A co-op in Cliffside Park, perched on the Palisades with panoramic views, has reimagined itself from the inside out. More than just a rebrand, though they did that too, the building’s Board of Directors worked to leverage the co-op’s location and elevate it to the level of any new construction condo along New Jersey’s Gold Coast. Renamed Apogee, the 30-story building at 250 Gorge Road is now fully amenitized, driving resale values, without a cent of new assessment.
All members of the Board are residents of the building and brought a variety of expertise to the project. Inspired by a proactive approach and attuned to the demands and desires of the marketplace, the Board planned a top-down improvement program which included a new entrance, newly designed common spaces, new amenities, and new building systems throughout. Although the renovation was spurred by new condo construction in the area and can certainly compete on a trophy building level, Apogee remains, by comparison, an affordable place to call home through co-op ownership.
“We firmly believe that goal has been achieved by modernizing the building from top to
bottom without any financial burden to our existing owners,” said Hatice Dalton, Board President, in a prepared release. “It has created a scenario where Apogee now offers the same level of luxury, comfort and appeal as new-construction Gold Coast condominiums, all while retaining its inherent value when compared with pricing at area properties.”
The $5 million program included commissioning Manhattan architect Steve Kratchman. “My vision was to bring a stylistic, Manhattan feel to the building through design and new luxury amenities that would elevate residents’ lifestyles to a modern day, resort-like experience,” said Kratchman. “It all comes together in a sophisticated ‘SoHo-vibe’ that perfectly complements the building’s suburban, park-like location and close-knit, family-friendly environment.”
An updated facade evokes a high-end hotel approach with a new driveway of pavers, new signage, and new lighting, as well as seasonal landscaping and a new canopy. The structure is a mix of glass, steel, and wood.
The three-story lobby is a true showpiece, with soaring height and the contrast of sleek lines and natural materials. First, second, and third-floor elevator bays are immediately visible, softened by a stone surround, and the eye travels upward to a cathedral-like ceiling. Back on the ground, a two-sided fireplace warms the contemporary setting and a four-sided living green wall envelopes the 24/7 concierge desk for a lush interior landscape.
The resident fitness center was expanded, and now includes a separate yoga and Pilates studio. Additional resident perks include a children’s playroom, community room, a library, and a lounge with its very own Genius Bar.
The outdoor amenities include a large heated swimming pool and lounge chairs. A children’s pool and a hot tub are also available while lighted tennis courts and a BBQ area with waterfront views offer additional outdoor activities.
Behind-the-scenes upgrades were an essential part of the program also, resulting in faster elevators, a backup generator, new boilers, upgraded electric, new water distribution and treatment systems, new heating and cooling units for common areas, and state-of-the-art safety monitoring, as well as fire and smoke alarms.
Comprised of 312 one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, Apogee offers open layouts, many with balconies and/or views. Floor plans range from 796-1,646 square feet, and pricing from $209,999-$568,888. According to a prepared release, the renovation and modernization of the building have already driven home values with sales prices up an average of 12.9%.
Apogee is located in Cliffside Park with access to Manhattan via express bus or ferry. Both the George Washington Bridge and Lincoln Tunnel are nearby and the Hudson River waterfront connects the community to Edgewater, North Bergen, Hoboken, and Jersey City.
