Press

Fifteen years ago, it looked as though the Manhattan skyline was on the verge of being overwhelmed by glass and metal towers, austere monuments to Modernism that often lacked the warmth and character of the city's historic architecture. However, recent developments suggest a resurgence of traditional design principles in both public and private construction.

In January 2025, President Donald Trump reinstated the controversial "Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture" executive order, originally issued in 2020. This directive mandates that federal buildings adopt classical architectural styles, such as Neoclassicism, emphasizing designs that are "visually identifiable as civic buildings" and that "respect regional, traditional, and classical architectural heritage." Further asserting federal influence over state and local projects, the Trump administration took control of the $7 billion renovation of New York City's Penn Station in April 2025.

Move-ins at 255 East 77th Street, a limestone-clad tower designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and developed by Naftali Group, are expected to begin later this year. With no more than four homes per floor, and full-floor penthouses topping the tower, each residence offers grand proportions, soaring ceilings, and exquisite finishes, including Calacatta marble kitchens and spa-like baths. Residents will enjoy a full suite of amenities by Yabu Pushelberg, including a 75-foot indoor pool, wellness spa, sports simulator, recording studio, and even an automated private parking garage tucked behind a discreet porte-cochère.