Post-war white-glove co-op with enclosed balconies
605 Park Avenue is a white-glove, white-brick building amidst the Upper East Side Historic District, a tony section that largely resides between Central Park and Lexington Avenue from 59th to 78th streets. The building became a co-op in 1981 and is distinct for its large layouts, low turnover and low outlay — at least for Park Avenue, since it’s possible to buy a 1,000-square-foot apartment for less than $1 million with up to 75 percent financing. Sylvan Bien is behind this traditional post-modern structure, which used to possess open balconies with railings in a midcentury style. However, in the ensuing decades many of these balconies were enclosed, and in 2021 architect Warren Bohn tackled a facade redesign that eliminated the original railings as well. The Friends of the Upper East Side protested these changes during a 2016 public hearing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission without much success: “Our Committee feels that the proposed design choices seek to make this building more bland and ordinary, rather than embracing its midcentury aesthetic,” the Friends' group shared on their site. However, these concerns haven’t deterred buyers or hurt property values. “A lot of people think it’s a pre-war building,” says agent Chris Fry of Elegran. “Most times people are renovating, so they’re buying to put their stamp on it,” he adds, pointing to reasons people choose it beyond the architecture. “It’s the true Upper East Side,” says Fry, citing the appeal of its address, proximity to Central Park and views of Park Avenue and Billionaire’s Row. “It’s the full package.”
Large, renovated units with Park Avenue views
Some of the original 105 apartments have been combined over time, but even the entry-level one-bedrooms start at 775 square feet, making them large enough for a dedicated dining area and king-size bed. It’s even possible to find one with a rare 700-square-foot terrace. One- and two-bedrooms are the most common with nine-foot ceilings, through-wall air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Corner units feature two exposures and picturesque views of Park Avenue and historic townhomes. Many have been gutted, so common upgrades involve marble bathrooms, washers and dryers, wine coolers and high-end appliances. Many renovated kitchens have maintained their original galley layout with a window at the end, but others have been opened up to living areas. Balconies are more common in units with two or more bedrooms, but most of these have been glassed in with some notable exceptions. These include a 16th-floor two-bedroom with an apartment-length terrace and larger units on higher floors. In fact, the co-op’s most expensive penthouse even features multiple terraces, along with two floors and two kitchens. More modest three-bedrooms are still likely to feature chef’s kitchens, formal foyers and three exposures. Since many residents own other homes, it’s not uncommon to encounter apartments with minimal wear and tear despite the building’s age. A recent one-bedroom listed for just under $1 million, while two-bedrooms, which offer at least 1,400 square feet, are priced closer to $2 million. There are at least 20 units with three or more bedrooms starting around 2,000 square feet. A recent three-bedroom sold for almost $5 million. The largest units envelop more than 5,000 square feet, while the highest recorded sale goes to a five-bedroom penthouse for $17 million. As a caveat, monthly charges are high, with maintenance running $2,500 for that bargain one-bedroom under a million.
Glamorous updated lobby, outdoor terrace and on-site parking garage
Bohn also overhauled the lobby during the 2021 renovation, an elegant expanse of white marble floors and columns and a black marble accent wall, whose color scheme pulls inspiration from the white facade and black canopy entrance. The landscaped terrace also received a refresh with wood plank floors and wood patio furniture with umbrellas. But the parking garage is the main amenity draw, and though it’s just next door, it’s not physically connected to the co-op. The gym is small and cramped, however, Fry mentions the upscale Equinox over at 63rd Street and Lexington Avenue. Not only is it the flagship for the Upper East Side, but it also includes a pool. What 605 Park lacks in flashy amenities it makes up for in attentive service, including a full-time doorman, concierge and live-in super, who Fry praises for his rapid handling of repair requests.
Prime Park Avenue location close to Central Park, museums and designer stores
Park Avenue along the 60s is one of the most exclusive addresses in the city, a mostly residential stretch where white-glove buildings are interspersed with stately townhomes, five-star hotels and the occasional consulate. But retail and businesses are never far. For shopping, designer boutiques hold court along Madison Avenue, from Chanel to Hermes, while the flagship Bloomingdale’s department store is over at 59th Street and Lexington Avenue. For physical upkeep, there is an abundance of beauty services and medical offices, especially dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Meanwhile, some of the most expensive restaurants cluster in this pocket: Daniel and Cafe Boulud are two of the most famous; both are by chef Daniel Boulud and less than two blocks away. Arts and culture are in the mix as well, including the world-class Frick Collection, a once private art trove still housed in its original home at 70th Street and Fifth Avenue, although it’s temporarily closed until 2025 while the historic buildings are undergoing renovation. The historic Park Avenue Armory on the next block is an arts venue for avant-garde performances, exhibitions and art and design shows. Not least, Central Park is a mere two blocks west, with the entrance leading right to the Central Park Zoo and Billy Johnson playground.
Handful of subway lines and FDR Drive is nearby
Subway access is better than average for this part of the Upper East Side, with options including the local 6 train at 68th Street-Hunter College, the F and Q trains at 63rd Street and Lexington Avenue, and the 4, 5 in addition to the 6 at 59th Street. Those with cars can hop on FDR Drive to get in or out of the city, or cut through Central Park at 66th Street to reach the west side.
Pet restrictions regarding size and number
Fry notes that the board process is pretty easy for buyers, recalling his last client’s interview lasted only 15 minutes. However, typical board policies involving approval are in place regarding pied-a-terres or gifting, meaning that these are considered on a case-by-case basis. The one aspect that is stricter than other boards involves the pet policy, limiting pets to one per apartment and capping dogs at 25 pounds.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
2/ 10
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
77/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
99/ 100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score®
100/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Grand Army Plaza
9 min walk
St. Catherine's Park
10 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Soccer
Tramway Plaza
10 min walk
Picnic Area
Honey Locust Park
13 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
Andrew Haswell Green Park
14 min walk
Bike Trails
Dog Park
Picnic Area
Twenty-Four Sycamores Park
15 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Playground
Greenacre Park
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Nature Center
Channel Gardens
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Nature Center
50th Street Commons
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Schools
Source:
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