Metropolis filling up fast.

The Metropolis, a soaring contemporary rental residential tower developed by Rose Associates, Inc. and The Benenson Capital Company, is renting at a remarkable pace, with more than 125 leases signed since the rental office opened, announced Daniel Rose, chairman of Rose Associates, Inc.

The Metropolis is a distinctive 52 story residential tower at 150 East 44th Street between Lexington and Third Avenues, one half block from Grand Central Terminal. Rose Associates manages the building, which offers studio, one- and two-bedroom rental apartments now available for occupancy.

Residents of the building will have access to The Metropolis Club, a private, professionally staffed health club featuring a full array of state-of-the-art exercise equipment. The 3,000-SF Metropolis Club also offers recreational activities such as a golf practice net, billiards, and ping pong. At the crown of the 52-storey tower is a rooftop sundeck that offers dramatic views of Manhattan.

Schuman, Lichtenstein, Claman, Efron Architects designed the apartment layouts and building envelope, and the entry, lobby, and public spaces were designed by B Five Studio. The Metropolis displays the graceful lines of Art Deco architecture while incorporating contemporary design elements. The building is constructed over the site of the former rectory of the Church of St. Agnes using air rights from the rectory, church, and surrounding properties.

"We have been following this site for many years and moved quickly to acquire it when the church made it available," said Lawrence B. Benenson, partner of The Benenson Capital Company.

"The extraordinary attention to detail in all aspects of construction and design distinguishes The Metropolis within the Manhattan rental market," said Jack Levy, Senior Managing Director of Rose Associates. "The building offers custom amenities and finishes, from the lobby and common spaces to the individual residences."

A limited edition tapestry reproducing an original design by Bauhaus master Gunta Stolzl will be the centerpiece of The Metropolis' lobby, which balances polished wood and a selection of imported marble. The lobby is attended 24 hours a day and a concierge is available to assist residents with daily tasks. Dry-cleaning, housekeeping, and other services are provided by an in-house valet.

Each apartment features polished light oak flooring, generous closet space, and floor-to-ceiling energy efficient Thermopane windows that maximize views of the city. Residences are prewired with eight telephone lines and coaxial cable to provide high-speed Internet access and television services.

Kitchens feature elegant white frameless cabinetry with brushed stainless steel handles. Meteorite granite countertops, stainless steel sinks, and polished chrome Moen single-lever faucets combine to create an ideal workspace. High quality Maytag white-on-white appliances include a refrigerator with icemaker, microwave, gas range, and dishwasher.

Bathroom floors and countertops are distinguished by imported Carmella marble while tub surrounds and baseboards feature complementary Botticino Classico marble. Bathroom finishes include Kohler fixtures, polished chrome faucets, and Moen shower fittings with the showerhead positioned at a