Overview
One Manhattan Square is a striking residential skyscraper that has dramatically reshaped the Lower East Side skyline.
Standing 847 feet (258 meters) tall, this 80-story glass tower at 252 South Street is a monument to modern luxury and architectural ambition.
Developed by Extell Development Company and completed in 2019, the building offers its residents unparalleled panoramic views of the East River, Manhattan, and Brooklyn, along with one of the most extensive private amenity packages in New York City.
While often searched for by its prominent name, it's important to note its location is in the historic Two Bridges neighborhood on the Lower East Side, not SoHo.
This tower is primarily for those seeking a high-end residential experience, from young professionals to families.
It stands out not only for its height in a traditionally low-rise neighborhood but also for its commitment to providing a complete lifestyle.
With over 100,000 square feet of amenities surrounded by lush private gardens designed by West 8, One Manhattan Square is more of a vertical private resort than a simple apartment building.
For visitors and locals, it serves as a significant architectural landmark, best viewed from the nearby waterfront or the Manhattan Bridge.
What to See & Do
As One Manhattan Square is a private residential building, public access to the tower and its grounds is restricted. The experience for non-residents is centered on observing its impressive architecture and its integration into the New York City skyline.
- Architectural Observation: The building's sleek, glass-clad facade was designed by Adamson Associates Architects and Dattner Architects. Its sheer height and modern design create a dramatic contrast with the historic brick buildings of the Two Bridges neighborhood.
- Photography: The tower is highly photogenic. Excellent vantage points can be found along the East River Esplanade, from the Manhattan Bridge pedestrian walkway, or across the river from Brooklyn Bridge Park. Capturing the building at sunrise or sunset when the light reflects off its glass exterior makes for stunning images.
- Explore the Neighborhood: The building's location is a great starting point for exploring the Lower East Side and nearby Chinatown. Discover the area's rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene just steps away.
Resident-Exclusive Amenities
For residents, One Manhattan Square offers an incredible array of private amenities, including:
- A 75-foot three-lane saltwater swimming pool.
- A full-court indoor basketball court.
- A two-lane bowling alley and squash court.
- State-of-the-art fitness center, cardio rooms, and a golf simulator.
- A plush theater and performance space.
- An intimate cellar bar, culinary lounge, and wine tasting room.
- Over an acre of private outdoor gardens featuring fire pits, grilling stations, and a children's playground.
Facilities & Amenities
All facilities and amenities at One Manhattan Square are for the exclusive use of its residents and their guests. There are no public facilities available within the building.
- For Residents: The building boasts a comprehensive suite of amenities including multiple lounges, a spa with a sauna and steam room, a business center, a children's playroom, and 24-hour doorman and concierge services.
- Public Facilities: There are no public toilets, cafes, or visitor centers within One Manhattan Square. The nearby East River Esplanade offers public benches and open space.
Getting There
One Manhattan Square is located on the Lower East Side waterfront, offering convenient access to multiple transport options.
- Address: 252 South Street, New York, NY 10002.
- By Subway: The nearest subway station is East Broadway, served by the F train. It's approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the station to the building.
- By Bus: Several bus routes service the area, including the M15, M22, and M9, providing connections to other parts of Manhattan.
- By Car: The building is easily accessible from the FDR Drive (Exit 3). On-site parking is available for residents, but public parking is limited to street parking and private garages in the vicinity.
- By Bicycle: A Citi Bike docking station is located nearby, and the East River Greenway provides a safe and scenic route for cyclists.
Best Time to Visit
For those interested in viewing and photographing the building's exterior, the best times are during the "golden hours" of sunrise and sunset.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds on the surrounding streets and bridges, while sunset provides dramatic views as the city lights begin to sparkle. The building's glass facade beautifully captures the changing colors of the sky.
The area is accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for walking around the neighborhood and along the waterfront. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and windy, especially by the river.
History & Significance
Constructed between 2014 and 2019, One Manhattan Square is a prominent example of the vertical residential boom in New York City during the 21st century. It was developed by the Extell Development Company, a firm known for other major projects like Central Park Tower.
The site was previously occupied by a Pathmark supermarket, a vital community resource whose demolition in 2014 was met with some local controversy.
The tower's construction marked a significant change for the Two Bridges neighborhood, introducing a new level of luxury and scale to an area historically defined by tenement buildings and public housing.
The building's presence has been a topic of discussion regarding urban development, gentrification, and the changing character of New York City's historic neighborhoods.
Walks & Trails
While there are no trails within the private grounds of One Manhattan Square, its location is perfect for enjoying some of the city's best urban walks.
- East River Greenway: Right outside the building, this waterfront path offers fantastic views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, the Statue of Liberty, and the river traffic. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling.
- Manhattan Bridge Walkway: For a breathtaking perspective of One Manhattan Square and the downtown skyline, take a walk across the Manhattan Bridge. The south side walkway provides a direct and iconic view of the tower rising above its surroundings.
- Neighborhood Exploration: Wander the streets of the Lower East Side to experience its history, from the Tenement Museum to the iconic delis and bakeries that have been serving the community for generations.
Visitor Tips
For those wishing to view this architectural landmark, here are a few insider tips:
- Respect Resident Privacy: Remember that this is a private home for hundreds of families. All observation and photography should be done from public areas without disturbing residents.
- Best Photo Spot: For a classic shot, walk about a third of the way onto the Manhattan Bridge from the Manhattan side. This vantage point allows you to frame the tower with the bridge's steel structure and the surrounding cityscape.
- Combine Your Visit: Make it a part of a larger exploration. After viewing the building, walk over to Chinatown for dim sum, explore the art galleries of the Lower East Side, or enjoy the waterfront views at Pier 35.
- Check for Events: The nearby East River Amphitheater sometimes hosts public events and performances, offering another reason to visit the area.
