A prewar co-op loft, in the heart of the East Village

If you think railroad apartments can't be luxurious, take a look at this two-bedroom loft. The co-op sits at the heart of the East Village, in an eight-story, prewar building that overlooks Astor Place, and its position on the seventh floor means fantastic views and plenty of natural light. Listed at Sotheby's International Realty for $2.25 million, the apartment also allows pied-a-terres for those who want to be in the heart of downtown when they drop in. 

The building's industrial roots show in the exposed brick walls and the high ceilings, which are barrel-vaulted, an unusual feature whose curvature lends elegance to the space. 

The living room flows into the kitchen, which boasts stainless steel appliances and abundant counter space. There's also a large pantry and floor-to-ceiling cabinets for extra storage. 

A hallway leads past an office, second bedroom, and bath, affording more privacy than is typical with a railroad layout. The master bedroom includes an en-suite bath, which has its own service entrance. (The other entrance leads into the living room.) 

Homeowners here also have access to a landscaped rooftop deck, which offers panoramic views of the East Village. The apartment includes a washer and dryer unit, as well as plentiful closet space in the hallway, and the listing notes that the building is pet-friendly. 

According to Streeteasy, the apartment was on the market with a much higher asking last fall. Your call whether the asking now sits where it should be.