History

The construction of 308 East 79th Street started in 1928 and by the 1929 summer and fall rental season was one of the most sought after addresses. Much of the demand stemmed from the building's elegant exterior and well-planned interior, which was the work of New York architect of Jacob M. Felson, who immigrated from Russia at the age of two in 1888. Felson studied at Cooper Union and began his career in 1910, when he first became known for his designs for movie theaters in New York City. Felson soon began to design apartment houses, particularly along wide streets and avenues. These buildings include 975 Park Avenue at 83rd Street, 230 Central Park South, the Hermitage on West 72nd Street, 515 West End Avenue at 85th Street, 350 Central Park West, which runs a full block from 94th and 95th Streets. 308 fits comfortably within this group of buildings and is a classic example of Felson's work.

This extremely large building is clad in limestone and brown brick, with thirteen windows across its facade and rises above the wide and sunny cross town thoroughfare sixteen stories plus the penthouse level. Carved limestone shells and balconies appoint the exterior of this fine building. When entering the  building one passes by the original cast bronze lanterns and black lacquered doors into the marble clad deco-detailed ante-room prior to entering a large glamorous palatial lobby with lead windows, marble walls and terrazzo floors. Original wood paneled elevator cars transport residents to their floor.

This Class A building is full service, with a 24 hour doorman and large staff all of which are overseen by a live-in superintendent. The building is a  cooperative with 189 units, many floor plans, a laundry room, bike room, conference room and storage rooms. Pied-a-terres and pets are welcome.