The Century: Art Deco Grandeur at the Heart of Central Park West
Origins and Construction
The Century, located at 25 Central Park West between 62nd and 63rd Streets, stands as one of the finest examples of Art Deco residential architecture in New York City. Completed in 1931, it was designed by the prolific architectural duo Irwin S. Chanin and Jacques Delamarre, who were instrumental in shaping the Art Deco landscape of Manhattan during the early 20th century.
Built on the site of the former Century Theatre, the building was part of a broader movement to modernize the West Side with luxurious, high-rise living. Developed during the Great Depression, The Century symbolized resilience and optimism through design — an elegant and forward-looking structure in a time of economic challenge.
Design and Architecture
The Century’s twin towers rise majestically from a 19-story base, with setbacks that create a distinctive stepped silhouette against the city skyline. Clad in creamy limestone and warm buff brick, the building is adorned with classic Art Deco motifs: vertical lines that emphasize height, stylized geometric detailing, and metallic accents that shimmer in the sunlight.
Its interiors were designed to balance modern efficiency with luxury. The original layouts included:
- Multiple wings per floor to maximize corner exposures and park views.
- Spacious foyers leading into open living and dining rooms.
- Large, steel-framed windows that flood each room with natural light.
- Elegant details such as sunken living rooms, original parquet flooring, and high ceilings.
In keeping with its era, The Century was conceived as a rental building and later converted to a condominium — a rare distinction among Central Park West's primarily cooperative buildings. Today, its condominium status allows for more flexible ownership, making it particularly attractive to international buyers and investors.
Cultural and Celebrity Legacy
The Century has long appealed to a sophisticated, global clientele, from prominent business figures to entertainment professionals. Over the decades, it has hosted an array of notable residents, including jazz legend Artie Shaw and film director Preston Sturges. Its close proximity to Lincoln Center and Columbus Circle has made it a prime residence for those connected to the performing arts and media industries.
Unlike some of its more high-profile neighbors, The Century offers a refined, understated kind of prestige — its allure lies in its architectural integrity, privacy, and central location.
Central Park West and Lifestyle
The Century is ideally situated for those who want to be at the intersection of culture, nature, and urban convenience. It offers immediate access to Central Park, with the tranquil Sheep Meadow and Tavern on the Green just steps away. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, home to the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet, is just around the corner. Gourmet dining, luxury shopping at The Shops at Columbus Circle, Whole Foods Market, and direct subway access via the 59th Street–Columbus Circle station make everyday life as seamless as it is sophisticated.
A Living Masterpiece of the Art Deco Age
The Century is more than a building — it is an architectural statement that continues to stand the test of time. Its twin towers remain a defining feature of the Central Park West skyline, and its legacy as a symbol of 1930s elegance lives on in every detail. For those seeking classic New York sophistication, architectural heritage, and unbeatable access to culture and nature, The Century delivers it all with enduring style.