As I'm sure anyone not living in a multi million dollar condo in Manhattan would say, there are both pros and cons to living in his/her building. The same is true of the 63 West complex on the UWS in which I have lived for 4 years.
The proximity to the 1 subway stop, Lincoln Center, and both Riverside and Central parks is wonderful. The neighborhood is very residential with almost no office buildings to speak of and it's proximity to midtown makes it ideal for many professionals.
It's lack of
...nearby bars may also be seen by some (although not I) as a pro in that it reduces encounters with late night drunks near one's apartment. This benefit is thoroughly offset by it's being next door to NYC housing projects which feature all manner of unsavory characters that linger on the sidewalk at all hours. They are frequently loud and cat-call (at times seriously harass) women that pass by, the smell of marijuana is ever present (although to some this may be a pro, no judgement), and the sidewalk is usually littered with broken bottles, garbage and dog leavings. Having said this, I have yet to have any direct confrontations or issues with these folks.
For the most part, the residents of 63 west can be considered a pro for the building. The occupants appear to be a mix of young professionals and students (many of whom attend Juilliard). There usually isn't too much noise and most residents are considerate enough to take any parties to the bar/club by 11pm. The only frequent issue I have with my fellow residents is that many need a lesson in laundry room etiquette (occupying machines long after cycle completes and sometimes removing others' clothes in favor of their own).
The building does have a 'concierge' who is primarily useful as a contact for maintenance issues and receiving packages. The building's elevator is in somewhat rough shape but work and while there is a basic gym, some of the equip is in need of repair. The courtyard is simple but well maintained.
The apartments are certainly on the small side. The buildings are quite old and it shows. The heating (included in rent) comes via radiators and steam-pipes and the windows are large enough for some pretty big a/c units. The kitchens (one of my biggest issues with the place) are almost non-existent and are just old small stoves and sinks in the corner of the room.
Considering the rent (~2k for a Jr 1br), the location, and the little amenities available, 63 West is compromise worth making.
