34 N 7th St

The Edge South

Can luxury living be environmentally sustainable? The Edge makes a case for it. Despite its over-the-top amenities, including two indoor pools, The Edge stands as one of the most energy-efficient residential buildings in Williamsburg — two of them, in fact. The South Tower, built and completed by Douglas Development in 2008, is one of a pair of waterfront luxury condominiums, facing each other across 6th street, with postcard views of the East River and Manhattan’s skyline. As the largest of the two with 360 residences across 15 floors, The South Tower faces North 5th Street Pier and Park, famed as the East River Ferry’s North Williamsburg landing. Besides being just steps from the most underrated transit option in New York City, the building’s design has been LEED-gold certified by the U.S. Green Buildings Council. According to the Observer, 84% of the waste was recycled during construction. “Green design features at The Edge translate into both healthier living and cost savings for the residents,” says Jeffrey Levin, chairperson of Douglaston Development, in a release. The building’s various high-efficiency HVAC systems and energy-efficient appliances and fixtures emit less greenhouse gases and come with the added benefit of lower energy bills. Recognized with LEED Gold certification, every dwelling features water-saving low-flow plumbing fixtures, non-VOC interior finishes, and Energy Star appliances for efficiency. The interiors are thoughtfully designed with open floorplans, while the kitchens boast FSC-certified wooden cabinetry and spacious pantries. Each unit includes a Bosch washer-dryer and expansive closets for ample storage. A 718-square-foot studio with a private terrace lists for between $999,000 and $1.2 million. A large two-bedroom with a terrace overlooking waterfront views of Manhattan could list for between $1.7 million and $2.6 million. The grandest unit in the building, a four-bedroom penthouse duplex with two private terraces, a formal dining room and a primary suite, last sold for $4.5 million in 2014. Because The Edge comprises a North and a South tower, residents can access the amenities spaces in both buildings. “It’s like having an Equinox sports club in your building,” says Warner Lewis, licensed real estate broker at Brown Harris Stevens and building tenant, who has sold and rented out upwards of 100 listings since the building opened. Lewis frequents the extensive amenities, including wellness spaces like an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzi, Turkish steam baths and a fully equipped fitness center with a separate movement studio. Outdoor spaces are plentiful, boasting an outdoor courtyard and a rooftop terrace. The residents’ lounge is equipped with a screening room, a virtual golf simulator, a children’s playroom and a lounge with a kitchen and oversized TVs. The South Tower is a full-service building with a 24-hour door attendant, an on-site resident manager and full-time porters. According to Lewis, the 421-a tax abatement appeals to investors, pied-à-terre buyers, and those seeking stable living arrangements. At The Edge, buyers can anticipate remarkably low monthly costs due to this tax break, which significantly reduces property taxes until 2036. For instance, a $2.1 million two-bedroom condo on the 14th floor incurs only $6 in monthly taxes alongside $1,318 in common fees. In comparison, The Oosten, a luxury high-rise condominium on the Williamsburg waterfront, starts its monthly tax fees at $527 for a one-bedroom residence priced at $1.5 million. Williamsburg, a vibrant neighborhood, boasts an astonishing variety of bars and restaurants. Among the notable establishments, Peter Luger Steakhouse stands out—an iconic classic since 1887, renowned for its mouthwatering and bloody steaks (and not much else). Diner, a charming spot with farm-to-table specialties, offers a unique dining experience inside a rail car, steeped in two decades of history. Miss Favela, located near the Williamsburg Bridge on South 5th Street, serves up traditional Brazilian fare, lively music, and refreshing pitchers of caipirinhas. For taco enthusiasts, Tacombi near Metropolitan Avenue is a must-visit, while Maison Premiere at Grand and Bedford tempts with oysters and gin martinis. Grocery shopping is a breeze at Trader Joe’s on Kent Avenue or Whole Foods on Bedford Avenue. Nearby parks include Bushwick Inlet Park, offering soccer fields and waterfront views, and Domino Park along the East River, where Manhattan vistas and picnic spots abound. Further inland, McCarren Park boasts athletic fields, bocce courts, tennis facilities, outdoor exercise equipment and a popular running track. According to Google Maps, residents at The Edge can walk to the ferry landing by the waterfront in just under 3 minutes to access the East River route. Otherwise, the L train is under half a mile on Bedford Avenue and North 7Th Street.