7 Apartment Buildings That Redefines Urban Living

From coast to coast, spanning Florida to New York, a new wave of apartment buildings is reshaping the landscape of urban living. Departing from the mundane, these structures blend luxury with affordability, embracing unique character, eco-conscious design, and an abundance of amenities.

Asher, Tampa, Florida - Designed by Morris Adjmi Architects

Standout Feature: This 22-story LEED Gold-certified marvel introduces 490 rental and furnished extended-stay units in a factory-style tower, paying homage to Tampa's industrial history. Despite catering to price-conscious tenants, the details are far from budget, featuring American oak, terrazzo, brass, and Venetian plaster. Artwork by Windy Chien, William LaChance, and Thomas Trum adorns the spaces, and an amenity deck boasts a 74-foot pool.

The Astor, New York - Designed by Pembrooke & Ives and Ash Staging

Standout Feature: Nestled in the Upper West Side, this property, dating back to 1901, exudes timeless elegance. To bring it into the 21st century, Pembrooke & Ives transformed 25 residences into luxe condominiums, blending contemporary kitchens, oversize main bathrooms, and marble fireplace mantels. Furniture and artwork, curated by Ash Staging, elevate the living experience.

Launch, Alameda, California - Designed by Vida Design

Standout Feature: Launch stands out with 13,000 square feet of amenities and public spaces on an island that once housed a naval air station. Inspired by maritime architecture, the streamlined design features a color palette evoking the sea. Custom nautical-hued sofas, leather Blu Dot loveseats, and a noir mail room add to the uniqueness.

The Suffolk, New York - Designed by JG Neukomm Architecture

Standout Feature: Reflecting the diversity of the Lower East Side, Suffolk's common areas and unit finishes are a tapestry of materials and moods. Inspired by historic Guastavino vaults, the lobby features artisanal-plastered walls and terrazzo floors. The amenity lounge exudes a continental vibe, while the coworking carrels pay homage to punk aesthetics.

South E8, Raleigh, North Carolina - Designed by Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects

Standout Feature: Addressing Raleigh's growth, this three-story building adds drama and environmental consciousness—the angular facade shifts from white-painted brick to black standing-seam steel paneling. Interiors boast passive design strategies, emphasizing cross ventilation, energy efficiency, ample daylighting, and outdoor access.

Wellsmith Apartments, Richmond, Virginia - Designed by Hickok Cole

Standout Feature: Focused on tenant well-being, Wellsmith Apartments boasts a graphic white-brick and black-aluminum exterior. Inside, a botanical mural by local painter Naomi McCavitt enhances the living experience. Elevated finishes, airy communal spaces, and connections to nature contribute to an urban oasis.

Allan & Geraldine Rosenberg Residences, Freeport, Long Island - Designed by Studio Libeskind

Standout Feature: Studio Libeskind's first affordable housing project for seniors, this residence features accessible ceramic-tiled bathrooms and dynamic common areas. A rooftop walking track and internal courtyard, adorned with bright-colored doorways, create a vibrant atmosphere in this StoTherm ci Mineral facade masterpiece.

Embark on a visual journey through these seven character-filled apartment buildings that redefine urban living. From historic transformations to eco-conscious designs, each structure is a testament to architectural innovation, providing residents with unparalleled living experiences.