The old-fashioned office building is getting a brand new look

Developers are finding that old bricks make appealing new haunts for trendy tenants so long as stunning expanses of glass are involved.

But to get to yes and a signed lease along with the sprawling glass additions modern amenities, roof decks, technology and infrastructure all have to be updated.

Here are a few projects that are remaking the city by including new twists.

Morton Silver and his son, Thomas, of Orda Management, the long-time owners of 223 and 225 Park Ave. South, are planning a complete overhaul of the properties at the end of the year.

At that time, their current tenant, the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey will move its offices back to 4 World Trade Center, and the massive face-lift and capital investment program will begin.

The south and taller American Woolen Building was designed by Robert Henderson Robertson and built in 1909 for the woolen company. Its double height arched entry is topped by its logo: a large rams head with curling horns. Built at the same time, 233 is distinguished by the large brass ring over its doorway.

A roof deck and pavilion will land on 225 Park Ave. South.Photo: Neoscape Inc

The buildings were so attractive, they were shortlisted by Sony and LOreal, each of which eventually opted to move elsewhere. But at just 6 percent, Midtown South has the lowest vacancy rates in the city. Since the area is the It girl for tech, advertising, media and information tenants (TAMI), rents are also rising while space is at a premium.

Now, a Newmark Grubb Knight Frank team led by Brian Waterman with Andrew Peretz, Brent Ozarowski and Courtney Adham is beginning to market the 480,000 square- foot availability as 225 Park Ave. South.

Along with entirely new mechanicals, STUDIOS Architecture has designed a dramatic glass-walled stairway to join the two buildings that can be accessed from either property but is hidden from the street.

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The old-fashioned office building is getting a brand new look