It’s not just job interviews and first dates that call for making a good first impression. High-end residential buildings must exert the same favorable impact from the very first moment well-heeled prospective buyers stride into their grand lobbies.

In many New York City buildings, architects and designers stop at nothing to generate gasp-worthy first looks by means of top-shelf design and, increasingly, extraordinary works of art. The following examples clearly demonstrate just how much effort and skill often go into the creation of heart-stirring, drop-dead gorgeous lobbies.

The Wales, Carnegie Hill, New York City

Stepping into this hotel-to-condo conversion at 1295 Madison Avenue is like walking agog into a display gallery of a fine art museum.

Coffered ceilings, custom moldings and floors blending Zimbabwe Black granite and Bianco Estremoz and Gricio Nicol marble grace the lobby. The warm glow of a custom brass chandelier brightens the antique wall mirrors, and a striking wood-burning fireplace and seating offer an enduring focal point. Some have observed the fireplace and long corridor of marble evoke a pre-war feel.

Read more: link