Upper West Side Doorman Buildings - Luxury and Convenience

The Allure of Doorman Buildings on the Upper West Side

The Upper West Side of Manhattan has long been one of the most desirable neighborhoods in New York City. Known for its classic prewar architecture, proximity to Central Park, excellent public transportation, and vibrant cultural scene, the Upper West Side represents some of the best that New York has to offer.

Within this highly sought-after neighborhood, doorman buildings hold particular cache and appeal. A doorman building offers many advantages over non-doorman buildings, especially in a busy city like New York.

What is a Doorman Building?

A doorman building, sometimes called a luxury building, is a multi-family residential building that has a doorman or concierge on premises 24/7. The doorman not only greets residents and guests, but also provides additional security, accepts packages and deliveries, hails taxis, makes restaurant recommendations, and assists residents in other ways. They help contribute to the sense of privacy and exclusivity that residents of doorman buildings enjoy.

Benefits of Living in a Doorman Building

There are many advantages to living in an Upper West Side doorman building, including:

• Increased safety and security - Doormen provide security, monitor who enters the building, and keep track of keys
• Package acceptance - No more missing deliveries when the doorman accepts all packages
• Convenience - Doormen can hail taxis, receive food deliveries, give directions, make recommendations, etc.
• Prestige and status - Doorman buildings signal wealth, success, and privilege to residents and guests
• Quality construction - Typically have higher end finishes and amenities than non-doorman buildings
• Concierge services - Some buildings offer dog walking, dry cleaning pick up/drop off, and other concierge services
• Community - Getting to know the doorman and other residents can lead to a sense of community

Additionally, doorman buildings in desirable areas like the Upper West Side retain their value very well over time. The cost of buying or renting in a doorman building is often viewed as a safe long-term real estate investment in New York City.

Examples of Prominent Upper West Side Doorman Buildings

The Upper West Side, running roughly from 59th Street to 110th Street between Central Park and the Hudson River, contains many beautiful prewar and newly constructed luxury doorman apartment buildings. Some examples include:

The Apthorp

The iconic Apthorp building occupies an entire city block at Broadway and 78th Street. Built in 1908, the Renaissance Revival structure was designated an official city landmark in 1978. It offers over 400 rental units with onsite garage parking, Washington Heights views, and a stunning central courtyard.

The Dorchester

On 57th Street and Broadway, the Dorchester dates back to 1904 and has been fully restored. Doormen offer white glove service maintaining the building's old world charm. Units feature details like original moldings alongside modern systems and open city views.

25 Central Park West

Famous residents have enhanced 25 Central Park West's reputation over the years. This luxury art deco tower designed by Rosario Candela offers full park views with in-building amenities covering over 30,000 square feet.

The San Remo

Another twin towered Candela building, the San Remo overlooks Central Park at 74th Street with units offering private terraces. This pet friendly co-op has two separate lobbies and requires potential buyers to be vetted by current residents.

The Majestic

At 115 Central Park West, the Majestic has a storied past and houses the largest apartments on the Upper West Side. With just over 100 units inside twin 18 and 30 story towers, it offers full service white glove treatment in a less crowded boutique style building.

What to Look for in an Upper West Side Doorman Building

If you’re considering buying or renting a unit in an Upper West Side doorman building, here are some key features to look for:

• A professional, well-staffed doorman team providing 24/7 coverage
• Modern system upgrades like new plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and elevators
• In unit or building amenities like gyms, resident lounges, playrooms, and outdoor spaces
• High level interior finishes like hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, floor to ceiling windows
• Ideal location near Central Park, transportation, restaurants, entertainment and convenience stores
• Storied history or famous architecture and past residents
• Reputation for retaining value and demand over many decades

Be sure to ask about monthly condo/co-op fees, additional move-in fees, short or long-term rental allowances, application requirements, and restrictions on pets or renovations when inquiring about any building.

The Draw of Doorman Living on the Upper West Side

While expensive compared to other NYC neighborhoods, the Upper West Side offers fantastic quality of life with easy access to the best that the city offers. Renting or buying an apartment in a luxury doorman building provides safety, convenience, prestige, and excellent long term value in a prime location.

If you prioritize upscale living in a vibrant, practical neighborhood with character and charm, the Upper West Side has no shortage of buildings that fit the bill. Finding the perfect doorman building apartment here is well worth the investment it commands.

FAQs

What are the most expensive doorman buildings on the Upper West Side?

Some of the most expensive luxury doorman buildings on the Upper West Side include Central Park West icons like The Majestic, The San Remo, and 15 Central Park West. Units in these buildings can sell for $10 million or more for larger, higher floor residences.

What amenities do the top UWS doorman buildings have?

Many of the high-end doorman buildings include amenities like in-building parking garages with valet services, 24/7 concierges, fitness centers and swimming pools, screening rooms, lounge spaces with full kitchens for entertaining, children’s playrooms, and outdoor gardens or roof decks.

How much are doorman building fees?

Building fees in luxury UWS doorman buildings can range from around $1,000/month for a 1-bedroom to $5,000+ per month for a 4+ bedroom units. This covers property taxes, general building maintenance, salaries for doormen, porters, and maintenance staff.

How is the application process?

The co-op and condo application process involves submitting detailed financial and personal documentation like tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, letters of recommendation, and a cover letter. Expect interviews, home inspections, and board approval that can take several months after an accepted offer.