View 34: Luxury Living with Iconic East River Views in Manhattan’s Murray Hill

View 34, formerly known as Rivergate, is a prominent 35-story residential skyscraper located at 401 East 34th Street. Constructed between 1983 and 1985 on the site of a former Coca-Cola bottling plant, this building marked a significant shift in the area’s development from industrial to residential use during the 1980s.

Architecture and Design

Designed by architects Samuel Braverman and Costas Kondylis of Philip Birnbaum & Associates, View 34 features a distinctive U-shaped structure with a narrow courtyard facing the East River. The building’s eastern façade incorporates three deep setbacks, creating roof terraces that offer panoramic views of the river. The grand three-story glass atrium lobby houses an indoor garden and waterfalls, complemented by a notable 32-by-8-foot painting by artist Frank Stella titled Damascus Gate Variation I.

Residential Features

View 34 offers a range of upscale apartment layouts, including studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. Many apartments are equipped with granite kitchen countertops and upgraded marble bathrooms, reflecting the building’s commitment to luxury living. Select units provide breathtaking views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline.

Amenities

Residents of View 34 enjoy an array of amenities designed to enhance urban living:

• Expansive Rooftop: The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the East River and Manhattan, featuring lounge areas ideal for relaxation and social gatherings.
• Health Club: A fully equipped fitness center caters to various exercise routines.
• Public Plaza: The building includes a 23,700-square-foot public plaza, originally featuring an ice skating rink, now transformed into a landscaped area with a lawn, seating, and a children’s playground.

Historical Significance

The development of View 34 played a pivotal role in transforming the eastern part of Murray Hill from an industrial zone to a vibrant residential community. Its construction set a precedent for subsequent high-density residential projects in the area, contributing to the neighborhood’s revitalization.