By Roslyn Lo
Silvercup Studios, a Long Island City staple renowned for its prominent work in film production, has left another indelible mark in New York. This time, it is not on the silver screen; it is the establishment of The Industry, a sleek new 75-unit condominium building on 21-45 44th Drive.
Silvercup Studios is owned by Stuart and Alan Suna, who have overseen the development of the new condominium. Residents of Long Island City for the past 30 years, the Suna brothers have not only witnessed the astronomical rate of cultural growth in the area, but have also had a huge hand in the change. Their production company, known for its productions of “Sex and the City,” “Gossip Girl” and “The Sopranos,” is a notable fixture of Long Island City. The Silvercup Studios sign, visible from the Manhattan-bound 7 train, has even become a signature landmark in the community.
Originally a largely industrial area, Long Island City now has the largest concentration of art galleries of any neighborhood in New York, as well as an eclectic restaurant scene. The Sunas have had ample experience developing residential projects, with thousands of affordable housing units around the five boroughs. The Industry marks their first venture into market-rate housing.
“Alan and I are excited about its Long Island City location,” Stuart Suna said. “It’s an up-and-coming neighborhood with a close proximity to Manhattan. Now it’s evolved into a neighborhood with dozens with great restaurants and lots of families.”
The Industry sits on 21-45 44th Drive, steps away from the 7, M,E and G subway stations. Marketed by Prudential Douglas Elliman and designed by GreenbergFarrow, the stylish new condo ranks among the high-end of Long Island City property. Priced at approximately $750 per s/f, the units are cheaper compared to Manhattan property.
“In our market-rate condos, there’s a high quality of architecture. We aimed for high design for best value. For today’s market price, new homeowners are looking for best price and location, best design and materials,” Suna said.
This means the Industry offers the full range of accommodations, from 518 s/f studios to a 1,570 s/f, three-bedroom penthouse. Studio prices start at $390,000, while the penthouse is listed at $1.4 million. A significant portion of the property was set aside to maximize outdoor space, and much attention was paid to detail. With bold designs and many amenities, the Industry aims to keep “life in motion.”
The building’s polished façade reflects the artistic culture in the surrounding neighborhood. A modern juxtaposition of wood and stone furnishes the lobby to a smooth effect, and is complete with a 24-hour doorman on hand to greet residents. Each unit is replete with stylish large windows, brightening the immaculate white shades of the walls and oak floors.
The motif continues in the kitchen, with Italian gray oak cabinets and White Maple colored silestone counters. A glass tile backsplash and LED undercabinet lighting adds extra gloss to the design. Italian porcelain deck out the bathroom walls and floors, with a white marble counter The penthouses were designed with no expenses spared, with 549 additional s/f of private balcony and terrace space. Its kitchens feature upgrades of Viking appliances and Sub-Zero refrigerators.
Outside of the private residences, The Industry has a significant amount of amenity space, with two different landscaped terraces. The rooftop deck is furnished with lounge chairs and grills, with an up-close view of the Manhattan skyline and East River. A fitness center is provided, along with a video intercom system. Additional options available include on-site parking, storage units and bike racks.
A dozen units have already been sold, and the condominium is on the cusp of being declared effective. “I’ve been in Long Island City for years now, and have seen it come into its own,” Suna said. “We’ve provided quality living space.” As Long Island City has become a flourishing home to art, style and culture, the Industry is also raising the stakes of luxurious living.
