BAYONNE, NJ–SilkLofts, a unique rental conversion with an unusual array of lifestyle amenities, is moving into Bayonne, offering competition to similar high-end properties in Jersey City and Hoboken.

So far, 47 rental homes have been leased at the Bayonne landmark residential property since it debuted earlier this summer, representing nearly 100% of the homes available in the first two buildings. The strong activity has led to the release of additional homes, with occupancy ranging from immediate to October 15^th.

SilkLofts features 85 rental homes in all, in three interconnected, five-story buildings at the intersection of 18^th Street and Avenue E, close to the 22^nd Street Light Rail station and minutes from New York City, Jersey City, Hoboken and other Gold Coast locations. A fourth building overlooking a landscaped interior courtyard will feature a limited offering of artist lofts.

The homes combine dramatic architectural elements more than 100 years old with modern finishes complemented by unique recreational and social amenities, outstanding views and a commuter-friendly location, says SilkLofts, which is transforming the century-old former Maidenform factory into the new signature residential property.

“We're exceeding our goals,” says Doug Stern, president of SilkLofts. “We believed all along that by delivering a better product and lifestyle, we would attract residents to Bayonne. That's exactly what's happening.”

Homes at SilkLofts offer a variety of floor plans ranging from 568 to more than 1,300 square feet at monthly rental rates starting at $1,800. The homes combine 19^th-century restored elements such as exposed heavy timber columns and brick with modern finishes and appointments that innovatively meld it into the 21^st century.

“The Maidenform factory has been an iconic building in Bayonne for over 100 years,” says Stern. “We've embraced the historic charm of the building and used it as a foundation for a new urban residential destination that rivals similarly-inspired residences in areas like Brooklyn, but at a price point that offers considerable consumer value.”

The loft residences include 12-to-20-foot ceiling heights, mahogany front doors, exposed brick and wood beams, bamboo and oak gunstock wood floors, gourmet kitchens with Quartz countertops and chef islands, and washer and dryers. The lofts include natural light through newly-installed, oversized energy efficient argon-filled factory windows.

The developer has incorporated creative amenities. An outdoor, landscaped pocket park features an herb garden, barbeque, fire pit and a pizza oven. There's also an on-site fitness center, secured on-site parking and a welcoming lobby with historic photos of the original Maidenform factory.

“The definition of luxury is changing, particularly in urban areas,” says Stern. “We've shifted away from cold lobbies and theater rooms to more socially-interactive spaces and uses where residents can connect with each other. That was my goal for the pocket park, fire pit and pizza oven. I wanted to create a comfortable, casual setting where neighbors would gather and socialize. We're delighted that our residents are already taking full advantage of it.”

SilkLofts has been designed to receive LEED Silver Certification (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) and is being built in accordance with U.S. Green Building Council guidelines for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. Among the green features are the use of bamboo flooring, energy efficient appliances and recycled materials.

Instant Insights /

Silklofts Shows Strong Leasing Activity At Historic Bayonne Rental Conversion

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