The San Remo: Twin-Towered Icon of Prestige
Origins and Construction
Located at 145-146 Central Park West between 74th and 75th Streets, The San Remo is perhaps the most iconic residential building on Central Park West. Completed in 1930 and designed by the legendary architect Emery Roth, it was the first twin-towered residential building in New York City. Built during the rise of the Art Deco movement, The San Remo was conceived as a new vision of luxury living that combined modern elegance with pre-war craftsmanship.
The building replaced the original Hotel San Remo and was developed as a cooperative with only two apartments per floor, a revolutionary concept that offered residents both space and exclusivity.
Design and Architecture
The San Remo is instantly recognizable for its soaring twin towers, which rise from a shared 17-story base and are topped with temple-like copper lanterns, echoing classical architectural motifs. The façade is clad in warm beige limestone and brick, with ornate carved detailing and subtle Art Deco flourishes throughout.
Apartments in The San Remo are renowned for their spacious layouts and high ceilings, offering features that are as prized today as they were nearly a century ago:
- Gracious entry galleries leading to grand living rooms.
- Wood-burning fireplaces, formal dining rooms, and large windowed kitchens.
- Stunning views of Central Park, particularly from the towers’ upper floors.
- Private elevator landings, ensuring both privacy and prestige.
The building also includes a fitness center, private storage, a residents’ lounge, and full-time doormen and concierge services.
Cultural and Celebrity Legacy
The San Remo is a magnet for celebrities, artists, and cultural influencers. Past and present residents have included Bono, Steve Martin, Rita Hayworth, Demi Moore, Glenn Close, and Diane Keaton. Perhaps its most famous resident was Steven Spielberg, who helped solidify the building’s reputation as one of the most coveted addresses in Manhattan.
Its aura of exclusivity, architectural beauty, and direct park frontage have made it a symbol of New York sophistication. Even among Central Park West’s historic buildings, The San Remo stands in a class of its own.
Central Park West and Lifestyle
With Central Park just across the street and institutions like the Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Center, and the Beacon Theatre nearby, The San Remo offers residents both serenity and culture in equal measure. Dining, boutique shopping, and access to excellent schools complete the portrait of a lifestyle that is both luxurious and livable.
An Architectural Legend with Enduring Appeal
The San Remo’s elegant twin towers remain an enduring symbol of pre-war opulence and timeless architectural design. For those seeking one of the most exclusive addresses on the Upper West Side, The San Remo continues to define what it means to live in historic, high-style luxury.