The Belvoir At 470 West End Avenue: 7 Secrets Of The Upper West Side’s Most Enigmatic Pre-War Co-op
The Belvoir at 470 West End Avenue: Building Profile and Biography
The Belvoir is a prime example of the luxury residential buildings that line the Upper West Side’s prestigious West End Avenue.
- Official Name: The Belvoir
- Address: 470 West End Avenue, New York, NY 10024
- Neighborhood: Upper West Side (UWS), Riverside Dr./West End Ave.
- Historic District: Riverside-West End Historic District
- Year Built: 1928
- Building Type: Cooperative (Co-op)
- Total Floors: 16 stories
- Total Apartments: Approximately 105 to 106 units
- Architect(s): Attributed to both Emery Roth and George F. Pelham
- Architectural Style: Renaissance Revival / Neo-Renaissance with Art Deco influences
- Key Features: Full-time 24-hour Doorman, attended lobby, high ceilings, classic pre-war layouts (including "Classic 7" rooms).
The Architectural Mystery of Its Master Designer
One of the most fascinating aspects of The Belvoir is the debate over its true architect, a detail that adds a layer of historical intrigue. While many prominent real estate sources credit the world-renowned Art Deco master, Emery Roth, others point to the prolific residential architect, George F. Pelham.
It is widely believed that The Belvoir was designed by George F. Pelham, a contemporary whose peers included Roth and Rosario Candela. Pelham was known for his elegant, pre-war designs, often in the Renaissance Revival style, which aligns perfectly with the building's aesthetic. The confusion may stem from the fact that both architects were giants of the era, and their work often shared similar characteristics of luxury and grandeur that defined the Upper West Side's streetscape.
Regardless of the primary hand, the result is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture. The building’s facade features intricate detailing, a hallmark of the pre-war era, and the interior layouts boast the generously proportioned rooms and high ceilings (often 9’4” or more) that are highly coveted by buyers today.
The Enduring Allure of Classic 7-Room Apartments
The Belvoir is famous for its classic pre-war layouts, particularly the highly desirable "Classic 7" apartment. This specific floor plan is a signature of luxury co-op living on the Upper West Side and is a key entity for topical authority in NYC real estate.
A Classic 7 typically includes a large living room, a formal dining room, a kitchen, a maid's room (often converted to a home office or laundry room), and three full bedrooms. These apartments were designed for sophisticated living and entertaining, featuring separate staff entrances, ample storage, and walk-in closets. The sheer scale and separation of living spaces are what draw affluent families to The Belvoir, making current listings of these homes a rare and valuable commodity in the Manhattan market.
The building's location between West 82nd and 83rd Streets places it firmly within the most desirable section of the historic district, offering residents a serene, residential atmosphere while maintaining easy access to the vibrancy of Broadway and the natural beauty of Riverside Park.
Celebrity History: The Penny Marshall Penthouse
Like many of Manhattan's grand co-ops, 470 West End Avenue has hosted its share of notable residents, adding a layer of allure and historical significance. One of the most famous connections is to the late filmmaker and actress, Penny Marshall.
Marshall owned a magnificent penthouse unit in the building for decades, having purchased it in the early 1980s. Her penthouse, which included a coveted private terrace, was a significant listing in the UWS market, further cementing The Belvoir's reputation for housing some of the city's most exclusive residences. Penthouse units (such as PHA and PHB) in the building are highly prized for their unparalleled light, space, and spectacular views, including those overlooking the Hudson River.
Full-Service Amenities and Modern Conveniences
The Belvoir's cooperative board ensures the building maintains a high standard of full-service luxury, essential for competing in the modern market. This commitment to service is what defines a top-tier pre-war co-op.
Key amenities that enhance the resident experience include:
- 24-Hour Doorman and Attended Lobby: Providing security, concierge services, and a classic, welcoming entrance.
- Pet-Friendly Policy: A crucial factor for many New Yorkers seeking a home for their entire family.
- Bicycle Room: Catering to the active lifestyle of Upper West Side residents who frequent Riverside Park.
- Oversized Laundry Facilities: Apartments often feature laundry rooms with vented units, a significant upgrade from standard NYC apartment living.
- Resident Manager: Ensuring smooth operations and immediate on-site management.
The building’s location is also family-friendly, being zoned for the highly-rated P.S. 9 Sarah Anderson School and just a two-minute walk from the beloved Hippo Playground in Riverside Park.
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