Impala opens in the East 70's.

Manhattan's first "themed" luxury condominium development has opened on Manhattan's Upper East Side.

Built by the development partnership of Trevor Davis, of Davis and Partners, and Aby Rosen and Michael Fuchs, of RER Holding LLC, The Impala -- the first Manhattan high-rise designed by noted architect Michael Graves -- consists of a 31-story tower on First Ave. and two 7-story buildings around the corners on 75th and 76th Streets.

The 194-unit condominium development boasts an extraordinary interior landscaped garden that features 14 life-size sculptures of Impalas created by world-renowned South African animal sculptor Danie De Jager. Surrounding the animal sculptures are running streams, fountains, and lush landscaping. This theme continues inside the buildings, which features wildlife oil paintings by artist Kobus Moller.

"We fell in love with the Impala concept," noted Mr. Davis, "and before we knew it, we created Manhattan's first themed apartment development without intentionally planning it that way."

The Impala's 31-story tower will contain 141 studios, and one, two, and three bedroom condominium apartments ranging in size from 482 SF to 1,865 SF. Many of the apartments will be easily convertible to four and five-bedroom residences.

According to Adrienne Albert, president of the Marketing Directors, exclusive sales agent for The Impala, prices will start at $400,000 for studios, $500,000 for one-bedrooms, $725,000 for 2-bedrooms, and $2.150 million for three-bedroom residences.

Distinguished by a colorful red brick and bluestone exterior facade, featuring large square windows and pre-case panels capped by cornices, The Impala will also boast an array of amenities including a health club, a business center with a private meeting room equipped with video conferencing, the exclusive Accompli 24-hour concierge service, a private cinema room, a children's playhouse, an indoor garage with valet parking, and even a personal wine cellar facility. Apartments will be distinguished by 12-foot high ceilings, thermal paned casement windows; granite kitchens, marble baths, top-of-the-line appliances, individually controlled heating and air-conditioning; handsome lighting fixtures, and fine cabinetry.

Michael Graves, who served as design architect for The Impala, is noted for his museums and libraries. H. Thomas O'Hara acted as architect of record for the project.