Change may be synonymous with New York, but the current construction boom in Harlem and its surroundings–a historic area that has long looked much the same–has been positively dizzying. Just so you're not completely disoriented, here's what to expect from three skyline-changing construction projects currently on the rise:
The Victoria Theater
223 W 125th St between Frederick Douglass Blvd and Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd
Stories: 26
The redevelopment of Harlem's Victoria Theater on 125th Street is set to create the tallest building in Central Harlem. Designed by Aufgang Architects, the T-shaped high rise will include 191 rentals (half of which will be "affordable"), a 210-room Renaissance Marriott Hotel, and lots of space for both retail and cultural groups.
The Malt House
461 W 126th St between Amsterdam and Convent Aves
Stories: 11
Although it's not the tallest project in the area, the Malt House is already jutting out of its immediate West Harlem horizon. Adding eight stories to an old brewery in what's being called the Manhattanville Factory District, this design by Gluck+ will provide 200,000 square feet of new retail and commercial space.
Vandewater
543 W 122nd St between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave
Stories: 32
Walk anywhere remotely close to the Vandewater rising on W 122nd Street, and you really can't miss it. That's because it will soon become the tallest building in Morningside Heights. The 183-unit luxury condo, designed by INC Architecture and Design, will offer amenities including a fitness center and a swimming pool.
