Modernist, Garrett Gourlay, brings drama to Chelsea corner.

Recognized for signature buildings that use such unusual materials as copper-hued exterior wood paneling and a variety of avant-garde treatments, Australian modernist architect Garrett Gourlay has created a wholly new concept for 100 West 18th Street, a luxury condominium project distinguished by varied angles, chamfered corners, floor-to-ceiling windows and an unmistakable iridescent black brick exterior.

In addition to its dramatic shape and facade, Gourlay has incorporated 23 different layouts into 41 luxury homes, ranging from 800- to 3,000 square feet. Many have terraces and some feature terraces wood burning fireplaces. His firm is also responsible for the building's interior design, which includes such luxurious finishes as wide plank white oak floors, European oak kitchens strikingly set off by black granite countertops and milk-glass backsplashes.

The master bathrooms are designed with walls of varying depth limestone, creating a multi-dimensional finish. The continuity of the boldly accented tiling surrounds a Tea-for-Two soaking tub and two Duravit Vero wall-mounted sinks. Master bathrooms also feature oversized walk-in Lava Stone showers finished with Grohe fixtures. The walls of the secondary bathrooms are sheathed in Waterloo porcelain, coupled with a corduroy-finish Lava Stone. "Tiger Beige" marble floors complement the distinct stone work in the secondary bathrooms. Tertiary bathrooms feature walk-in showers surrounded by a tasseled-finish Lava Stone.

The kitchens at 100 West 18th Street feature Miele five-burner gas cook tops and wall-mounted convection ovens, Zephyr-Milano exhaust hoods and stainless steel Sub-Zero refrigerators.

"Garrett Gourlay is an artist, as well as an architect," says Scott L. Aaron, Director of Development for The Brauser Group.

"He has a special ability to layout a building so that each apartment has its own personality. His stone selections, the building's design and his unparalleled attention to detail at 100 West 18th Street have raised the bar in luxury residential architecture in Manhattan."

A sophisticated lobby combines a gallery-like wall of porcelain featuring works of art with organic elements throughout. Building amenities include 24-hour concierge service; a landscaped roof deck with outdoor shower and gas grill; club room with pantry opening to an exterior Zen garden; package room with a refrigerated section for food deliveries; and fitness center. In addition, every home comes with its own storage unit.

The building is highlighted by two spectacular penthouses, each with a wood-burning fireplace and glass-enclosed spiral staircase leading to private roof decks, 2,000- and 1,500 square feet, respectively.

The enormous roof decks are complimented with gas barbeque grills and outdoor showers. In addition, both penthouses offer breathtaking Empire State Building and cityscape views.

"It is rare to have an opportunity to build a new residential building in East Chelsea on a corner lot with great light and air." adds Mr. Aaron.

"We're surrounded by Chelsea's art scene, nightlife and recreational areas like Chelsea Piers, as well as the Flatiron District's Romanesque architecture, world-class shopping and restaurants. We've done a superior site justice with this extraordinary building."