By Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
The hotel-to-residential conversion of 440 West 57th Street is taking shape with the release of a new rendering. The project will transform a former hotel complex in Hell’s Kitchen into a condominium development along West 57th Street.
The site is located between Ninth and Tenth Avenues and spans both West 57th and West 56th Streets.
Building History and Site Configuration
The development consists of two connected structures. A 17-story tower rises along West 57th Street, while an 11-story annex fronts West 56th Street.
The property originally opened in 1963 as a Holiday Inn. It later operated as the Watson Hotel before closing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design and Development Team
The conversion is being designed by Isaac & Stern Architects and developed by Isaac Hera of Yellowstone. The project will involve a full re-cladding of both buildings.
Once complete, the former 600 hotel rooms will be replaced with 316 condominium units.
Architectural Redesign
The newly released rendering shows a dramatically reworked façade along West 57th Street. Floor-to-ceiling windows are arranged in a symmetrical pattern and framed by sculpted stone panels.
Vertical columns rise to arched detailing near the top of the building, creating a more residential and refined appearance.
440 West 57th Street. Photo by Michael Young.
Ground Floor and Upper Levels
At street level, large arched openings will frame a glass-enclosed lobby and a porte-cochère at the western end of the building.
The upper floors are set back from the street and finished with a continuous glass façade accented by dark mullions. A landscaped rooftop terrace and a marble-clad bulkhead complete the design.
Residential Amenities
Amenities planned for residents include a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, entertainment lounge, gaming room, and pet playroom.
The hotel’s existing outdoor pool and roof terrace will also be refurbished as part of the conversion.
Ownership and Financing
Yellowstone acquired the leasehold interest and existing mortgage on the property from HSBC for $175 million in 2021. The firm has since secured a $326 million construction loan for the redevelopment.
After the hotel closed, the property briefly operated as a temporary migrant shelter.
Sales, Transit, and Timeline
Sales and marketing for the condominium residences will be handled by Reuveni Real Estate. The property is located near the A, B, C, D, and 1 subway lines at the 59th Street–Columbus Circle station.
A construction timeline for the redevelopment of 440 West 57th Street has not yet been announced.
Want to learn more? Let’s talk!
All the best,
Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
Christie’s International Real Estate Group
(212) 956-4823
mha@christiesrealestategroup.com
