The developers, with the help of Randy Gerner of Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel Architects PC, came up with the $75 million, 64-unit family-size Opus condominium residences. Apartments range from 1,200 to 2,200 sf with two to five bedrooms. There are no more than four homes per floor with only two on the top five stories. Features include oak-strip flooring, high ceilings, gourmet kitchens and marble baths. Prices range from $900,000 to $3 million and opening is set for January 2005. Already nine contracts are out on the condos, which Hackett says is "reconfirmation that there is so little new product on the Upper West Side."

Hackett calls the building the "Uptown Flatiron Building" for its unique design elements. "It has a strong physical presence and lasting strength and will be a landmark one day," she predicts. Amenities will include a rooftop garden, a fitness center, community terrace and a thematically-designed family room with children's literature and a video library.

This is the first product of Clarett's joint venture with Prudential Real Estate Investors. In December 2002, Clarett Group formed Clarett Capital LLC in conjunction with PREI to develop luxury residences in the Metropolitan area. The JV has a five-year goal to produce two projects per year for a total value of $500 to $700 million. Next up is a development on the site of the Sutton Theater at 207 East 57th St. Hackett says negotiations are under way for a third property. "We've accomplished what we set out to accomplish," she adds.