CHERISHED LUXURY: MANHATTAN’S Whether it’s relaxing on a bench in Central Park or drinking an exotic cocktail at a trendy hotel’s rooftop bar, New Yorkers truly savor being outdoors during the warm weather months. Many fortunate city denizens can escape to the outdoors without ever having to set foot outside of their homes. They soak up the sun and nature’s beauty right on their own private outdoor spaces. In Manhattan, outdoor space is an urban luxury that comes in an assortment of sizes, shapes and styles. In today’s tight real estate market, outdoor space adds 10-20% to a property’s value and for many busy New Yorkers, the convenience of not having to leave their apartments to catch a breath of fresh air is simply priceless. It’s no secret that large private outdoor spaces are rare in Manhattan and depending on type and size, can be incredibly expensive. Exclusivity is what makes over-sized terraces and private rooftops so coveted and now a New Yorker’s obsession. In this town, there is surely no shortage of luxurious and grand apartments with private outdoor spaces that are as equally impressive as their interiors. The late society tastemaker and philanthropist Evelyn Lauder was known for the large and stunning terrace gardens that she cultivated at her elegant residence overlooking Central Park. Knowing that outdoor space is so valuable, many lucky owners feel obliged to transform these blank canvases into breathtaking natural environments or peaceful outdoor living sanctuaries. Luckily, they can always hire talented landscape architects or designers to help them transform a lifeless space into an enviable urban oasis. When it comes to terraces and rooftops, the design possibilities are endless. However, Manhattan’s buildings have stringent guidelines on what can go on a terrace or roof. Therefore, before you commence any projects, you need to evaluate the outdoor space’s structural integrity, review your building’s weight
Resident May 2013