleled level of luxury to one of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods. The penthouse, in particular, has attracted high-profile residents such as Chelsea Clinton, Jeff Gordon, and Jennifer Lopez. Through foresight, creativity, and a deep understanding of municipal regulations, Crown unlocked the full potential of this property, setting a new standard for luxury living in the heart of Manhattan.
