Built between 1899 and 1901, the building was originally named The Estling, meaning
“from the vast west.”

At the turn of the century, this stretch of Riverside Drive really did feel like the frontier. Historical photos show horse-drawn carriages and gas lamps lining dirt streets; automobiles only began to appear regularly after 1910. (Electricity didn’t reach this neighborhood until 1896—just a few years before construction began.)

According to NYC Landmarks, the building is designed in the Neo-Renaissance style. Think The Gilded Age, only much (much, MUCH) smaller! Architect John Woolley, who also designed 227 Riverside just to the north where our Super lives, gave it the gracious proportions and detailing that still define it today.

Enjoy a look at some historical photos of the building and neighborhood, along with current shots of our façade, lobby, and elevator – which have all recently been restored to their original glory.

Inside the newly-restored
elevator cab.

Looking down the seven story staircase.

More than a century ago…
Notice the dirt road and the awnings on the windows of 224 Riverside Drive (the middle building on the right).

Every year, the coop makes improvements. Modern conveniences have since blended seamlessly with the building’s historic charm. Spectrum cable and Verizon Fios are wired throughout. The restored elevator goes to the basement where there is a laundry, storage units, and a bike room. Our intercom system is Butterfly MX, which allows you to safely buzz people into the building even when you’re away from home.