Tour: The Smile
Construction has wrapped up at Blumenfeld Development Group's 11-story rental building at East 126th Street in East Harlem. Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) is in charge of the design, which features a 11-story volume fronting East 126th Street and a six-story volume that extends over the center of BDG's existing retail building on the adjacent lot fronting East 125th Street. Along with residential, the development will also house neighborhood non-profit and performing arts group MAMA Foundation for the Arts.
Along East 126th Street, the north facade gently slopes inward as it rises, creating a concave shape that contrasts with the hard street edge of neighboring buildings while allowing more sunlight to reach the street. The north facade is being clad in slender windows and blackened stainless steel panels that alter in color tone as they reflect the sunlight. The checkerboard pattern of the north facade also allows for floor to ceiling glazing in apartment units.
The development offers 233 apartments in a mix of studios, one-, and two-bedrooms, with twenty percent of the units offered under the affordable housing program. Apartment interiors feature a design aesthetic that draws on industrial and minimalist themes with white monolithic floors and exposed concrete ceilings and columns. Custom open kitchens offer Italian stainless steel cabinetry. Amenities for residents include a fitness center, spa, lounge, workspace, and a rooftop terrace with a pool and landscaping.
Architect: Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG); Developer: Blumenfeld Development Group (BDG); Program: Residential, Retail; Location: East Harlem, New York, NY; Completion: 2020.