The Brutalist Landmark Overlooking the Hudson

Elevated high above the Hudson River and overlooking New York City, the Galaxy Towers are among Hudson County’s most recognizable skyscrapers. The three towers are a defining feature of Guttenberg and a familiar sight for both residents and visitors.

Construction began in 1976, and the towers were designed by Gruzen and Partners in the Brutalist style, which is evident in their minimalist appearance. This architectural style emphasizes structural form over decorative detail. While often criticized as unadorned, the towers’ prominent location along the riverfront offsets the simplicity of their design.

Standing at 415 feet, the towers rise 44 stories and contain 1,075 residential units. Originally built as rental apartments, they offer sweeping views of Manhattan. The three towers are linked at the base by a shopping center with full amenities, creating a self-contained residential community.

When the apartments first opened in 1976, the storefronts and mall were not yet complete, and the units were temporary rentals. This limited appeal to prospective tenants. The situation changed in 1980, when the rentals were converted to condominiums and the commercial spaces were completed, attracting long-term residents.

Today, the towers span just four blocks but remain Guttenberg’s defining landmark. Estimates suggest that anywhere from one-fifth to nearly one-half of the town’s population resides in the towers.