JERSEY CITY, NJA new “boutique rental” building is opening in this city's Powerhouse Arts District, with a name and special features focused on helping to build its arts community. The 119-unit “Art House” at 148 First St. is set in a neighborhood where the concept of supporting the arts has long been entrenched, but execution has been herky-jerky.

The Shuster Group developers say their new 12-story building embraces the arts community that exists and expands support for it. The building itself is designed to “encourage social interaction,” and provides display space for the work of local artists throughout the building.

The Art House opens for occupancy Sept. 1, offering an array of tenant amenities, including a rooftop pool and sun deck with direct views of the Manhattan skyline.

The Art Project, a collaboration of the developer, the Jersey City Economic Development Corp. and the City, establishes a gallery in the building's leasing office where work can be purchased, with 70% of proceeds going to the artists and 30% set aside to help fund visual art classes for underprivileged youth through the EDC.

The leasing center and art gallery is a 3,800 square-foot space with industrial-inspired interior, located at 109 Christopher Columbus Drive.

“One of our core philosophies is designing and developing properties that precisely fit their locale,” said Eyal Shuster, owner of The Shuster Group. Also, being locally based, Shuster said, makes it important for his company to get it right: “We believe in taking an active role in the communities in which we develop, live and raise our families in. Jersey City is deeply rooted in the arts, and The Art Project will allow artists to showcase their extraordinary talents, and these classes will inspire a new generation of creative minds.”

Leah Almog Arazi, Shuster's marketing director, added that development will continue to stage events and promote a lifestyle that amounts to “an appealing alternative for those looking for something truly special.”

The building was designed by Fogarty Finger Architects and LWDMR & Associates with a contemporary lobby where a 24-hour doorman will be on duty, a lounge, fitness center, yoga room, kids' room, party room and a bike storage room.

Studios are available for monthly rates ranging from $2,045, one-bedrooms from $2,300 and two-bedroom-plus-office/three-bedroom residences from $4,995 a month. Penthouse are also available.

The units have 5” wide wood-plank floors, designer cabinets and fixtures, glass tile backsplashes and stainless steel appliances and washer/dryers.

Instant Insights /

Art House Rentals Open in Jersey City

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