Chelsea neighborhood emerging as media hub.

Increasingly known for its trendy restaurants, hip art galleries, and lively boutiques, the Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan is also emerging as a hub for media and related activities.

Situated between 14th and 30th Streets generally west of Sixth Avenue, Chelsea has seen a boom in media related companies. Chelsea Piers on 23rd and 12th has achieved significant growth, and recognition, for its Silver Screen Studios. With five studios, this center has been the home of such feature films as Boomerang, The Preacher's Wife, and Copland. It's also the home to such hit shows as Law & Order and Spin City.

The Chelsea Market at 75 Ninth Ave., between 15th and 16th streets has also seen an infusion of media companies. NYL, Oxygen, and the popular culinary station, the Food Network, have all found a niche in this emerging market. The Daily News has also moved into a building at the area's fringe.

In addition, Ill 8th Avenue, the third largest building in New York, has become a centerpiece of this new activity. This 2.8 million-SF building, which has gained prominence as a location for technology-related and telecommunications businesses, is also home to significant companies, including Deutsch Advertising, in industries related to media, communications and advertising.

"There's a sense of renewed energy along the streets with more destination and local retail, a new museum and the vigorous Chelsea Piers to serve a lively mix people working and living in Chelsea," said Andrew Nick, a principal of Taconic Investment Partners, owners of 111 Eighth Ave.