A new chapter in Belleville’s residential landscape is unfolding with the arrival of Ethos Kelsey, a boutique rental community designed for contemporary, elevated living. Located at 740 Washington Avenue, Ethos Kelsey introduces 104 thoughtfully crafted residences, including 78 one-bedroom apartments and 26 studio units, setting a new standard for upscale rentals in the area. Represented exclusively by Donna Keena, Broker Associate at Christie’s Edgewater Sales Gallery, this newly unveiled collection of residences is now leasing, with a grand opening celebration scheduled for June 2025.
Offering a blend of modern design and curated amenities, Ethos Kelsey is the latest addition to Christie’s International Real Estate Group’s new development portfolio. Residents will enjoy sleek interiors featuring detailed wood finishes, breakfast bars, and, in many units, private terraces that extend living spaces outdoors. Units range from 596 to 996 sq. ft., with starting rents at $2,300 per month.
What truly sets Ethos Kelsey apart is its unmatched suite of amenities, designed to elevate everyday living and create a resort-style experience for residents. At the heart of the community is Belleville’s first and only rooftop pool, offering sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Complete with private cabanas and grilling stations, this striking rooftop space redefines luxury living in the area. Inside, the property offers an impressive array of thoughtfully designed spaces for work, wellness, and relaxation. Two Zoom-enabled workspaces provide the perfect environment for remote professionals, while a state-of-the-art fitness center, pet spa, and dog run cater to health-conscious and pet-loving residents alike. The building also features several indoor and outdoor lounges ideal for gathering or unwinding, along with a game room with billiards for entertainment. Additional conveniences such as overnight guest suites, dedicated cold and package storage, bike storage, and covered parking ensure that every aspect of daily life is not only accommodated but enhanced. At Ethos Kelsey, the amenity offering is not just an added benefit—it’s the foundation of the lifestyle the community promises.
Designed and developed by Sound Development, Ethos Kelsey reflects a growing vision for Belleville as a vibrant, livable destination. The project is part of a broader partnership between Sound Development and Donna Keena, whose collaboration has helped shape several transformative residential communities across Northern New Jersey. With expertise spanning land acquisition, municipal approvals, planning, and lease-up, Keena has played an integral role in the success of recent multifamily developments including Ethos Franklin (56 units, Belleville) and 59 Willet Street (18 units, Bloomfield), in addition to Ethos Kelsey. Two more Sound Development projects—an 84-unit mixed-use community and a 20-unit condominium development—have also received approvals and are currently in the pipeline.
Michael Pacillo, Director of Acquisitions at Sound Development, shared, “Our collaboration with Christie’s and Donna Keena has always been driven by a mutual commitment to quality and innovation. With Ethos Kelsey, we’re bringing a next-level living experience to a town that continues to grow and inspire.”
Donna Keena, Broker Associate with Christie’s Edgewater Sales Gallery and the exclusive listing agent for Ethos Kelsey, added, “Ethos means character—and this development certainly lives up to its name. With unmatched amenities and a prime location, it offers a lifestyle that’s both simple and beautiful. The view from the rooftop alone is a showstopper, but it’s Belleville’s charm—its history, its schools, its cultural gems like the Belmont Tavern and the cherry blossoms—that will make people proud to call this community home.”
Often overlooked, Belleville is emerging as a sought-after destination thanks to its unique blend of small-town appeal and big-city access. Dubbed the Cherry Blossom Capital, the town rivals Washington, D.C. each spring and continues to draw attention for its evolving residential scene, excellent transit connections, and neighborhood charm.
With Ethos Kelsey, the bar has been raised—not just for Belleville, but for the future of rental living in New Jersey.