Originally built in 1902, and situated in the heart of Manhattan's townhouse blocks, this house was designed by one of New York’s early architectural legends, John Duncan. With such neighbours as the Knickerbocker Club, the Metropolitan Club, Hotel Pierre, and the Fabri/Vanderbilt Residence, this exceptional 5 ½ story limestone mansion has been painstakingly preserved and meticulously restored by its prominent architect-owner.

It is today one of the most outstanding examples of Beaux-Arts residential design, and shows the considerable architectural skill Duncan honed while designing Grant’s Tomb.

The interior of the house contains perfectly proportioned rooms that feature detailing such as carved marble fireplace mantels, a sweeping marble stair with decorative wrought iron and brass balustrades, intricately carved and cast plaster mouldings and friezes, solid mahogany pocket doors and door frames and wainscoting, parquet wood floors, marble floors, decorative glass windows, French doors, skylights, and original brass and crystal hardware.

In addition to the exceptional ceiling heights (nearly 17’ on the parlour floor), the house has open exposures front and rear, views of Central Park from its roof, a four passenger elevator serving all floors, two entrances from the street, a separate service stair throughout, and an opportunity to create a private rear entrance from a neighboring below-ground garage. Mechanical upgrades include a new boiler, split-system air conditioning units throughout, plumbing and electrical upgrades, and an intercom and security system.

On the 3rd floor there's double-height Library at the front that is lined with book shelves and a dramatic oval mezzanine above. A large window which follows the curve of the façade provides ample light and picturesque city views. A large Master Bedroom suite at the rear is adjoined by his and hers Dressing Rooms and two Master Bathrooms. While the roof, accessed via elevator, offers dramatic views of Central Park.

In the basement (also served by the elevator) there is a large Den Area at the rear having a full-height window leading to the exterior Court. A separate Wine Cellar or staff bedroom and Bath has access to the exterior Court. A neighbouring garage offers an opportunity to create private access to parking space.

So you've a perfect location, views of Central Park, a library, wine cellar, Den amd garaging, all within walking distance of one of the most exciting cities in the world. Such benefits have a price - $31,000,000 to be precise.

For further information please visit www.sothebys.com.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Sotheby's