The conversion of the Walker Tower is verging on completion, and the result is spectacular. Located at 212 West 18th Street, the tower shows signs of becoming the address in Chelsea – the building is already a destination for New York’s elite, boasting enormous windows and outdoor space for over half of the new units. Each floor is two feet thick – not something buildings typically boast about, but a definite plus in this case, ensuring that residents can enjoy noise-free living. Per the New York Daily News, JDS’s Michael Stern has said residents could “basically drive a bulldozer in [their] apartment, and [neighbors] wouldn’t hear or feel it,” – always a plus.
Originally designed by Ralph Walker, who was one of the defining architects of pre-war New York, the transformation involved converting the building from communications and office space into luxury residences. Though the task was difficult, the result is well worth the effort, and the historic details have been gradually unveiled as the scaffolding has come off – the metal accents of the tower’s facade exemplify Art Deco styling, and the intricacies of the tower’s brickwork are unrivaled in new construction.
Walker Tower’s official website has additional information, including details on the tower’s history and architect Ralph Walker’s other work, which includes icons like the Barclay Vesey Building and One Wall Street. With only 53 residences, Walker Tower will definitely be exclusive – and many celebrities have already expressed interest in the tower – as it offers a unique setting and location. The building’s low-rise Chelsea surroundings ensure unfettered views of both Midtown and Downtown, as well.
Completion is imminent, and Curbed has reported the building is already 50% sold – New York would be very lucky if more projects could exemplify Walker Tower, either new or old, and the conversion epitomizes the best of Manhattan in every sense.
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