Step Back in Time at Hidden Pomander Walk

Pomander Walk, sometimes known as “The Walk” or “The Colony,” is a co-op building located between Broadway and West End on 94th and 95th Streets. For years I’ve made the mistake of hustling past this New York City landmark without paying attention to its charming and distinctive features. Recently, I’ve come to learn about its interesting history and origins. I even managed to capture a picture of the courtyard from inside the gates of this private community, which you can see above!

Surrounded by high-rise apartment buildings and close to Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods lies this three-story, gated apartment complex. It is a throwback in time. It contains 27 buildings divided into two rows, separated by an interior courtyard. The appearance of these buildings today is much as it was 100 years ago.

History

In 1920 an Irish immigrant, Thomas Healy, purchased a plot of land on 94th/95th Street on which Pomander Walk now stands. A successful hotelier and restaurateur, Healy wanted to build a grand hotel on the property. In 1921, lacking the funds to start the project, he designed a group of homes to represent an 18th-century Tudor-styled London Street. He planned to use these homes temporarily to generate some income while he raised the necessary funds to build the hotel. Healy died before the hotel project could be completed. Serendipitously, the complex remains, allowing for that step back for those fortunate enough to live there or visit. The street was named Pomander Walk after a popular play of the same name that opened in New York City in 1910. This charming spot was designated a New York City Landmark in 1982.

Pomander Walk Today

The complex retains its’ feel of exclusivity by keeping its’ gates closed at both entryways. Realtors report that turnover of the Pomander Walk properties does not happen often. Next time you take a stroll in the neighborhood, be sure to check out this hidden spot!