The Dakota, located at Upper West Side, Manhattan, is one of New York City’s most famous and mysterious residential buildings. Completed in 1884, it was commissioned by Edward Clark, head of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. The building was designed by architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh in the German Renaissance Revival style.
The Dakota is renowned for its ornate details, such as the elaborate façade, terracotta spandrels, and the grand archway entrance, which leads to a picturesque courtyard. The interior features high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and spacious apartments, each uniquely designed. Notably, the building originally included stables and a tennis court, reflecting the luxury living standards of the time.
One of the most significant aspects of The Dakota is its status as a New York City Landmark, designated in 1969, and its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This recognition underscores its architectural and historical importance.
The Dakota has been home to numerous celebrities and influential figures. Among its famous residents was John Lennon, a member of The Beatles, who lived there with his wife, Yoko Ono. Tragically, Lennon was assassinated outside the building in 1980, a fact that adds to the building's mystique.
Another notable resident was the composer Leonard Bernstein, who lived in The Dakota for many years. The building has also been featured in various films and TV shows, most famously in the 1968 horror movie "Rosemary's Baby," directed by Roman Polanski.
The Dakota’s exclusivity is underscored by its stringent co-op board, known for its rigorous and often secretive vetting process. Applicants have included celebrities such as Madonna and Antonio Banderas, who were reportedly rejected.
A hidden fact about The Dakota is its name origin; it was rumored to be named because the area was so sparsely populated at the time it was built, likened to the remote Dakota Territory. Another lesser-known aspect is that the building was one of the first to feature modern amenities like elevators and central heating, which were groundbreaking at the time.
The Dakota remains a symbol of luxury, history, and intrigue, continuing to captivate the public’s imagination through its architectural grandeur and storied past.