Riviera Apartments
1911-2011 Centenial Celebration

West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill

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1911: The Riviera, designed by architects Rouse & Goldstone, built in the Beaux-Arts style with 12 stories, 150 units opens at 790 Riverside Drive. The third largest apartment building in New York City features original, ornamental and architectural details, such as black wrought-iron and glass doors, a grand marble lobby lined with stained glass windows, a hand-painted coffered ceiling, and gilt-iron and marble double staircases.

The Riviera cost $1,700,000 on completion in 1911. Among other amenities, the Riviera offered “clothes dryers and outlets for small electric stoves or heating irons in every kitchen.” Advertisements also highlighted the altitude, views of the river, and fresh air. Because of the Riviera's design, with courtyards breaking the facade into five wings, the builders could declare “every room an outside room.”.

Sites & Attractions Sites & Attractions: Historic Community West Harlem / Hamilton Heights / Sugar Hill