Newly released architectural renderings showcase plans for a complete redevelopment of 800 Fifth Avenue, featuring a 26-story luxury residential building in Manhattan's prestigious Upper East Side. The project, designed by renowned Robert A. M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) and developed by Naftali Group, will rise 330 feet tall and house an undisclosed number of high-end condominium units. The ambitious development will require the complete demolition of the current 33-story rental building, which was originally constructed in 1979.
The property sits at the prime corner of Fifth Avenue and East 61st Street, directly across from Central Park within the Upper East Side Historic District. The main rendering reveals RAMSA's signature prewar-inspired architectural approach, showcasing a warm limestone facade and sophisticated upper massing with multiple setbacks. The building's design features a distinctive five-story podium base, topped by the main tower that rises through a series of elegant setbacks crowned with private terraces.
The proposed structure incorporates symmetrical fenestration with large arched windows positioned at the upper corners and center of the building, all beneath an ornamental crown that pays homage to classic New York architecture. Detailed renderings highlight the building's limestone facade, complete with decorative window frames, lintels, and traditional dentil trim cornices. A terrace with glass railings will cap the sixth-story corner cutout, while new raised garden beds will enhance the sidewalk experience along Fifth Avenue.
The architectural plans include a redesigned motor courtyard along East 61st Street, featuring a sophisticated vehicular elevator system that leads to an underground parking structure. The tower's floor plan reveals an irregularly shaped core, as indicated by the central outline in the architectural diagrams. The landscaped motor courtyard will provide an elegant arrival experience for residents and visitors.
Naftali Group acquired the existing building from Spitzer Enterprises and Winter Properties in August for $810 million, a transaction that included $675 million in financing from J.P. Morgan and Golden Tree. The development site enjoys exceptional connectivity, located just one block north of the N, R, and W subway lines at the 5th Avenue-59th Street station.
Before demolition and construction can commence, the proposal must secure approval from Manhattan Community Board 8's landmarks committee and the Landmarks Preservation Commission, given the property's location within the historic district. The project represents a significant investment in preserving and enhancing the architectural character of one of Manhattan's most exclusive neighborhoods while providing modern luxury living directly across from Central Park.
