Hollywood History For Sale: Inside 19th-Century Manhattan Townhouse

A rare opportunity to own a piece of New York City history awaits in the heart of Midtown East, where a distinguished 19th-century townhouse in the coveted Turtle Bay Gardens Historic District is set to auction.

Listed for US$7.75 million in cooperation with Ana Centola of Sotheby’s International Realty, the 20-foot-wide, five-story residence offers refined city living with direct access to a private, European-style communal garden. Starting bids are anticipated between US$3.5 million and US$5 million. Bidding is set to open 21 May via the firm’s online marketplace, Concierge Auctions and will culminate live on 29 May at Sotheby’s London as part of the London Global Sales lineup.

Originally built in 1869 and completely reimagined for 21st-century living, this impeccably maintained townhome is a truly exceptional and historic property, distinguished by its rare and remarkable internal garden that opens directly onto a shared landscaped park designed in the 1920s by philanthropist Charlotte Hunnewell Sorchan. Sorchan famously united the rear gardens of 20 adjoining rowhouses to create a European-style communal garden oasis, drawing in some of the city’s most illustrious residents over the years.

“From the moment I first saw this home, I was struck by its architectural character and the tranquility of the gardens,” said Centola. “It’s a privilege to represent such a distinctive property with such heritage and charm in one of Manhattan’s most historic enclaves.”

Once home to such cultural icons as Stephen Sondheim, Katharine Hepburn, and literary editor Robert Gottlieb, the Turtle Bay Gardens community has long attracted luminaries from the arts and entertainment worlds, drawn by its unique blend of seclusion, heritage, and location. The home spans nearly 5,000 square feet across five levels and features six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, offering ample space for refined city living and entertaining. A newly renovated chef’s kitchen with custom cabinetry and premium appliances complements the preserved original architectural details throughout the home—carved moldings, grand staircases, and fireplaces—offering a seamless blend of old-world craftsmanship and modern luxury. The garden-facing rooms open directly to one of the city’s most enchanting and hidden landscapes, creating a private retreat just blocks from Midtown Manhattan.

“This home offers the rarest combination of privacy, heritage, and lifestyle in one of the most densely populated cities on Earth,” said Chad Roffers, CEO of Concierge Auctions. “We’re proud to present this historic gem to our global network of collectors, tastemakers, and discerning buyers seeking one-of-a-kind opportunities.”

Meticulously preserved architectural details harmonize with contemporary upgrades throughout the property, creating an ambiance of timeless elegance. Additional spaces include a formal dining room, media room, library/office, and a full-floor primary suite.

Steeped in history and global significance, the Turtle Bay neighborhood rose to international prominence when the United Nations established its headquarters there in the 1940s. Today, the neighborhood blends cosmopolitan vibrancy with a serene residential atmosphere and offers easy access to the rest of Manhattan while placing residents within reach of world-class dining, including Michelin-starred Le Bernardin, and cultural institutions like the Museum of Modern Art.

Images: 3D Vuz.