Press

Nestled along the East River shoreline, One Williamsburg Wharf has cemented its status as a beacon of luxury with the unveiling of New York City’s first private outdoor ice skating rink.

This 22-storey condominium tower, part of the sprawling Williamsburg Wharf development, now offers residents an unparalleled seasonal amenity: a sky-high rink boasting panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. As winter descends, the space transforms into a glittering icescape, while summer months see it revert to a serene pool, epitomising year-round sophistication.

The rink’s introduction marks a bold step in urban residential innovation, blending exclusivity with cutting-edge design. Developed in partnership with Glice®—a global leader in synthetic ice technology—the project reimagines outdoor leisure, offering a seamless transition between seasons without compromising aesthetics or functionality.

For Brooklyn, it represents not just a local first but a statement of modernity, elevating waterfront living to new heights.

A Sky-High Winter Wonderland in Brooklyn

Perched above the Williamsburg waterfront, the rink offers an escape from the city’s hustle, granting residents uninterrupted vistas of the East River and Manhattan’s iconic silhouette. Unlike public rinks such as Rockefeller Center or Wollman Rink, this space prioritises privacy, accessible only to residents and their guests.

Its elevated position ensures a serene experience, free from crowds, while the synthetic ice surface—crafted by Glice®—guarantees a smooth glide akin to natural ice.

By day, sunlight dances across the rink’s surface; by night, it becomes a luminous spectacle beneath the skyline’s glow. The transition from pool to rink is a feat of engineering: the summer basin is drained, a substructure installed, and interlocking synthetic panels laid seamlessly.

Deck pavers mirror the surrounding terrace, maintaining the development’s sleek aesthetic. This duality ensures the space remains a focal point of leisure, regardless of the season.

Innovative Design Meets Sustainable Technology

Glice®’s synthetic ice technology lies at the heart of this transformative amenity. Renowned for its use by NHL players, Red Bull, and luxury brands like Fairmont Hotels, the material replicates the glide of traditional ice without requiring energy-intensive refrigeration.

This eco-conscious approach aligns with modern demands for sustainability, reducing both water consumption and carbon emissions. For urban developments, such innovations are pivotal in balancing luxury with environmental responsibility.

The installation process underscores precision. Once the pool is emptied, a modular substructure is anchored within the basin, ensuring stability. Synthetic panels, engineered to withstand temperature fluctuations, are then fitted into place. The result is a surface that performs identically to natural ice, yet remains adaptable to New York’s unpredictable climate. For residents, this means year-round access to a premium leisure facility, rain or shine.

Redefining Luxury Living in Williamsburg

One Williamsburg Wharf is more than a residence—it is a curated lifestyle. The tower’s 89 design-forward homes, crafted by Brandon Haw Architecture, blend industrial chic with waterfront tranquillity. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame river views, while interiors by Ward + Gray exude understated elegance.

The firm, founded by former Soho House designers, imbues spaces with a cosmopolitan flair, marrying raw textures with bespoke finishes.

Beyond the rink, amenities cater to every facet of modern life. An indoor-outdoor fitness centre merges gym sessions with fresh air, while a yoga studio offers solace above the city’s buzz. A state-of-the-art basketball court, pet spa, and residents-only Café Kent further elevate daily living.

Each space is designed to foster community, whether through morning coffees at the café or evening gatherings by the waterfront gardens.

The Vision Behind Williamsburg Wharf

The ice rink is a cornerstone of the 3.75-acre Williamsburg Wharf masterplan, a visionary project by the Naftali Group. Upon completion, the development will redefine Brooklyn’s waterfront, blending residential, retail, and green spaces into a cohesive urban ecosystem. One Williamsburg Wharf, the first condominium in this plan, sets a precedent for future phases, prioritising innovation and resident experience.

Architect Brandon Haw describes the project as “a dialogue between urban grit and natural serenity.” The tower’s façade, with its rhythmic balconies and glass expanses, mirrors the river’s ebb and flow. Meanwhile, landscaped terraces by Dutch firm West 8 soften the industrial edge, weaving native flora into the waterfront’s fabric. This harmony of elements positions Williamsburg Wharf as a model for 21st-century urban planning.

A New Benchmark for Urban Amenities

New York’s luxury market thrives on exclusivity, yet One Williamsburg Wharf pushes boundaries by offering amenities traditionally reserved for resorts. The ice rink, in particular, challenges norms, providing a private alternative to the city’s crowded seasonal attractions. For buyers, this unique offering enhances appeal, marrying the convenience of urban living with the perks of a holiday retreat.

Residents also gain access to a concierge service akin to five-star hotels, streamlining everything from grocery deliveries to event bookings. Such services, paired with the development’s architectural pedigree, position the tower as a sanctuary for discerning individuals. As SERHANT.’s sales team notes, “It’s not just a home—it’s a lifestyle engineered for those who expect more.”

Exclusive Partnerships and Premier Services

Marketing and sales for One Williamsburg Wharf are helmed by SERHANT., New York’s leading brokerage. Known for its avant-garde approach, the firm leverages immersive technology—such as 3D virtual tours—to showcase the development’s features. With occupancy slated for late 2024, interest has surged among both local and international buyers, drawn by the promise of a waterfront haven minutes from Manhattan.

Pricing, though undisclosed, reflects the development’s premium positioning. Units range from studios to four-bedroom penthouses, each featuring private outdoor space. For investors, the combination of cutting-edge design, unparalleled amenities, and a prime location signals strong long-term value. As Brooklyn’s skyline evolves, One Williamsburg Wharf stands poised to become its crown jewel.