Building: 110-21 73 Road

In the early 20th century, the population of Queens exploded, surpassing one million by 1930. To accommodate and further fuel this growth, the Independent Subway System built a new line deep into the borough – reaching Jackson Heights in 1933, and Kew Gardens at the end of 1936. Months later, on a small quiet road around the corner from the brand-new 75th Avenue station, the Austin Building Corporation introduced the Mayfair House in Forest Hills.

A grand and spacious prewar structure, the Mayfair was touted by its sponsor as “a most beautiful house, with rooms planned to suit the most exacting and discriminating person.” It featured 9-foot ceilings, and oversized bedrooms (14’ X 20’) in each of its 71 apartments; its largest units spanned more than 1600 square feet. Incorporated as a co-operative in 1983, and since then primarily owner-occupied, the co-op is in strong financial shape and the building is exceptionally well maintained.

The building has long had a diverse and friendly vibe, and in recent years has increasingly attracted young families. Residents of the Mayfair enjoy an easy commute into the city, paired with the attractions of this quaint and peaceful community. They walk 2 minutes to the express subway, which carries them into Manhattan in 20 minutes. Or, staying local, they walk around the other corner to the shops of Austin Street, and just 3 minutes into the lush and historic Forest Hills Gardens.