312 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022

Property Description

An Enduring Manhattan Treasure, Landmarked Turtle Bay Townhouse with Extra-Large Garden OasisBuilt in 1866 by Robert and James Cunningham, 312 East 53rd Street is one of Manhattan’s last surviving wood-frame residences, a French Second Empire townhouse with a mansard roof and bracketed cornices, officially designated a New York City Landmark in 1968. The home has been carefully rehabilitated to preserve its original character, including wide-plank floors, fireplaces, and preserved millwork throughout.While you have all the amazing character and charming detail inside, outside you step into a gloriously large garden, 70-ft deep, giving you your own oasis in New York City. With a storied history and many notable inhabitants over the years, including Lincoln Kirstein founder of the New York City Ballet, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a piece of NYC history and to add your own chapter to its story.Garden FloorA front entry hall leads to a spacious updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large dining area. The kitchen opens directly to a private, full-canopy garden with mature trees, lush landscaping, and a working fountain, creating a peaceful Midtown retreat. Ideal for outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxation, the 1,250-sq-ft bi-level garden also offers significant expansion potential. And of course, abundant room to roam for your happy dogs.Parlour FloorThe formal stoop entrance opens to your main living space with 10-ft ceilings in a generously proportioned living room that flows into a rear library and study which is lined with built-in bookshelves overlooking the garden. The space is brightened by large window exposures and retains original architectural details including functional shutters, ornate carved wood mantels, exposed brick, and fireplaces. A powder room with a crystal chandelier completes the level.Third FloorTwo well-proportioned bedrooms are bright and airy, including a front bedroom with a bonus room that functions as a large walk-in closet, nursery, or private study, adding flexible use for a variety of needs. The bedroom in the rear has great views into the lush garden and its own decorative fireplace. A windowed marble bathroom with double pedestal sinks and soaking tub completes the level.Fourth FloorThe entire top floor is dedicated to a gracious primary retreat, entered through a skylit landing that brings in abundant light. The full primary bedroom features arched alcove windows and original exposed brick detailing, creating warmth and character throughout. Abundant built-in storage and multiple closets provide exceptional practicality, while the en-suite bath with double pedestal sinks and original tin ceiling offers a quiet sense of luxury. A flexible rear room serves equally well as a walk-in dressing room, private office, or sitting area.CellarThe cellar provides additional storage and utility space, along with laundry facilities, extra refrigeration, a cedar closet, and direct stair access to the garden.*Select photos have been digitally staged.