As an architect, I’m often immersed in the intricate layers of NYC’s urban fabric, but every so often, something stops me in my tracks and reminds me just how remarkable our city is. I snapped these photos while walking between site visits, and what immediately struck me was the dramatic cantilever—one of the starkest examples I’ve seen in “real life” of what air rights look like in action.
For those not familiar, air rights are the unused development potential of a property. In NYC, property owners can sell these air rights, allowing developers to build higher by essentially borrowing unused vertical space. However, what you see in these photos—a striking cantilevered section—isn’t actually part of most air rights transfers. The right to cantilever over an adjacent property is a separately negotiated agreement, often requiring creative solutions and careful coordination.
Take “The Westly,” for example, a modern addition to NYC’s skyline that uses a stepped cantilever to expand its floor area in an innovative and visually compelling way. And then there’s the MoMA Expansion Tower (53W53), a stunning, slender skyscraper that ascends gracefully above the Museum of Modern Art, enabled by air rights purchases from nearby properties.
But let’s talk about what makes these projects so exciting. They don’t just demonstrate the practical benefits of maximizing urban density—they also showcase bold architectural creativity and the ways we navigate the complex puzzle of building in a city as dense and historic as New York.
In the photos I took, you can see how the larger, modern building essentially “hugs” its smaller, historic neighbor, preserving the existing structure while allowing for vertical growth. These kinds of juxtapositions are uniquely NYC—a city where progress and preservation are always in conversation.
Air rights are a critical tool for shaping our city’s skyline, but they come with their own set of challenges and negotiations. Whether it’s a stepped cantilever, a slender tower, or a seamless blend of old and new, each project tells its own story of how we balance creativity, history, and urban planning.
So, what do you think? Are air rights and cantilevers examples of NYC’s architectural ingenuity, or do they pose challenges to the character of our neighborhoods? Let us know your thoughts!
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As the temperatures begin to rise and the promise of spring approaches, the construction industry is buzzing with activity. At Mayta + Sebastian Architecture, we are thrilled to announce that our West 80th Street project is moving closer to reality! A key milestone in this journey was recently achieved with the bid walkthrough — a vital pre-construction step that sets the tone for a successful project.
What is a Bid Walkthrough?
For those unfamiliar with the term, a bid walkthrough is an essential part of the pre-construction process. It’s far more than just a quick tour of the site. This step is a collaborative event where bidders (contractors vying for the project) get an in-depth look at the project’s scope, site conditions, and unique challenges. It’s an opportunity for the contractors to:
The Walkthrough in Action
Led by Raul Mayta, our recent bid walkthrough for the West 80th Street project brought togetherADELPHI RESTORATION CORP , Xinos Construction Corp, Skyline Restoration Inc., along with Rock Bridge Property Management. Together, we explored the site, discussed the project’s unique requirements, and addressed questions to ensure everyone left with a clear understanding of what’s needed to make this project a success. Collaboration and communication are at the heart of this process, and this walkthrough was no exception.
What Happens Next?
Following the bid walkthrough, the contractors will prepare and submit their pricing proposals. These proposals not only include cost estimates but also detail how each contractor plans to execute the project. For our client, this step is critical in evaluating which team aligns best with the project’s goals, budget, and timeline.
The client’s final decision on a contractor will set the stage for the next phase of construction, where the vision begins to take physical form. It’s a transparent and competitive process designed to ensure the best outcomes for everyone involved.
Why Bid Walkthroughs Matter
Bid walkthroughs are more than a formality—they are the foundation of a successful construction project. Here’s why they’re so important:
Looking Ahead
As we gear up for an exciting spring construction season, we’re thrilled to see the West 80th Street project taking shape. With the groundwork laid and the bidding process underway, this transformation is just beginning. Stay tuned for updates as we move closer to breaking ground and bringing this restoration project to life!
At Mayta + Sebastian Architecture, we believe in the power of collaboration and meticulous planning to turn architectural visions into reality. Whether you’re a contractor, client, or design enthusiast, we invite you to follow along as we build for the future. 🏗️✨
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