1960s NYC Office Building to be Expanded and Converted into Residential

Current building at 219-229 East 42nd Street. Image: Marshall Gerometta, CTBUH

13 February 2025 | New York City, United States

Designs have been released for the proposed residential conversion of the former Pfizer headquarters at 229 East 42nd Street and its adjoining annex at 219 East 42nd Street in Midtown East, Manhattan. Designed by architecture firm Gensler and developed by Metro Loft Development LLC and David Werner Real Estate Investments, the project involves a full renovation of the 33-story main tower, a complete re-cladding of its mid-century façade, and the addition of 19 floors atop the annex.

Once completed, the development will feature 1,600 rental units, with 25 percent designated for affordable housing. The expanded annex currently at 10 stories, will more than double to reach 29 stories and contribute 536 apartments. The buildings will also include 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters) of amenities, a 30-foot (9-meter) rear yard, and ground-floor retail space.

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219-229 East 42nd Street (Complex)

Pfizer Building

229 East 42nd Street

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Pfizer Building

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Gensler

Renderings released show a new, lighter façade replacing the dark paneling of the original design, while the annex’s glass addition will have thinner mullions. Landscaped terraces will be integrated into the setbacks and roof parapets.

Amenities will include a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and additional facilities yet to be announced. The property is located near Grand Central Terminal, offering access to multiple subway lines, Metro-North, and the Long Island Rail Road. Expected to start construction in 2025, a full schedule and completion date have not been confirmed.

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