Sparkle on 63rd“It takes your breath away, it’s pretty stunning.” These were the words an Astor Place resident used to describe the new landscaping around the office buildings of 701 and 751 E. 63rd Street. River birch, ginkgos, holly and white pine now add shade and verdancy to the street. Developer Andy Battmer and his business partners had the help of landscape architect Phil Hogan and landscaper Juan Mendez. “We wanted to soften the appearance of the buildings, especially the garage. We chose pine trees that grow tall and slender and trees that can take the abuse of the city,” said Andy.
Andy and his business partners have owned the buildings for about a year. “We saw that these buildings had a lot of potential because of the cross streets and with UMKC, Brookside, and the highway being so close,” stated Andy. The 751 E. 63rd St. building has undergone interior renovation and new tenants have been moving in. The variety of rental space options are attracting professionals, creative companies, small businesses, and not for profit entities. Thus far, about 60% of the 751 building is rented even though the top floor has yet to be renovated. Plans for the 701 E. 63rd St. will take place later.
Congratulations on being the May Sparkle Award recipient and thanks to Andy Battmer and partners for making their patch of 63rd Street “stunning.”