Condo rocks towering views VIEW
For Bostonians of a certain generation, the tower at Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue will always be the Tower Records building.
Reworked by design-great Frank Gehry decades ago, the spot was arguably the Hub’s hottest for the latter part of the 20th century.
But today, with T.J. Maxx there and the throngs of smoking kids with spiky hair and black leather gone, the corner has long lost its cool.
Except, of course, if you’re wealthy enough to own a penthouse condo at the address. For proof, just ride the big elevator up to unit 807 on the eighth floor of 360 Newbury St. — now on the market for just under $2 million. “This is the million-dollar view,” said Tony Chang, a sales agent with Giant Realty LLC, when showing the place this week.
He pointed out to the two-story wall of windows that offer views of the Prudential and Clarendon towers, over the rowhouses of the Back Bay, the Charles River, and beyond to the golden dome of the State House.
“Waking up every morning and going to bed at night with views like this, it’s just beautiful,” said Chang, while looking out from the upstairs loft-style master bedroom. Just below, in the living room with an 18-foot ceiling, is the same awesome view.
The modern condo is slick and white, and, of course, has lots of glass. While its open style makes it feel spacious, it doesn’t quite live up to its 2,062 square feet, in terms of efficiency.
But that’s OK, because this condo isn’t the kind you’d buy for practicality. It’s the kind you’d buy for its location and style. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is completely livable, however, with a big office, large rooms, and a master bedroom that has a gorgeous, bright bathroom with a marble floor, shower and sinktop and a big walkin closet with natural wood built-in shelves and drawers.
Downstairs, in the living area, the only thing that can take your eyes off the views of the skyline outside is the slick kitchen with white and frosted glass European cabinetry, granite countertops and island and marble backsplash.
Although the building has a 24-hour concierge and other perks, it lacks some of the frills of other luxury downtown condos, like a gym, Chang said. But its location makes up for that. Step outside and you’re at the start of Newbury Street, just blocks from the Commonwealth Avenue Mall and a good walk from the Common or Boston Symphony Hall.
“You tell people (you’re at) Newbury Street and Mass Ave.,” said Chang, “and everybody knows where you are.”
The sale of the property is being handled by Sanford Lui (617-818-4002).