Of the sights epitomizing life in Manhattan, the Metropolitan Museum of Art—with its Beaux Arts façade, stately steps, and fountained plaza—sits near the top of the list. When leaves are falling from the trees in autumn, the dining room window in this spectacular 8,000-square-foot residence—located in one of Fifth Avenue’s most prestigious buildings—frames that scene, fashioning a personal piece of dynamic art representing one of the most iconic tableaux in the city.
New York, New York | Juliette R. Janssens & Allison B. Koffman, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage
A priceless combination and renewal of multiple homes, this residence was always intended to exemplify the singular sensation of New York. The current owners—one of them a highly accomplished architect—undertook the formidable project, creating an up-to-the-minute modern oasis that meets the demands of today’s sophisticated lifestyle, all while paying tribute to the building’s history. Classical details—including moldings and window mullions—were meticulously retained or rejuvenated. Where floors aren’t clad in limestone, they consist instead of richly hued oak in a time-honored chevron pattern. With the help of skilled artisans, millwork was painstakingly hand-finished using a wire brush to produce an eye-catching texture and sheen—some of it then given a glowing veneer of Italian lacquer. Throughout, heightened ceilings and oversized windows generate a sense of airiness and light, humidifiers have been incorporated to maintain proper conditions for art, and audiovisual systems have been thoroughly updated.
The floor plan is timeless and easy, with refined living and entertaining spaces seamlessly linked: a formal dining room, a glorious living room, a wet bar and wine cellar thoughtfully tucked between the two, and a library illuminated by multiple windows. An exercise in soothing, streamlined fluidity, the kitchen offers ample yet discreet cabinet space, a marble island with counter seating, the de rigueur stainless-steel appliances, and a butler’s pantry. The private quarters—six bedrooms, a den, and an office—live up to their name, secluded down a serene northeast-facing hallway. Of these, the owner’s retreat boasts a fireplace, an impressively spacious closet and dressing area with abundant built-ins, and dual baths that share a stunning marble- and glass-wrapped shower.
As should be expected in one of the city’s finest full-service residential cooperatives, amenities abound in the Prewar building at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 83rd Street. The door is attended around the clock, and four elevators allow for effortless access. Storage space and a fitness center are available. Sealing the home’s status as the height of chic Manhattan living, the location is just steps from Central Park, the Guggenheim, and of course, the Met.
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