The Chelsea Mercantile is one of the largest residential conversions in Chelsea. Nestled between West 24th and 25th streets, 252 Seventh Avenue is located at the heart of this lively neighborhood. Although the conversion was completed in 2000, the building is rich in history. Originally built in 1908, The Mercantile was known simply as “The National,” and operated as a clothing mail order house before being converted to the Veterans Administration building after World War II. The renovated building maintains the early 20th century limestone façade and Moroccan tile underneath the rotunda. The sprawling lobby captures the building's history with deep colors and mosaic décor in the terrazzo flooring. The 354 apartments in the Chelsea Mercantile range from studios to four-bedroom lofts. Gourmet kitchens with stainless-steel appliances, black granite counter tops, cherry wood cabinets and built-in garbage disposals are standard for all units. The master bathrooms are equally luxurious, and feature limestone walls and floors, deep-soaking tubs and separate stall showers. The 10,000 sq. ft. rooftop deck—and many of the apartments themselves—provides an excellent view of the city. An extensive fitness center and children's playroom are open to all residents. Other amenities include a full-time doorman, concierge, and a valet service for cleaning. A Whole Foods is located on the ground level for an unbeatably convenient shopping experience. Public transportation is easily accessible, with the M20 7th Ave bus stop in front of the building and the M23 crosstown bus and the 1 train a mere block away.