there is something about 15 CPW

15 Central Park West is the building that broke all the records.. Why? It marries Pre World War II grandeur with the conveniences of modernity i.e. high speed wiring. The whole psychology of "layout" has changed in the last 100 years, let alone the technology behind it. The streets of New York City pay homage to history as buildings are born and reborn. Like a scientist examining the rings of a tree for clues to the surrounding environment and climate, one can look at architecture and extrapolate on a generation. The world was forever altered by the invention of the automobile, air conditioning, dry wall, internet, fresh direct etc.. and with it the apartment house.

The great depression is responsible for cutting up many massive apartments and therefore responsible for creating awkward layouts. Another pet peeve of many otherwise Pre-War-loving people is having bathrooms adjacent to kitchens. One has to wonder if that was restricted by technology or the remnants of a larger home. Because older buildings were there first their builders and architects never could have anticipated wedding cake zoning laws and the ever growing thirst for both land and height in New York City. Many older buildings with once open and expansive views are now blocked by newer walls and windows.

The Zeckendorfs were lampooned in the newspapers for a percieved over payment of the last full developable lot on Central Park like William H. Seward before them. It was indeed a pure gamble to build the facade clad entirely in limestone in an era where glass rules the day. The success of 15 Central Park West proves New York is still very much a nostalgic town with a modern edge. 15 Central Park West is unparalleled for its ability to attract denizens across "the pond" in this case Wollman Rink. In traditional New York circles West of Wollman Rink might have otherwise be considered another planet until the Zeckendorfs took their gamble on 62nd Street and (gasp!) Central Park West.