Occupying a full-block frontage site in Astoria, Queens along the East River waterfront, 30-55 Vernon Boulevard's design embraces the neighborhood's craft-making heritage. The building is composed of two masonry clad volumes; a robust 9 story gridded frame with wide bronze windows to take in sweeping views of the water and Manhattan skyline, and a long 3-4 story wing with elegant townhouse-scaled vertical windows. The strong rhythm of textured brick piers roots the building into the arcing esplanade of Vernon Boulevard, while corner balconies, stepping terraces, and a playful roofscape of penthouses open the apartments to nature and sky. A two-story lobby, retail, parking, and a community facility space line the base of the building, lifting amenity spaces to the second floor, which front a central courtyard.
The project is part of a larger multi-building effort to create affordable housing in the neighborhood. Many of the building's 121 units have access to their own outdoor terraces and balconies. Sustainability and wellness are also central to 30-55 Vernon Boulevard's design. Bird-friendly glass and lighting mitigate collision risk, and the building's high-performance envelope meets Zone Green standards. An electric heating and cooling system maximizes energy efficiency, and the design prioritizes flood resilience.