We need a Kübler-Rossian scheme to describe the NYT’s gradual realization that the “idea” of converting Manhattan office buildings to residential space is dead. The first stage is denial: “NYC is coming back!” The second stage is closer to bargaining: “But the mayor and the governor are tweaking laws to make it easier.” We’re on the cusp of the third, depression-like stage now: “It’s pretty much technically impossible.” The fourth stage will focus on the financial obstacles: broke owners won’t be willing or able to take huge risks on isolated projects, and getting them to act collectively? LOLOLO. The fifth stage will be accepting that underutilized and poorly maintained “Class A” real estate, with all its intertwingled “smart” this and “BIM” that, will be a disaster. Except, by the time the NYT finally gets to that stage, the MTA (read: subways) will be well and truly fucked.