The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/733830
Since originally being cleared for development in the '70s, the location has changed hands over four times before ultimately being acquired by SJP. What SJP quickly recognized, was an opportunity for the community; something that was clearly missing. While Bergen County ranks as the fourth wealthiest county in New Jersey, there was a noticeable imbalance between ownership and rental households in the region. Coupled with a unique location at the foot of the bridge, it almost seemed foolish not to develop something that was clearly lacking from the neighborhood. The Modern's first tower, which completed construction last year, rapidly reached an impressive 95 percent occupancy. And although the building of the second tower recently commenced, potential buyers shouldn't expect leasing agreements to be penned until early 2018, or three months before the completion of construction, whichever occurs first. S o why the sudden attraction to Fort Lee? Goldman explained, "We've had great success in attracting people from Manhattan (roughly 25 percent of the tower's residents) whose rents have skyrocketed. The rent is halved with far more features, finishes, and amenities than are found in Manhattan." From the floor-to-ceiling windows to the 1.6-acre park found nestled between the towers, every component of The Modern was thoroughly thought through by all those involved. "People want something new, refreshing, modern—just different from what they've lived in before. One element that certainly has a great effect are the views. Whether you're on the 7th or 47th floor, the views are simply spectacular." After conducting multiple view studies and finding that they'd achieved perfect 360 degree views, it became abundantly clear that Elkus Manfredi's design was simply spot on. And while the majority of residences normally have a dinky business center and a small gym, The Modern truly goes above and beyond in the field of amenities; whether it be the golf simulator room, both a dog and human spa, volleyball and basketball courts, yoga rooms, a bicycle VUE ON DESIGN V U E N J . C O M 64