Aby Rosen and Michael Fuchs, founders and principals of RFR Holding LLC, and YU Liang and ZHANG Xu of Vanke, China’s largest residential real estate developer, last week broke ground on a new luxury residential condominium on East 53rd Street.
Designed by Foster + Partners, the slim white tower at 610 Lexington Avenue will rise 700 feet and 61 stories.
RFR and Hines will work together on construction of the building through a joint development management agreement.
“The 610 Lexington Avenue project is our first in New York City, and our second in the United States.
“It truly reflects Vanke’s globalization objective of forging strategic partnerships with world-class developers and learning through close collaboration,” said YU Liang, president of Vanke.
“Its fine architecture will undoubtedly transform the New York City skyline and redefine modern urban living. We are also excited to see Sir Norman Foster’s incredible vision take shape and become reality in the midst of such distinguished architectural neighbors.”
Rosen said, “It’s rare to have the opportunity to create a tower of such elegant proportions, and rarer still to do so in such an architecturally rich section of Midtown Manhattan.
“The location of our site is extraordinary, and the demand for highest-end condominiums in Midtown has never been stronger. Our goal is to combine the finest residences with thoughtful, creative amenities that enhance Manhattan living.”
Foster + Partners’ design features a pure white façade with undulating glass, in a slim, simple shape.
“Its proportions are almost impossibly slim and the views will be just incredible,” said Foster + Partners.
“Simplicity of design is often the hardest thing to achieve but in a sophisticated marketplace, people appreciate the timeless beauty that comes from it. Our design philosophy has always extended through the entire building and we will look to create interiors that blend seamlessly with the exterior approach.”
