New renderings unveiled for upcoming 31-story residential building in Highbridge

renderings
1387 University Ave. in Highbridge.
Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

Newly released renderings offer a detailed look at a 31-story residential building that will be going up at 1387 University Ave. in the Highbridge section of the Bronx.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

The building is expected to span 333,508 square feet, with 422 total residential units. The development will feature a mix of housing options, including 125 affordable units, 190 supportive housing units, 106 transitional units for families, and a residence for the building’s superintendent. In total, 60% of the 422 units will be designated for formerly homeless families and individuals.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

Beyond the residential units, the development will feature 5,300 square feet of common spaces designed to promote health and wellness. Residents will have access to amenities such as on-site laundry facilities, 24/7 security, and a rooftop outdoor space. The building will be fully electric, with developers aiming for Passive House certification.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

Based on the new renderings, the facade of the tower will be made of gray brick that frames a staggered grid of 2-story floor-to-ceiling windows on the podium, as well as broad eastern and western elevations. The slender northern and southern faces will be covered in glass curtain walls that will be partially shrouded by a screen of metal louvers. Some setbacks on the lower levels will be topped with landscaped terraces. A flat parapet capped with a raised canopy will also be featured.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.
Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

The open spaces surrounding the tower will include expansive greenspace and meandering walkways, benches and fountains. These areas also aim to provide a welcoming atmosphere, with natural light and panoramic views.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC designed this building, while Samaritan Daytop Village is developing it. The project, which broke ground on Dec. 5, 2024, has received $335.4 million in financing assistance from City, State and private organizations. Construction is expected to be completed in June 2027. The developers hope for the building to then reach full occupancy by the middle of 2028.

Rendering courtesy of Magnusson Architecture and Planning PC.

A Carmelite monastery previously occupied 1387 University Ave. In 1982, it was converted into a men’s residential treatment center before the residential program was relocated in the beginning of 2024. Portions of the building’s original front portico, as well as other design elements, like select stone, wood and metal components, have been preserved by the developer. There are plans to integrate these features and materials into the landscaping and interiors of the new building.