Just southwest of Downtown, Jersey City’s Lafayette neighborhood is no longer a secret. Its seemingly overnight emergence from old warehouses and vacant lots into what is arguably the City’s hottest and most hip neighborhood is nothing short of incredible.
The dynamic transformation of Lafayette over the last few years began when Point Capital Development opened The Baker Building — a lower cost, value-oriented option in an increasingly expensive housing market. Now, the same firm that started it all is unveiling its second offering in the neighborhood: Garabrant. Still true to the company’s value-oriented approach, it may also be the area’s coolest rental building.
In a sea of ubiquitous black brick buildings, Garabrant stands out in stark contrast. Passersby can’t miss its unmistakable exterior featuring 80-foot tall blades of grass, a clear indication that Garabrant is different. Situated at 121 Garabrant Street, the 80-unit building is a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom rentals, ranging from 485-950 square feet. A canopied entrance leads to an industrial lobby — which is more like a funky boutique hotel with indoor turf, swing seats, and a living wall that livens up the raw concrete and exposed ceiling.
A variety of floor plans reveals refreshing interiors with high-end features and straightforward chic finishes. More importantly, the building is very competitively priced — prices start at $1,650 with the majority priced between $1,700 and $1,900 a month.
Engineered hardwood floors run throughout and recessed lighting is overhead, all with dimmers. High-tech perks include an online individual resident portal, epayments, building Wi-Fi, video intercom, laundry app, and easy keyless FOB entry.
Kitchens channel efficiency and a Soho loft-style with slick lacquer cabinets in white and grey, marbled Quartz countertops, and a classic white subway tile backsplash. Stainless steel appliances include a dishwasher and microwave.
The rich walnut flooring continues into the bathrooms for a unique but seamless look. Clad in dark skinny glass subway tile, some baths have a bathtub/shower combo with standout fixtures and others have a sexy glass-enclosed standing shower. Floating white lacquer vanities with dark stone tops and modern lighting complete the look.
Garabrant gives residents the amenities they expect — included in their rent at no charge — plus some: A fitness center, sauna, roof deck, elevated rear patio with conversation “rooms,” a fire pit and bbq grills, and bike storage. On-site parking for cars is available for an additional charge. The common laundry room on the lobby level has an app to let you know when a machine is free and when your laundry is finished.
With a fully equipped gym of cardio equipment and free weights, you can probably drop your expensive membership somewhere else. After your workout, you can relax in the sauna, head to the roof deck for the tan and take in the sweeping view of Jersey City, Manhattan, and the Hudson River, or retreat to the back patio and hang out in one of the six cozy, outdoor rooms. With colorful furniture, string lights, and turf, not to mention the fire pit and bbq grills, they are sure to inspire endless happy hours with your neighbors.
121 Garabrant Street is just two-and-a-half blocks from the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Liberty State Park station, offering great proximity to Downtown Jersey City and Manhattan. Residents will also benefit from the Jersey Avenue extension that will directly connect Lafayette to Downtown Jersey City.
Already 50% leased, it’s clear renters have noticed Garabrant offers something different.
To experience the hip hotel-style rental building yourself visit garabrant-jerseycity.com or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment for a private showing. Or, stop by the open house this weekend, 12-2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
