Project posted by Jeff Simmons

Gothic-Inspired Luxury Residences on a Historical Seminary Campus

Year
2023
Structure
Condo
The building's setback masses and simple abstracted detailing create a memorable silhouette against the sky.
The building's setback masses and simple abstracted detailing create a memorable silhouette against the sky.
The Collegiate Gothic architectural style of the tower takes cues from the Gothic Revival character of Union Theological Seminary. A literal use of Gothic stonework at the base seamlessly connects the entry facade with the surrounding historic campus buildings.
The Collegiate Gothic architectural style of the tower takes cues from the Gothic Revival character of Union Theological Seminary. A literal use of Gothic stonework at the base seamlessly connects the entry facade with the surrounding historic campus buildings.
The 165 residences feature sweeping river and park views, generous ceiling heights, oversized windows and European white oak flooring.
The 165 residences feature sweeping river and park views, generous ceiling heights, oversized windows and European white oak flooring.
A stunning 48-foot indoor saltwater pool by CetraRuddy – once a refectory for seminary students and faculty – includes soaring Gothic ceilings, original chandeliers, ceiling beams and stained glass windows, making it a serene retreat for residents year-round.
A stunning 48-foot indoor saltwater pool by CetraRuddy – once a refectory for seminary students and faculty – includes soaring Gothic ceilings, original chandeliers, ceiling beams and stained glass windows, making it a serene retreat for residents year-round.

From Jeff Simmons

Situated within the campus of Union Theological Seminary (UTS) – a globally respected 180-year-old center of theological education – is Claremont Hall, a 41-story, mixed-use condominium building designed by iconic New York architecture firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA). This transformative, luxurious development provides residents with majestic views of the Hudson River, Riverside Park, Central Park and Midtown Manhattan and offers unparalleled access to the rich culture and academic community of the broader Morningside Heights neighborhood.

Located at 100 Claremont Avenue at the corner of West 120th Street, Claremont Hall was designed by RAMSA in collaboration with UTS to integrate with the broader campus and surrounding neighborhood. The Collegiate Gothic architectural style of the tower takes cues from the Gothic Revival character of UTS. The building’s setback masses and simple abstracted detailing create a memorable silhouette against the sky, while a more literal use of Gothic stonework at the base seamlessly connects the entry facade with the surrounding historic campus buildings. A painterly mix of contrasting bricks and cast stone on the exterior allows Claremont Hall to seamlessly integrate with the visual texture of its surroundings. Select residences are similarly envisioned to inspire with bold details such as bay windows and loggias.

Claremont Hall boasts 165 condominiums ranging from one to four bedrooms, all designed by RAMSA. The homes feature sweeping river and park views, generous ceiling heights, oversized windows and European white oak flooring. The state-of-the-art open kitchens are appointed with a Bosch appliance package, custom RAMSA-designed Italian cabinetry with a choice of a classic Bianco or modern Grigio finish, Calacatta Laza quartz countertops and chrome fixtures and hardware. Select homes feature private outdoor terraces overlooking the city and the Hudson River.

The impressive suite of amenities and the lobby arrival – designed in partnership with CetraRuddy Architects – merge Old World influences with a fresh sensibility. The curated mix of amenities include a walnut-paneled library, grand dining room, children’s playroom, a creative maker’s room, resident lounge with a terrace, fitness center, onsite parking and a stunning 48-foot indoor saltwater pool. Once a refectory for seminary students and faculty, the pool includes soaring Gothic ceilings, original chandeliers, ceiling beams and stained glass windows, making it a serene retreat for residents year-round. The entire amenity collection features modern yet earthy colors, textures and materials, along with a balance of classical and contemporary furniture, creating a design scheme that is both aspirational and approachable.

Once fully constructed, Claremont Hall will also provide approximately 54,000 square feet of modern classrooms, academic offices and faculty-designated apartments. The new building is targeting the U.S. Green Building Council standards for LEED Gold Certification.

From its elevated position overlooking the Hudson River, Claremont Hall sits at the crown of the Upper West Side and integrates with the historic context of the Morningside Heights neighborhood, a community of brilliance and natural beauty. Claremont Hall is easily accessible to many of the city’s most significant parks, including Riverside Park, Sakura Park, Central Park and Morningside Park. With its contextual architecture, the building is at home among several architectural icons including Riverside Church, General Grant National Memorial, the Peace Fountain and Columbia University.