The History of the Bentley Condominium: And a Car to Boot!

As the designated Streeteasy and Zillow expert for this Building, the Bentley Condominium, located at 159 East 30th Street in the Kips Bay/Murray Hill was a pioneering boutique development in 1988. Once upon a time, Midtown East, was a haven for brothels, crime and unwanted scenes. This project was developed to serve as a groundbreaking luxury residence in an area that was still on the cusp of emerging growth.

Originally a shuttered fire station, the parcel was purchased in the mid 1980’s from large development Company, Tishman Speyer. It was subsequently developed into 50 boutique Condominium residences. Throughout the years many residences have been combined into full floor Apartments.

After two years of development, sales at the Bentley Condominium commenced in 1988. To boost sales and property interest, Ownership collaborated with local Bentley car dealerships. The PR stunt was to showcase the building and drive prospective purchasers around town in Bentley continental sedan models. As a result, the Bentley Condominium became a smashing success, as various celebrities including, Robin Givens, lived in the building.

Thirty years later, this Luxury property still sets the benchmark for boutique Condominium residences in the neighborhood. With unparalleled wrap-around windows, select full-floor residences and a prime corner location on third avenue, demand for this property is always in-effect.

The emergence of restaurant row on 30th Street and eateries such as Rubys, Norma, Hummus Kitchen, Banc Cafe and others have been a boon for the neighborhood.

With Trader Joes, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target and more around the corner, there is never a shortage of activities in the area. Grand Central Terminal and the Harlem River Drive are a short distance away creating an easy commute throughout the Tri-State area.

The Bentley Condominium

• 24/7 Doorman
• A European boutique feel
• Charming red brick exterior
• Luxury residences
• Partial and full floor Apartments
• Wraparound windows
• Dual external stairwells
• Laundry in the building
• Garage around the corner
• Easy access to mass transportation

 

While turnover in the Bentley Condominium is rare, full floor residences occasionally list for sale. During the past several years, development in this neighborhood has exploded. There are at least a dozen new developments in this area with strong demand from a multitude of buyers and renters.

The Bentley Condominium was a pioneer for this location. In the late 1980’s many developers simply weren’t ready to gamble on this location.

For more information on the Manhattan marketplace and exclusive buyers representation for the Bentley Condominium, please contact me.  As always, I will buy you a cup of coffee.