The Dakota stands as one of the most iconic landmarks of the Upper West Side. This architectural marvel, completed in 1884, was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh. The Dakota is renowned for its German Renaissance style, intricate gables, and spires. It gained further fame as the residence of John Lennon, where he was tragically assassinated in 1980.
The American Museum of Natural History, established in 1869, is another Upper West Side treasure. The museum's architecture, especially the Romanesque Revival style of the original building, is worth noting. The Rose Center for Earth and Space, added in 2000, features a striking glass cube enclosing the Hayden Sphere, symbolizing the universe.
The Ansonia, completed in 1904, is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece designed by Paul E. Duboy. Originally a residential hotel, it is known for its lavish apartments and unique history. The building housed a farm on the roof, providing fresh eggs and milk to its residents, an unusual feature for a Manhattan building.
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the world's largest cathedrals, began construction in 1892. The structure combines Romanesque and Gothic elements and is still technically unfinished. The cathedral is renowned for its Peace Fountain, which juxtaposes the struggle between good and evil, displaying a hybrid of religious and mythological symbols.
The San Remo, a twin-towered building constructed in 1930, was designed by Emery Roth. This Art Deco structure is notable for its celebrity residents, including Demi Moore and Steve Jobs. The towers were inspired by the bell towers of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, adding a European flair to the New York skyline.
The Apthorp, built between 1906 and 1908, is a testament to the Italian Renaissance Revival style. Designed by Clinton & Russell, it features a grand, gated courtyard, a rarity in Manhattan. The building's grandeur and attention to detail make it a standout architectural gem.
The New York Historical Society, founded in 1804, is the oldest museum in New York City. Its current building, completed in 1908, was designed by York and Sawyer. The society's mission to preserve New York's history is reflected in its classical Beaux-Arts architecture.
The Eldorado, completed in 1931, is another Emery Roth creation. Its Art Deco design and twin towers make it one of the most recognizable buildings on the Upper West Side. The building has housed numerous celebrities, such as Alec Baldwin and Moby, adding to its allure and mystique.
These architectural marvels not only define the skyline of the Upper West Side but also encapsulate the rich history and cultural significance of the area. Each building tells a story of design, innovation, and the vibrant tapestry of New York City life.