New luxury building designed by Pei Partnership
Post Date: 22 Apr 2009 Viewed: 931
Sandi Pei, design partner of Pei Partnership Architects, is joined by his legendary father I.M. Pei, in designing their first ground-up residential condominium building, The Centurion. The Centurion by Pei Partnership Architects with I.M. Pei presents a space designed by the architectural team that created the Bank of China headquarters in Beijing and Hong Kong and the Four Seasons Hotel in Manhattan. I.M. Pei is also the creator of The Pyramid, which modernized Paris'Louvre Museum.
"We describe The Centurion as a bespoke tailor describes his art: a balanced composition of exquisite materials and richly crafted details that will never look old or dated," said Sandi Pei. "This project was an unprecedented opportunity to design a building as a work of art in a prime area of New York City that pulsates with life."
Located on 56th Street just west of Fifth Avenue, The Centurion is currently the only ground up residential building under construction in this world-famous upscale shopping corridor. Developed by Stillman Development International and Antonio Development, the 48 one-to-four-bedroom homes, including 13 terraced residences and three penthouses, will offer 750 to 3,400 square feet of living space.
Interior architecture by SLCE Architects consists of exceptionally spacious homes, several of which boast double-height rooms with up to 17-foot ceilings. Each of The Centurion's 31 unique floor plans will maximize the openness of living areas, and lightly reflective insulating glass windows will allow homeowners to enjoy city views, while maintaining tranquility inside the home.
The Centurion's exterior will be fully clad in hand-set French "Chamesson" limestone quarried from same region as the limestone that forms the façade of The Four Seasons Hotel in Manhattan, as well as the interior of The Pyramid at the Louvre museum. The graceful 19-story Centurion will feature a dynamic stepped profile consisting of a succession of cascading terraces. A symmetrical arrangement of five double-height windows with pewter-colored aluminum mullions will complete the building's principal south-facing façade.
An entrance canopy of dark aluminum, nickel, stainless steel and translucent glass will welcome residents into The Centurion's stunning lobby, where a tranquil outdoor Water garden will be visible through a glass wall. The garden's fountain cascades water into a reflection pool, providing a unique and soothing view. The lobby is finished with decorative marbles, rich leathers and French "Magny du Louvre" limestone floor and continuous accent wall.