Whether you’re loaded and looking for a luxury apartment to live in, or simply have your coal-blackened face pressed up against the window like some Dickensian chimney sweep (stop smearing the glass, pleb!), these new domiciles to rent are something to behold. Move into one of these buildings and perks can include pools, roof-decks with fireplaces and barbecue areas, gyms and yoga studios, and even a pet wash. Get the lowdown on the Frank Gehry–designed Mercedes House, the Union in Williamsburg and which units are currently discounted.
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BKLYN Gold
This complex courts renters with lavish amenities, from the ground-floor lobby to the landscaped roof deck. In addition to the usual doorman building perks (24-hour concierge, valet services), BKLYN Gold has a skylighted indoor pool, private rooftop cabanas and a barbecue area. The apartments are appointed with swanky custom closets and built-in surround sound. If you’ve been squirreling away funds, it might be worthwhile to splurge on one of the units with a washer-dryer or outdoor terrace, especially since you can get a deal on the rent. Studios start at $2,085, one-bedrooms at $2,379 and two-bedrooms at $3,089, but you’ll get a month free with a one-year lease and two months gratis with a two-year lease. 257–277 Gold St between Concord and Tillary Sts, Downtown Brooklyn (718-522-3500, bklyngold.com)
Arias
New York isn’t known for its peace and quiet, but a yoga room and an outdoor garden lend tranquility to this Kings County residence. Burn off your city rage in the modern fitness center, or if you prefer golfing to jogging and padmasana, seek refuge in the putting green. Within the light-flooded apartments, you’ll find stainless steel appliances (including dishwashers and washer-dryers), walk-in closets and spa-inspired bathrooms. Sports fans and music lovers will appreciate the building’s proximity to the brand-new Barclays Center, too. One-bedrooms start at $3,200. 150 Fourth Ave between Butler and Douglass Sts, Park Slope, Brooklyn (646-260-4541, ariasparkslope.com)
Tapestry
Eco- and budget-minded Manhattanites would do well to consider this new LEED-certified mid-rise building in East Harlem. Energy-efficient appliances, heating-cooling systems and water-conserving plumbing not only reduce residents’ carbon footprints, but save money as well. The pet-friendly quarters—which are near both Marcus Garvey and Jefferson Parks—are more customized than in most modern buildings: There are 26 different floor plans and seven potential kitchen layouts. Renters have access to the 700-square-foot fitness center, landscaped roof area and media lounge. Available one-bedrooms begin at $1,941, while open two-bedrooms are $3,170 and up; select apartments will be discounted with a half month free. 245 E 124th St between Second and Third Aves (212-410-6505, tapestry124.com)
The Union
Anyone who opts for a rental in this Brooklyn building is likely to see an uptick in friend visits as soon as summer rolls around—the spacious patio, featuring a massive swimming pool, is a prime spot for sunny-day hanging out. Until then, fitness buffs can tone up on the exercise facility’s weight and cardio machines, while amateur chefs can put the state-of-the-art appliances in their open kitchens to good use. Shopping fiends and night owls are a five-minute walk from the retail and dining options around Bedford Avenue. Studios are priced at $2,525 and up; one-bedrooms are $3,000 and up; and two-bedrooms are $4,515 and up. 568 Union Ave between Frost and Richardson Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (877-444-2852, 568union.com)
220 Water
The loft-style spaces at this property balance rustic charm (wood-plank ceilings, exposed-brick walls) with industrial-chic details (original concrete and timber columns and beams, oversize windows). The common spaces, on the other hand, look entirely modern: A spacious rooftop features a sleek fireplace and two grills, and the fitness center includes a yoga facility. Other amenities range from a pet wash to on-site parking and private storage. Another bonus: enviable proximity to Brooklyn Bridge Park and its refurbished carousel. Studios with a separate den cost around $3,275; one-bedrooms are $5,175; and two-bedrooms with two bathrooms are $5,800. 220 Water St between Bridge and Jay Sts, Dumbo, Brooklyn (718-243-0220, 220water.com)
Mercedes House
The athletic facilities at this Midtown West building are enough to convince even the staunchest couch potatoes to vacate their cushions: Apartment dwellers can take advantage of an indoor basketball court, boxing area, golf simulator, outdoor screening area, indoor and outdoor pools, aerobics area and bocce court. Rentals feature expansive windows, sleek kitchens and high ceilings. Signing a 13- or 25-month lease subtracts one month’s rent from the tab, bringing studios to $2,850, one-bedrooms to $3,450 and two-bedrooms to $4,750. 550 W 54th St between Tenth and Eleventh Aves (212-876-6666, mercedeshouseny.com)