44 West 77th St. #4W

Contract signed.IRREPLACEABLE HISTORIC PREWAR HOME

(Museum of Natural History and Central Park West)

In 1900, developer Walter Russell Bond and Realty conceived an idea to create one of a kind studios with expansive ceiling heights, on a 100-foot lot he had purchased on West 77th Street, opposite from the expanding Museum of Natural History. The premiere architects of the era, Harde & Short, specializing in unusual and distinctive apartment houses that attracted the bourgeoisie, were commissioned to realize Walter’s dream. Harde & Short prepared a bespoke floor plan for studio apartments with a 14.5" height for the renowned artists of the time.

Located on an open and airy block, The Studio Building sits immediately south of the renowned Museum of Natural History on the most manicured Central Park block evoking a feeling of a Parisian street full of cherry blossoms, banquets, wide sidewalks and manicured lawns.

The distinguished co-op contains only 32 luxurious residences. The full-service amenities include a full-time doorman stationed in an impressive lobby with distinct Gothic details such as a groin-vaulted ceiling and decorative balcony mezzanine. Additionally, the building contains private storage, a gym, playroom, central laundry room, and is pet friendly.

Apartment #4 is truly an architectural and historical New York masterpiece; a real trophy home with oversized and articulated windows that face the leafy and expansive grounds of the Museum and West 77th Street. This unparalleled 11-room residence will forever remain a treasure in Manhattan. The original studio encompassed 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and generous staff accommodations with carved wood pilasters and Corinthian capitals – which are just a few touches that make this apartment a magnificent home. Additional living spaces include a library, an original wood paneled dining room with Gothic windows plus a working wood burning fireplace, and a glorious original entrance hall. For buyers with a discerning eye, this apartment is a blank canvas upon which they can create a truly unique home for generations to come. The present configuration includes 3 bedrooms plus 2.5 bathrooms. The pristine, large and light-filled master bedroom suite comes with a private windowed master bathroom outfitted with a tub and a large walk-in closet.

The rich history of this unique New York home is written in the inimitable details of its architecture and design. The Grand Hall, where Mr. Aaron Shikler painted his famous Kennedy masterpieces, boasts a 14.5ft. plus ceiling height. The precise architectural dimensions of the residence’s grand, open and light-infused spaces set the ideal stage for an avid art collector. The Studio presents a perfect venue for elegant entertaining, intimate family gatherings, and gallery-style art showcases. The current owners are only the third family to ever live here – a true rarity in the Manhattan of today. Financing is 50%.