A fresh architectural rendering has been unveiled for 985 Fifth Avenue, showcasing an updated design for the proposed luxury residential tower on Manhattan's prestigious Upper East Side. The 20-story condominium building, now standing at 264 feet tall, represents a collaboration between Studio Sofield as the design architect and former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer's development firm, Spitzer Enterprises. SLCE Architects serves as the architect of record for this high-profile project, which is strategically positioned near the intersection of East 79th Street and Fifth Avenue.
The newly revealed rendering demonstrates a refined evolution from the previous 19-story design, with the building now featuring an additional floor that enhances its overall presence. The structure maintains a prewar-inspired aesthetic that pays homage to the neighborhood's historic character, featuring elegant limestone cladding that frames symmetrically arranged large windows throughout the facade. The architectural composition includes a carefully orchestrated series of setbacks, with the main setback elevated by one story from the original design, followed by a secondary setback positioned three floors above, culminating in distinctive corner cuts that lead to a sophisticated multifaceted crown.
The updated design reflects a more streamlined approach to ornamentation compared to its predecessor, particularly evident in the simplified treatment of the upper cornices and bulkhead elements. This design refinement creates a cleaner, more contemporary interpretation while still respecting the traditional architectural language of Fifth Avenue's distinguished residential corridor. The building will house 26 exclusive condominium units, catering to the luxury market that defines this coveted Manhattan location.
The development site currently houses a 25-story rental building that rises 255 feet, originally designed by Wechsler & Schimenti and constructed in 1969 by Bernard Spitzer, the father of current developer Eliot Spitzer. This existing structure received demolition approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission in October 2023, clearing the path for the new development to proceed. The transition from the older rental model to luxury condominiums reflects the ongoing evolution of Manhattan's Upper East Side real estate market.
The project benefited significantly from the City of Yes zoning overhaul, which provided the developer with the opportunity to add one additional floor to the original design. This zoning modification translates to approximately 12,500 additional square feet of residential space, enhancing the project's economic viability while maintaining appropriate scale for the neighborhood context. As part of the agreement under the new zoning framework, Spitzer Enterprises has committed to contributing to an affordable housing fund that will facilitate the creation of affordable housing units within a half-mile radius of 985 Fifth Avenue.
The revised design received strong community support, with a Community Board 8 subcommittee voting overwhelmingly in favor of the design modifications during their October 20 meeting. This community endorsement represents an important milestone for the project, demonstrating local acceptance of the development's updated vision and its contribution to the neighborhood's architectural landscape.
The prime location offers exceptional accessibility and cultural proximity for future residents. The nearest subway access is provided by the 6 train at the 77th Street station along Lexington Avenue, ensuring convenient transportation connections throughout Manhattan. Perhaps most significantly, the property sits just steps south of the world-renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art, placing residents at the doorstep of one of the globe's most prestigious cultural institutions.
While initial development timelines before the design revisions targeted a 2028 completion date, an updated construction schedule incorporating the recent design changes has not yet been announced. The project represents a significant addition to the Upper East Side's luxury residential offerings, combining contemporary living standards with the timeless appeal of Fifth Avenue's most desirable blocks.
