Have you ever found yourself captivated by the allure of mysteries? From classic detective novels to modern crime shows, the genre has a way of drawing us in. As a self-proclaimed fan of all things mysterious, I recently indulged in the entertaining series "Only Murders in the Building" on Hulu. And let me tell you, it's a must-watch!
Starring the incredible trio of Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, and Martin Short, the show revolves around three characters who reside in the fictional Arconia, a grand apartment building nestled in Manhattan's Upper West Side. Their lives intertwine when a murder takes place within the building and they embark on a thrilling journey to solve the crime. With a well-crafted script, doses of humor, and unexpected twists, "Only Murders in the Building" is a delightful binge-worthy delight.
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While the majority of the series takes place within the Arconia, a real-life building adds authenticity to the show. Enter The Belnord, an iconic apartment building located at the corner of W. 86th Street and Broadway. This architectural marvel has a storied history dating back to 1908. It has boasted a prominent presence throughout the years, with a recent sale fetching a staggering $575 million. Today, you can own a piece of this history for a cool $14 million or even rent a luxurious five-bedroom apartment for $30,000 a month.
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Designed by the renowned architectural firm Hiss and Weekes, The Belnord immediately captures attention with its exquisite Italian Renaissance style. Boasting 175 apartments, the building extends across an entire city block and offers a blend of amenities that were considered modern marvels at the time. From cutting-edge refrigeration to a central vacuum system, The Belnord was a testament to luxury living. Its grand courtyard, featuring a breathtaking marble fountain and a children's playground, was hailed as the largest interior courtyard in the world when it was built.
Image source: thebelnord.com
As an ardent fan of "Only Murders in the Building," what fascinated me the most were the side-by-side archways on the 86th Street side of The Belnord. These towering structures, often featured in the show, reveal stunning Roman red frescoes adorning the curved ceiling. Oh, how I long to witness them in person!
This architectural gem has witnessed its fair share of intriguing tales over the years. From curious jewelry thefts to a renowned pigeon tamer's rooftop coops, The Belnord is ripe with potential storylines for any mystery writer. Imagine a mystery set against the backdrop of stolen jewels or a soldier's body discovered amidst the pigeon coops. The possibilities are endless!
But that's not all. The Belnord has etched its name in legal history too. In one instance, it became the first building in New York where tenants successfully sought damages from a landlord for injuries caused by coal gas. In another historic dispute, tenants stood united to protest poor maintenance, leading to a substantial rent fund of $1.5 million. The resolution of this lengthy battle and the subsequent sale of The Belnord make you wonder: What hidden secrets lie within its walls?
Image source: thebelnord.com
If you're seeking a unique viewing experience, infused with mystery and laced with comedy, I highly recommend you immerse yourself in the world of "Only Murders in the Building." Don't forget to start from the first season and relish the anticipation of Season Three!
And while we're on the subject of mysteries, let me suggest another captivating read that might pique your interest. "Georgia on My Mind: True Tales from Around the State" is an intriguing collection of thirty stories from all corners of Georgia. Volume Two is also on the horizon, so keep an eye out for more captivating tales. You can grab a copy of the book in print or Kindle format [here](insert link).
Image source: Sanaulac
So, go ahead and dive into the intriguing world of "Only Murders in the Building" while appreciating the real-life charm of The Belnord. Remember, within the realm of mysteries, both on screen and off, lies a hidden tapestry waiting to be unraveled.
