Description

GRAND 20’ BROWNSTONE WITH RICH HERITAGE -- PRIME UWS MUSEUM PARK BLOCK

MULTI-FAMILY OR SINGLE FAMILY — YOU CHOOSE

CURRENTLY: 4-Family w/ZERO Rental Restrictions - Market Rate Rentals - Delivered Vacant if Desired

CAN BE: Ideal Income Producer or Supreme Single Family (or Hybrid of Both!)

West 80th Street, between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues, is an exquisite landmarked block, bordering the American Museum of Natural History. In either direction, one can find all the conveniences of the city: multiple options for transportation; popular restaurants; stylish boutiques; and fantastic food shopping – plus a farmer’s market on Sunday. In the center of the south side of the block is No. 144, which has become available for the first time in more than 40 years.

In 1890 real estate developer George Cohen hired Gilbert A. Schellenger to design five upscale rowhouses at 140-148 West 80th Street. Each rose four stories above a high English basement. The middle house, No. 144, is a Renaissance Revival design, faced in brownstone. It features a dog-legged stoop and a classically inspired triangular pediment above the arched entrance. The facade of the building appears unchanged after 135 years, and many original interior details remain.

Among the early inhabitants of the house were several well-to-do families, including the Hungarian Count and Countess Festetics de Tolna. A succession of various families moved in and out of the house before it was eventually was converted to apartments. In 1980, the house was purchased by a family of authors, who would go on to write a series of best-selling books in the home offices they created in the building. This “multi-generational home,” features four separate living spaces. The “owner’s duplex,” with three bedrooms, occupies the garden and parlor levels, with private backyard garden access. An additional 3-bedroom duplex spans the 2nd/3rd floors; and two one-bedroom apartments occupy the top floor.

With more than 6,000 square feet to work with, a new owner will have multiple options: upgrade and maintain it as four separate living spaces (with income potential); create a single-family residence with an elevator; or some combination thereof. The possibilities are endless, as this building will be delivered vacant.

ENTRANCE AND OWNER’S DUPLEX

One enters this home by ascending the dog-legged stoop, through carved oak doors, arriving in the foyer and the owner’s duplex. A carved oak staircase, with lions’ heads, leads to the upstairs units. The parlor floor of the owner’s living quarters has maintained some priceless architectural hallmarks from the previous century: 12’6" high ceilings, hardwood floors, exposed brick, majestic pocket doors, and a wood burning fireplace. From end to end, the seamless combination of living room, gallery and dining room spans a grand 51 feet. Off the dining room, a deck leads down to the tranquil garden, highlighted by mature shade trees, seasonal flowers, and a koi pond/
fountain.

Upon descending the interior staircase, the garden level of the owner’s duplex features an oversized primary bedroom, with multiple closets and built-in cabinetry, and a spacious en-suite bathroom. Two additional bedrooms face the garden and share a hall bath. A front entry to the street offers a sheltered bicycle space, and separate areas for garbage, recycling and compost.

The cellar currently contains a laundry room, office, and multiple storage areas. The 1,000 sq ft space could easily accommodate a gym, wine cellar, and more.

2ND/3RD FLOOR DUPLEX APARTMENT

A soaring 10’ high exposed brick wall, a wood-burning fireplace, and a sculptural oak staircase are a few of the outstanding characteristics of this duplex unit. Large windows face the garden from the living room and den. A double-length galley kitchen opens to a light and airy dining room, offering a tree-lined street exposure. Another room and full bath (which could be used for guests or live-in help) l Listing courtesy of Compass ...
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