Christie’s Luxury Defined – Luxury Condominiums: 5 Elevated Escapes in the City

The concept of the condominium (and the bylaws to regulate it) emerged in the 12th century’s ancient, walled cities of Europe. In the New York City of 1881, the condominium evolved from owner-occupied “home clubs,” the affluent alternative to residential hotels of the day. 

The luxury condominium we know today is an invention of the mid-20th century. Downsizing empty nesters of the Greatest Generation retired to smaller homes in fun and far-off places. Puerto Rico and Hawaii, for instance, crafted the first U.S. condominium laws. 

In this edition of Luxury Defined, we offer the perks and privileges of contemporary condominium living in the big city, from up-to-the-minute style and architectural detail to the fixtures and finishes of deluxe urban habitation.