NoVia: Living/Working/Dining North of the Viaduct

Not so long ago you simply told people you “lived in Hoboken,” that was specific enough. Nowadays there are subsections—downtown, midtown, uptown, waterfront, back of town, etc. Meanwhile it’s getting even more localized, with specific buildings becoming their own quasi-internalized communities.

A few weeks back, our good friends at the Hudson Reporter ran a terrific, comprehensive article on the community taking shape in a fairly new section of town, north of the viaduct. The only problem was the moniker—“NoVHo.” It just doesn’t roll off the tongue…

Well, leave it to a developer to find a solution: “NoVia,” for “NOrth of the VIAduct.”

Novia Flats

Located at 1414 Grand Street, Novia Flats is a mixed-use apartment building featuring retail space—including 6,400 square feet available for potential restaurant/hospitality space, with an optional additional 2,800 square feet of mezzanine space.

“It’s the kind of space you’d see in SoHo, the Meatpacking District or Williamsburg,” says Tony Soares, of Boutique Realty. Featuring 22-foot ceilings with a glass façade and an existing “Broad C” liquor license attached to the project, the location represents the largest new bar restaurant opportunity in Hoboken. “People with a vision will figure out how to make this space really work.”

Novia Flats

The building is being developed by Hany Ahmed and Mark Villamar, who got approval back in 2005—when people thought it was crazy to build “way up there.” Designed by renowned Hoboken architectural firm Minervini Vandermark, Novia Flats will be aiming for LEED Gold Certification, representing a commitment to environmentally friendly development. To that end, the building features a geothermal heating and cooling system, which will ensure minimal utility costs for commercial and residential tenants alike.

“What’s interesting about this part of town is that the building can be more experimental,” says Soares. “As opposed to the rest of Hoboken, up here there is less of a need to conform, allowing unique and innovative architecture inspired by developers, and less by the surrounding neighborhood.”

Live/Work/Play
Of course the neighborhood itself is certainly up and coming, with hotspots like Carpe Diem and Pilsener Haus already drawing their own significant foot traffic. Meanwhile the nearby cinema and the growing Mile Square Theatre facility create a built-in atmosphere of positive development. Novia Flats and its surrounding area represent less of a dorm-style way of life, and more of a community on the rise.

Real Hot Yoga Hoboken

Within the building itself, one of the tenants already signed on to take advantage of the spectacular retail space on the second floor is Real Hot Yoga. “We’re really excited about the location,” says Tamara Tosun. “The studio will have plenty of open space, and the tremendous Manhattan views will provide an amazing experience for all our clientele.”

While multiple retail opportunities exist within the building, the residential space is equally impressive. Geared toward modular living, features such as islands and counterspace can be easily configured to individual tastes. In addition, private roof deck space will also be available for lease—and the views can’t be beat.

“In terms of the residential units, these are also ideas that are being implemented in Manhattan and Brooklyn,” says Soares. “Novia Flats will be perfect for single professionals, families, or even empty-nesters looking to return to a vibrant urban environment.”

The Viaduct at Night

Life in NoVia, north of the viaduct, is certainly shaping up to be vibrant. The recent completion of the viaduct itself has essentially allowed development to once again flow through the area. The addition of lights along pedestrian walkways under the viaduct beckons potential visitors, businesses and residents to come explore the area and see what it has to offer.

“This whole part of town shouldn’t go dark at night,” says Soares. “It won’t be raucous, but it won’t be Sleepy Hollow. You’ll see a lot of people here—all of whom have a common appreciation for the area’s unique design.”