By Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
New rende
rings have been released for the proposed transformation of 609 Fifth Avenue in Midtown East, Manhattan. The project, designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects and co-developed by RJ Capital Holdings and Top Rock Holdings, calls for converting the existing 14-story office building into a 29-story residential tower. The redesigned structure would rise from 187 to 408 feet and expand from approximately 133,000 to nearly 226,000 square feet — an increase of roughly 93,000 square feet. The address is also known as 4 East 49th Street and sits at the southeast corner of Fifth Avenue and East 49th Street.
The conversion is expected to yield 66 condominium units, with residences beginning on the third floor. The fourth floor would retain office use, the fifth floor would offer a mix of residential and commercial space, and all remaining floors above would be dedicated exclusively to condominiums, with half- and full-floor configurations available.
The main rendering depicts a significant architectural overhaul: the prewar stone façade would be replaced by a modern glass curtain wall with light gray concrete spandrels, accented by greenery. The existing glass storefront of the Puma retail space at the base would be preserved, and a wraparound loggia terrace would be carved out at the level above. A setback at the ninth story aligns with the current massing before the tower continues upward with a slimmer profile. The upper floors feature a series of terraces and balconies on the western elevation, some with open cutouts, and the building would culminate in a tall bulkhead. Upper-level landscaped terraces are also shown in closer renderings, highlighting greenery along the edges of the floor plates.
In terms of transit access, the site is well connected. The B, D, F, and M trains at the 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center station are located a short walk west along Sixth Avenue. Grand Central Madison, serving the Long Island Rail Road, is also nearby.
Further details about the project’s timeline and specifications have not yet been disclosed.
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
