Don’t just buy a building—buy the Skyline and the High Line.
The Opportunity Positioned in the epicenter of the Special West Chelsea District (WCD), 525 West 29th Street represents a premier development or conversion opportunity. This property is not merely a piece of real estate; it is a gateway to the iconic West Chelsea skyline, offering significant "unlockable" value through New York City’s most unique air rights transfer mechanisms.
The Assets
Address: 525 West 29th Street, New York, NY
Zoning: C6-3 (Commercial with R9 Residential Equivalent)
District: Special West Chelsea District – Chapter 8
Buildable Potential: Estimated 20,000+ Buildable Square Feet (via unused FAR and TDR)
High Line Transfer Corridor (HLTC): As a designated "Receiving Site," this property is eligible to increase its density by acquiring development rights from the High Line Transfer Corridor, allowing for a building bulk that far exceeds standard base allowances.
Development Highlights
Strategic Location: Situated steps from the High Line, Hudson Yards, and the world-renowned West Chelsea Gallery District.
Flexible Use: The C6-3/R9 designation supports luxury residential condos, a flagship commercial headquarters, or a sophisticated mixed-use gallery/residential hybrid.
Architectural Advantage: Benefit from the generous building envelopes defined in Chapter 8, designed to maximize light, air, and views in Manhattan’s most sought-after architectural corridor.
In a neighborhood where "view corridors" are currency, 525 West 29th Street offers the rare chance to build upward. Whether utilizing the West Chelsea Affordable Housing Fund bonus or executing a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), the path to a 20,000+ SF masterpiece is established.
Disclaimer: All buildable square footage estimates, zoning calculations, and air rights figures are provided for informational purposes only. Prospective buyers must conduct their own independent due diligence and consult with a licensed architect and/or land-use attorney to verify usable FAR, specific HLTC eligibility, and final development potential.
525 West 29th Street presents a rare opportunity to acquire a boutique commercial-use building in the heart of West Chelsea, one of Manhattan’s most dynamic and culturally significant neighborhoods. Ideally positioned near the West Side Highway and directly adjacent to the High Line, the property offers a compelling combination of current income, near-term flexibility, and long-term upside.
With a generous 30-foot frontage, 100-foot depth, and additional air rights, the building is well suited for a variety of uses, including continued commercial operation, redevelopment, or conversion to a bespoke private residence or creative headquarters.
The building’s scale and proportions are highly desirable and uncommon in this location, offering strong street presence and excellent design flexibility.
The existing tenancy provides diversified income anchored by culturally significant uses with strong brand equity, while allowing an incoming owner flexibility to reposition, re-tenant, or occupy the building over time. This curated tenant mix—hospitality, arts, and commercial—reflects the character of West Chelsea and appeals to institutional buyers, private principals, and international investors seeking both stability and long-term relevance.
While the property is currently configured for commercial use, buyers may explore potential conversion to residential or mixed-use, consistent with nearby properties in the area, where several formerly commercial buildings have successfully transitioned to residential or mixed-use configurations, subject to zoning, approvals, and customary due diligence.
525 West 29th Street offers exceptional versatility. Potential uses include, but are not limited to:
• Luxury private residence
• Creative or corporate headquarters
• Gallery or showroom space
• Loft-style residential conversion
• Mixed-use or live/work concept
The property’s dimensions and location make it a compelling canvas for visionary buyers seeking both utility and architectural expression.
West Chelsea is internationally recognized for its concentration of world-class galleries, cultural institutions, and destination dining. The area benefits from proximity to Hudson River Park, the West Side Highway, and unparalleled pedestrian connectivity via the High Line.
The neighborhood continues to attract strong demand from investors, creatives, and end users alike, reinforcing its long-term value and desirability.
525 West 29th Street represents a unique opportunity to acquire a distinctive building in one of New York City’s most vibrant corridors. With existing income, redevelopment flexibility, and an iconic location, the property offers both immediate value and enduring potential.
For qualified buyers seeking a rare West Chelsea asset with character, scale, and upside, 525 West 29th Street stands apart.