In Conversation: "High Design" Featuring Susan de França, President & CEO of Douglas Elliman Development Marketing

BY GAVIN MANLEY

When it comes to new development properties, an exciting resurgence is underway on the Upper East Side, according to Susan de França, President & Chief Executive Officer of Douglas Elliman Development Marketing. VICINITY sat down with this native New Yorker to find out how Douglas Elliman continues to enrich this most celebrated of neighborhood enclaves.

What does Douglas Elliman’s new development footprint look like in New York City?

We take great pride in the fact that we have a presence in nearly every neighborhood across Manhattan. This is a testament to the exceptional talent of the professionals who make up our team. From a personal perspective, it gives me great satisfaction as well that my role allows me to partner with some of the most visionary interior designers, architects, and developers working today.

Tell us about some of DEDM’s new developments on the Upper East Side.

It really is such an exciting time for new development on the Upper East Side at the moment. The neighborhood is experiencing a renaissance of sorts— not only in the sheer volume of new development projects, but also in terms of the architectural ingenuity on display. One development that perfectly captures this artistic vision is THE 74 near Third Avenue. Where many buildings on the Upper East Side trend toward quite a classic style, THE 74 on the other hand, has a decidedly downtown sensibility.

“Beyond the famous avenues we all know so well, there are charming, tree-lined side streets that rival anything you might see in London or Paris.”

Designed by Rafael de Cárdenas, the interiors at this property are so highly curated that it feels as though each one of its 42 residences is actually a custom home. The full-floor apartments on the upper levels have incredible views and the location is fantastic, so it really is a very special building.

And yet, many of DEDM’s recent developments on the Upper East Side are much more intimate in scale. Case in point— The Surrey, New York City’s first Corinthia Hotel, which opened its doors on 76th Street last year. With just 14 residences, this iconic property simply exudes European charm.

A key draw for many buyers is the addition of Casa Tua, an exclusive private club and restaurant. Residents at The Surrey also have access to a wonderful suite of private spaces and amenities, including a lounge, restaurant, and a gorgeous rooftop overlooking Billionaires’ Row.

One more worth mentioning is The Giorgio Armani Residences at 760 Madison, a building which in my view, epitomizes the ultimate expression of contextual architecture. Led by COOKFOX Architects, the design team has created a building that blends seamlessly with the surrounding properties. Giorgio Armani himself contributed to the look and feel of the interiors, so each one of the residences has that quiet sophistication synonymous with the Armani brand.

What is your personal connection to the Upper East Side and what do you love about the neighborhood?

New York has so many fabulous neighborhoods, and although I enjoyed living in the West Village for a time, the Upper East Side always pulls me back. Beyond the famous avenues we all know so well, there are charming tree-lined side streets that rival anything you might see in London or Paris. And the vibrant sense of community here is unmatched—from adorable bakeries and wellness pop-ups to abundant green spaces, plus an enticing mix of Manhattan’s finest restaurants. The Mark and the new Casa Tua are favorites of mine, but Antonucci Cafe— a cozy Italian on 81st—holds a special place in my heart. When you’re here, it’s like you’re with family. I think that’s what makes the Upper East Side so unique—it feels like a special little town, in a big, bustling city.