Perfectly poised off Park Avenue on a prime Upper East Side romantic tree-lined block, this stately limestone townhouse (with elevator that serves all 6 floors) offers the opportunity to own an historically significant townhouse that incorporates every modern convenience! Built in 1879 by architect John Payne, it is easy to understand how this home's distinguished facade and grand interiors won the attention of the Society of the Descendants of the Mayflower who purchased the townhouse in the 1920's to host grand events and encourage kinship of its members (with grace and ease) while also to display and protect their important library collection. More recently, this elegant townhouse endured a transformative three year state-of-the-art renovation showcasing impeccable craftsmanship and finishes elevating this house in grand style by masterfully including every amenity required for luxurious modern living.
The gracious reception room of the parlor floor captivates with its 12' ceilings, silky smooth skim coated walls, gas burning marble fireplace, magnificent enlarged bay window, commanding staircase, and classic black & white inlaid marble floors. Beyond this impressive entrance hall resides the breathtaking side by side living and dining rooms. These grand and well proportioned south-facing rooms delight with 12' crowned ceilings, solid hardwood herringbone floors, and (second) gas burning marble fireplace. These architectural details in concert with brilliant interior design create a lyrical atmosphere for both grand celebrations or intimate gatherings. To complete the experience, the sun-kissed living room overlooks the lush (south-facing) landscaped garden below, AND the most beautiful stained glass muraled window of the neighboring townhouse...An artful vista that uniquely provides both beauty and privacy.
Take the stairs (or the elevator) to the garden level to behold the most scrumptious chef's eat-in-kitchen featuring a large marble central island, generous walk-in pantry and storage, Smallbone cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops, 2 Subzero refrigerators with freezer drawers, a six burner Wolf stove, and oven, Miele dishwasher and Miele espresso machine. Adjacent to this timeless kitchen, is the most inviting media room ideal for more casual living. Beautiful French doors lead to the irrigated landscaped garden perfect for outdoor entertaining or alfresco dining!
The generously sized primary suite inhabits the entire third floor of the house and enjoys its own private south-facing terrace, and two walk-in closets. A medley of cool toned stone, glass and porcelain, the glorious spa-like bath with soaking tub, separate shower and two sinks will make your heart sing!
Bathed in sunlight, the fourth and fifth floors each have two large bedrooms (for a total of 5 bedrooms) each with their own en-suite marble baths and generous closet space. In addition, the fifth floor has a (second) laundry room.
Importantly, the well appointed exercise studio in the basement, has high ceilings and audio/visual systems. En route to the studio are five wine refrigerators with a 1000 bottle storage capacity! Also on this floor is a separate large laundry room plus additional storage rooms and mechanicals. Other amenities include multi-zoned central air-conditioning, low voltage lighting, television, audio, communication, and security systems.
Designed with the grace and precision of a concerto by Mozart, this elevator townhouse has it all and represents the utmost in Manhattan townhouse living!