Built To Last
Monica Michael Willis | New York Cottages and Gardens
While demand for contemporary, tech-forward residential buildings fitted with every bell and whistle continues to grow, many of New York City's luxury house hunters aren't in the market for open floor plans or a preponderance of all-glass walls. For better or worse, their hearts beat strongest in prewar buildings constructed during an earlier building boom, when grand marble lobbies, hand-carved mantels, plaster ceiling medallions, and wide windowsills were more the norm than the exception. Some cite an ineffable soulfulness, others simply love the craftmanship of coffered ceilings, pocket doors, or the feel of century-old newel post. This month's listings highlight several exceptional prewar properties, from a renovated limestone bank in Park Slope and ana elegant duplex overlooking Gramercy Park to rare offerings in two of Gotham’s most recognizable grande dames, The Flatiron Building and the Plaza.
FLATIRON DISTRICT
New to the market, the one-of-a-kind residence at 11 South in The Flatiron Building offers the rare opportunity to live in one of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks. Priced at $16 million and designed by NYC’s Studio Sofield, the 3,828 square foot condominium occupies two corners of the storied Beaux-Arts tower at 17th Fifth Avenue, with exposures to the east, south, and west.
A private elevator opens to a gracious vestibule that sets the tone for the sprawling home. The 58 by 21 great room features 10-foot ceilings and custom curved windows framing views of the neighborhood’s cast iron lofts and the Ladies’ Mile Historic District. The elegant Italian Poliform kitchen pairs minimalist cabinetry with premium Gaggenau appliances. There are four en-suite bedrooms, including a dreamy primary with a walk-in closet, separate dressing room, and windowed marble bath with a glamorous freestanding soaking tub wrapped in nickel.
Residents can also enjoy the Flatiron’s 60-foot lap pool, expansive fitness center, cold plunge and sauna, sports simulator, billiards room, and piano lounge overlooking Madison Square Park. Occupancy is slated for fall. Contact Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group at (212) 735-1750 to learn more.
