The appeal of luxury, resort-style living is driving a new generation of multifamily rental development in New Jersey’s most desirable transit-served towns. In Union County, Garden Communities’ The Metropolitan in Springfield is setting the bar for this modern, in-town residential experience.
The Metropolitan features spacious contemporary residences sized up to 3,187 square feet, with both a mid-rise apartment building and multi-level townhomes inspired by classic Manhattan brownstones. And, dating back to the former Saks Fifth Avenue store site, the mixed-use development also incorporates approximately 5,000 square feet of retail space fronting on upper Millburn Avenue.
“The Metropolitan is establishing a new best-and-highest use for this legendary address and serving as a catalyst to restore vibrancy to its neighborhood,” says Garden Communities’ managing director Scott Loventhal. “The community’s impressive amenities, ultra-convenient location just moments from the Short Hills Train Station, and diverse product mix are establishing a one-of-a-kind lifestyle to cater to the growing demand for maintenance-free living. It is designed to appeal to every demographic of renter.”
The aesthetic of The Metropolitan is beautiful, inside and out. Its sleek, modern design includes buildings clad in mixed materials like cast stone, brick and fiber cement. “We incorporated interesting and different elements along the perimeter of the site and within the building exteriors to create a look and feel that complements the downtown,” Scott notes. “High-end finishes and spacious living spaces define our two- and three-bedroom townhomes – each with a two-car private garage – as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments. Many of the residences also have a private balcony.”
When it comes to outdoor space, The Metropolitan does not disappoint. There’s a half-acre pocket park, plus an interior courtyard, seating areas and firepits; a heated pool with sundeck; and an outdoor kitchen, barbecue grills and dining areas where residents will be able to gather with their families and friends.
Residents at The Metropolitan will also have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, community room, coworking spaces, lobby coffee bar, daytime concierge services and more. Conveniences abound, from EV chargers to package lockers and resident storage. An app will facilitate access to amenities and services, and communication with the leasing and management team.
The Metropolitan sits in the heart of the Upper Milburn Avenue Business District, a neighborhood featuring an array of amazing restaurants and boutiques, while also being close to The Mall at Short Hills, the Paper Mill Playhouse, and parks and recreational facilities including the prestigious Baltusrol Golf Club.
“Our location at the nexus of Millburn-Short Hills and Springfield – just 0.7 miles from the Short Hills Train Station – is a dream for anyone looking for an upscale suburban rental lifestyle and an easy Manhattan commute,” Scott says. “And for those who rely on vehicular transportation, we're minutes from Route 78, Route 24, the Garden State Parkway, Route 287 and Route 280.”
As one of the region’s most active developers in its high-end niche, Garden Communities has built properties across the nation, but it has long maintained its local roots in Essex and Union Counties – its corporate headquarters has been located on Morris Turnpike in Short Hills since 1991. The company is recognized for impeccable building practices, its responsive, hands-on approach to property operations, and its focus on meeting the needs and desires of modern renters.
The Metropolitan’s leasing office is now open by appointment, with active leasing underway for the community’s 47 spacious and light-filled two- and three- bedroom townhomes. Rental rates for the townhomes start at $6,945 per month, with one- and two-year leases offered in this pet-friendly community. Occupancy of the first townhomes is anticipated for late fall. Leasing for The Metropolitan’s 223 one- and two-bedroom apartment residences is expected to begin in early 2024, with anticipated spring move-ins.
Townhome floor plans, introductory rental rates and a comprehensive list of The Metropolitan’s incredible amenities can be found on the property’s website.
“The community’s impressive amenities, ultra-convenient location just moments from the Short Hills Train Station, and diverse product mix are establishing a one-of-a-kind lifestyle to cater to the growing demand for maintenance-free living. It is designed to appeal to every demographic of renter.”