Unique opportunity to create the 2 bedroom, 1 bath home of your dreams. This estate condition apartment, available for the first time in over 70 years, boasts direct park and river views. Pictured views are taken from the apartment. Several images have been virtually renovated to illustrate possibilities.Originally built as an apartment hotel in 1914 known as the Cliff Dwelling, 243 Riverside Drive was designed by architect Herman Lee Meader. The building sits on an irregular lot with the majority of apartments facing Riverside Park. Meader was intensely interested in Mayan and Aztec architecture. This influence is seen in the artwork throughout the terra cotta frieze of the building's facade where mountain lions, buffalo, double-headed snakes, and other imagery is incorporated. The lobby features wonderful geometric motifs that almost foreshadow the Art Deco style of the 1920s.The building offers two elevators, a live-in super, full-time porter, central laundry and entrances on Riverside Drive and 96th Street. Perfectly located along Riverside Drive and a couple of blocks away from the 1, 2 and 3 train station, M5 and M96 buses, Whole Foods, Westside Market, Trader Joe's, Citi Bike, Equinox, SoulCycle, NY Sports Club, numerous restaurants, shops and Columbia University. Cats and one dog are allowed, with board approval.