Townhouse Spring 2012

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE NEW YORK OBSERVER

Buying Over Renting

Is the Smart Choice+

Amazing Luxurious Amenities

That Marvel+

Tackling Renovations

+Townhouse

Scandals

THE ESSENTIAL RESOURCE FOR THE DISCERNING TOWNHOUSE BUYERSPRING 2012

COVER PHOTO22 East 71st StreetSerena Boardman, 212.606.7611Meredyth Hull Smith, 212.606.7683Sotheby’s International Realty, Page 9

TH_SPRING2012_Cover_SD.indd 1 5/4/12 12:26:56 PM

STAN PONTE | SVP, Associate Broker | 212.400.4109 I [email protected] VANNESSA KAUFMAN | SVP, Associate Broker | 212.606.7639 I [email protected]

EAST SIDE MANHATTAN BROKERAGE I sothebyshomes.com/nyc38 EAST 61ST STREET NEW YORK, NY 10065 T 212.606.7660 F 212.606.7661Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. is owned and operated by NRT LLC. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark.

STAN PONTE | VANNESSA KAUFMAN

Chelsea Townhouse wiTh indoor Pool: Nestled at the crossroads of the Meatpacking, Chelsea, and West Village, this 5 story 22.5’ wide townhouse is an oasis of serenity and privacy even while this vibrant neighborhood pulses with life. The focal point of the home is a 26 foot long and 8 foot deep indoor pool which is grandfathered in and cannot be built today! Beyond the pool is a sun-flooded 16’ high solarium leading onto a lush south-facing garden. Wet bar and living area with sauna completes the garden level for wonderful entertaining and self pampering! $9,950,000. Web NYO0017987

Untitled-5 1 5/3/12 10:22:09 AM

Village Townhouse wiTh garage:Behind a discreet façade lies the rarest of town homes! Built 100’ deep on the garden floor this 25’ wide house has a 2 car garage and elevator. A serene entrance gallery leads to an impressive great room nearly 60’ in length with a soaring solarium and private garden. The second, third and fourth levels feature a chef’s kitchen, dining room with sliding glass wall leading onto a terrace, private bedroom floor, and roof deck. This one of a kind home emphasizes light, volume and privacy.

$14,950,000Web NYO0018006

ExTRAORdINARY TOWNhOUSES

Untitled-5 1 5/3/12 10:22:18 AM

TOWNHOUSE SPRING 201222

renovations

was three times [what] I expected.” “Count on spending at least $200 per-

square foot MORE than your architect and contractor tell you to budget for,” Brett Miles, Senior Vice President and Associ-ate Broker at Town Residential agreed. “Manhattan townhouses tend to have hid-den surprises, especially if the work in-volves excavating.”

Ms. Cames also said it’s something for which potential townhouse owners need to prepare.

“Have a good amount—a little safety reserve left over in your budget when you start,” she said.

Even a restoration veteran like Ms. Cames can run into an unexpected multi-week setback. One of her Brooklyn res-toration projects has been delayed by at least a month because of major floor and structural issues.

“The way the plumbing was done—they

had carved out a huge chunk of the beam to set the pipes in so there was very little beam left. Also, the beams were more nar-row than usual, and then there was a lot of leaking over the years which had de-stroyed those beams which were already completely mangled from cutting,” she said. “In the basement there was a crack in the lateral beam but we couldn’t see how

much that had effected the other beams upstairs and it had effected them a lot.”

“Every time a plumber touches some-thing it’s $1,000 it seems,” Mr. Morris-sette added.

But with no risk, there is no reward. Sometimes, old stuff is way cooler than new stuff.

“I’ve always loved historic build-ings because they have the most char-acter,” Mr. Morrissette said. “When you’re working with an old apartment or building, you automatically have this built-in coolness that never goes away. Even if you designed the place with modern everything—the ‘bones’ of the place are still there. I grew up in a lit-tle Connecticut suburban development where all the houses look the same à la Edward Scissorhands…So I guess when I finally got out, old peeling molding appealed to me.”

‘Count on spending at least $200 per

square foot MORE than your architect and contractor tell you to budget for.’

Exterior and interior photos of Ms. Cames’ 30 Grove Street renovation. The two smaller images are before and after.

TH_RENOVATIONS_SPRIN2012.indd 22 5/4/12 1:17:24 PM

NEW GREEN LANDMARK MANSION

© 2012 BRER Affiliates Inc. An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation with Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. While, this information is believed to be correct, it is represented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. All property information, including, but not limited to square footage, room count, number of bedrooms and the school district in property listings are deemed reliable, but should be verified by your own attorney, architect or zoning expert.

M A N H A T T A N | B R O O K LY N | Q U E E N S | L O N G I S L A N D | T H E H A M P T O N S | T H E N O R T H F O R K | R I V E R D A L E | W E S T C H E S T E R / P U T N A M | F L O R I D A

West 70s | $13,995,000 | Embrace your privacy in NYC in this custom built single family townhouse. This mansion offers over 8,000 sf interior and 2,000 sf outdoor living space. 6 bedrooms, 11 baths, 10 wood burning fireplaces, steam/sauna, wine cellar, media room, a commercial elevator that services all six stories. Entertain a large function or just come home for a cozy dinner prepared in the Smallbone custom kitchen. Monitor your home from within or away with the smart house technology. Web# 1399816.

TALIN ESHAGHOFF SARRAF 516.316.6560 | [email protected]

FOR GUIDANCE AND INSIGHT ON ALL THINGS REAL ESTATE, PUT THE POWER OF ELLIMAN TO WORK FOR YOU. ASKELLIMAN.COM

VIRTUALLY STAGED

PDE NYO Talin Sarraf May-rev7.indd 1 4/30/12 4:51 PMAdPageSetup.indd 2 4/30/12 5:21:08 PM

SPECTACULAR LIMESTONE MANSION

SERENA BOARDMAN | Senior Vice President, Associate Broker | 212.606.7611MEREDYTH HULL SMITH | Senior Vice President, Associate Broker | 212.606.7683

EAST SIDE MANHATTAN BROKERAGE I sothebyshomes.com/nyc38 EAST 61ST STREET NEW YORK, NY 10065 T 212.606.7660 F 212.606.7661

Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. is owned and operated by NRT LLC. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark.

22 EAST 71ST ST: Grand and elegant 45’ wide, 21,000+/- Sq. Ft. Limestone Mansion featuring a spectacular sweeping marble staircase and soaring high ceilings. This extraordinary CPH Gilbert designed townhouse offers the discerning buyer the rare opportunity to own a Manhattan landmark with the versatility of residential or commercial use. $50,000,000 WEB:NYO0015884

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since most just face across the street,” said Wolf Jakubowski, Senior Vice Presi-dent, Managing Director and licensed asso-ciate real estate broker at Brown Harris Ste-vens. “Our listing at 103 Riverside is a real exception since it faces directly onto River-side Park. The last single family with such views sold on 107th and Riverside Drive in 2007 for over $15,000,000.”

Although it’s true that the exterior views matter, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. What could be more spectacular than hav-ing your very own indoor pool? According to Senior Vice President and Associate Bro-ker at Sotheby’s International Realty, Stan Ponte, not much.

“Our exclusive at 232 West 15th Street, featuring a one-of-a-kind, 8-foot-deep, 30-

foot long indoor pool, has caught the atten-tion of buyers all over the world,” he said.

Mr. Ponte, did however, have anoth-

er unique option. Even though it might not be as extravagant as an indoor pool, it’s still music to every New Yorker’s ears: a garage!

“Our exclusive at 196 West Houston is the epitome of the New York saying, ‘You never know what lies behind the façade of build-ings.’ Not only is this property beautifully renovated, but it includes a rare feature: a two-car garage.”

Brett Miles, Senior Vice President and associate broker at Town Residential calls their new townhouse listing at 45 East 74th Street “one of the most beautifully finished homes ever to come to market.” The cellar, often neglected and used for storage, has been converted into a state-of-the-art spa. There is a 29’ x 16’ Bisazza Mosaico tile lined saline pool with a waterfall and skylight from the garden above. It’s humidity con-trolled so that the water doesn’t evaporate.

In addition to the pool, there’s a dry sauna large enough for four as well as a wet sauna wrapped in Travertine. A fitness center of-fers health conscious city dwellers private, unlimited access to Techno Gym equipment. Residents can also de-stress with a glass of wine from the temperature controlled, ful-ly-stocked wine cellar. “There are few town-houses that will be able to compete with these luxuries.” Mr. Miles said. We concur; it’s hard to argue with that.

Prospective buyers want the conve-nience of the best amenities without sac-rificing the elusive privacy provided by townhouses. Customized residences such as the ones detailed here, offer just that. Buyers throughout the city covet town-houses, and for those lucky enough to have the purchasing power, townhouses with unique and luxurious amenities are an ide-al combination of extravagance, privacy and convenience.

Caption in this space here and here in this space right here. here in this space right here.

The children’s playroom at Superior Ink.

‘Adding a pool, gym or theatre provides

the luxury of convenience to any

townhouse.’The wine cellar at 45 East 74th Street is ideal for that oenophile townhouse buyer.

Luxu ry com forts

TH_AMENITIES_SPRIN2012.indd 14 5/4/12 10:36:36 AM

marke t report

HE TOWNHOUSE’S ORIGINAL connotation is that of wealth and splendor. In the 1700s, English landowners bought buildings in cities that had small plots so that they could fit in urban spaces, but which boasted many floors and luxurious interiors. Residents could be at the center of the buzz-

ing cultural life of a city without giving up their lavish standards of living.

Today in New York City, townhouses can be less exclusive and vary in style and location, but they remain a niche market, according to Doug Bowen,

Senior Vice President of CORE. Mr. Bowen is opti-mistic about the state of the townhouse market. Because townhouses attract a specific clientele, they maintain a more steady level of competition no mat-ter the state of real estate in the rest of the city.

Townhouses are becoming slightly more afford-able. However, those that have an aura of history, whether it’s because of their locations, styles or for-mer owners, continue to sell for monumental sums. Last year a townhouse mansion that the Vanderbilts once owned at 16 East 69th Street sold for $48 mil-lion. More recently, Truman Capote’s former townhouse in Brooklyn Heights sold for $12 mil-lion. Buildings like these illustrate the importance


TOWNHOUSES RETAIN VALUE WITH STRONG DEMAND

Deciphering the Market | By Erica Martin

T

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SPRING 2012 TOWNHOUSE 11

a city where you can’t even walk down the street without seeing a brand new high rise with prom-ises of the ultimate luxurious conve-niences and ame-

nities you “won’t find anywhere else,” real estate companies and home investors are constantly having to come up with new and unique ways to attract prospective buyers. Enter the next big concept in New York real estate: townhomes with unique, condo-like amenities.

Long sought after, townhouses are expe-riencing a market reinvention. “Townhous-es attract a very different clientele,” said Lisa Simonsen, Senior Vice President and

head of the Simonsen Group at Prudential Douglas Elliman. “People who desire the privacy of a townhouse do not want the in-trusion of a doorman and other people liv-ing in their building… they want the free-dom to create a living space that suits their personal needs without the restrictions of a board.”

It’s true, most townhome buyers tend to value privacy and control over their entire building, but that doesn’t mean the concept of additional luxury and convenience is lost on them.

“Adding a pool, gym or theatre provides the luxury of convenience to any town-house,” affirmed Ms. Simonsen.

And it’s clear she’s not the only one in the New York real estate world who feels this way. Listings for these unique townhomes

with added amenities are showing up more and more frequently.

West Village residential complex Su-perior Ink, for example, offers beautiful, historically inspired townhomes strategi-cally positioned adjacent to their condo-minium building on Bethune Street. This way, townhome owners enjoy the privacy and fulfillment of owning their own home, without having to sacrifice convenience. Developed by Related Companies and lo-cated opposite Hudson River Park, the Su-perior Ink Condominium set record sales for downtown. The complex has a bevy of amenities ranging from a 24-hour con-cierge and doorman and state-of-the-art fitness center to a children’s playroom and private screening room for films. Many no-table New Yorkers swooped in for the kill

Luxu ry com forts

Amenities beyond your wildest dreamsAnnie Cusick

IN

Residents at Superior Ink can enjoy the complex’s screening room.


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Untitled-17 1 4/12/12 3:59:15 PM

Find out how much properties have sold for.Livingthere has historical sales information for all Midtown buildings. For free. Livingthere is the smarter way to search for real estate.

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LivingThere.com is a new real estate search site for New York City. Search our comprehensive listing database of Manhattan, Brooklyn & Queensproperties. Research past sale prices for free. Save, share and discuss searches on your own personalized dashboard.

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Know what property is worth before you buy.

Untitled-8 1 5/3/12 3:00:58 PM

161 State Street, Brooklyn Heights$3,300,000

Located in New York City’s first Historic District, this townhouse is on the market for the first time in 50 years. The area’s 1965 Designation Report speak volumes about the neighborhood and its properties; “As seen today, interspersed by stately churches, the houses represent an almost unchanged community as originally built.” Historically, preservation equals value and is reflected in the steady growth of townhouse prices.

“Townhouses tell stories that fascinate us all.”-Doug Bowen

36 Bedford Street, Greenwich Village

$6,375,000

270 Sterling Place, Prospect Heights

Sold

7 Saint Marks Avenue, Park Slope

Sold

Please feel free to contact me via email: [email protected] or phone: 646-247-0822.

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ad directory

LOUISE BEIT, SOThEBy’S InTErna-TIOnaL rEaLTyA Senior Vice President, Associate Broker, of Sotheby’s International Realty and one of Manhattan’s most successful brokers, Lou-ise was ranked in The Wall Street Journal’s top 50 brokers across the United States, and is one of the top 10 performing brokers in her firm. Louise’s impressive sales record includes selling two townhouses totaling $44,000,000, within 10 days of each other, and achieving the highest sale price, of $32,000,000, in Manhat-tan last year for a townhouse. louisebeit.com, 212.606.7703, [email protected]

FrEd WILLIamS joined Sotheby’s International Realty in 1997 and became a Senior Vice President, Associate Broker

after five years and was among So-theby’s International Realty’s top ten producers in 2011. He specializes in townhouse and building sales, draw-ing on his rigorous professional dis-cipline and breadth of experience. His experience as an architect greatly en-hances his ability to evaluate and an-alyze properties objectively, and ex-

plain market variables and property conditions clearly and reliably to prospective sellers. For more information, visit sothebyshomes.com

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FOr mOrE InFOrmaTIOn,

cOnTacT rOByn rEISS

aT 212.407.9382

Or [email protected]

SOThEBy’S InTErnaTIOnaL rEaLTy rOgEr ErIckSOn has been a top producing broker in Manhat-tan for over 20 years with sales in excess of a billion dollars. For the 3rd consecutive year, he has been recognized by The Wall Street Jour-nal, REAL Trends and lore Maga-zine as one of the Top 100 Agents in America by Sales Volume, currently ranked as the #4 agent in the nation. The prior year he was ranked as the #1 agent in Manhattan. www.roger-Erickson.com

vannESSa kaUFman joined Sotheby’s International Realty in 2009. Over the last two years, Van-nessa and her team have ranked in the top 50 amongst the country’s top 1,400 teams. Her dedication to the real estate profession during the most challenging economic climate in a generation has served

her and her clients very well. For more information, visit sothebyshomes.com

In 2001 SErEna BOardman started with Sotheby’s International Realty and is now the youngest Senior Vice President at the firm. Since that time she has sold in ex-cess of $800 million dollars of property and has consis-tently been ranked as a top producer. In 2008 the Wall Street Journal ranked Serena as the num-ber one broker in the Unit-ed States by sales volume. Serena works in the co-op, condominium and townhouse markets both on the Upper East Side and downtown. Fo-cusing on the sale of top-tier properties, Serena’s career highlights include achieving two record price sales of $48 million and $33 million for Fifth Avenue prewar coopera-tives and the sale of a landmark Park Avenue townhouse for $31.5 million. In each of these transactions, Serena represented the buyer and the seller.Serena [email protected]

TH_ADDIRECTORY_SPRING2012.indd 28 5/4/12 1:26:20 PM

No other New York broker has this track record.

• Paula represented the seller in the $53 million dollar sale of 4 East 75th Street, The Harkness Mansion, which still remains the record for the highest price paid for a townhouse in New York.

• No one else has sold 49 townhouses since 2006, for a total value of over $741 million.

• Paula has closed 19 townhouses measuring 25 feet or wider.

• Paula holds the record for the highest price paid for a 25-foot wide home with the $37.5 million dollar closing of 18 East 80th Street.

• In her 20 years as a townhouse specialist, Paula Del Nunzio has sold 88 townhouses.

PaULa deL NUNZioSenior Vice President, Managing DirectorLicensed Associate Real Estate [email protected] Park AvenueNew York, NY 10022

All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to Broker. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker.

n e w y o r k c i t y t h e h a m p t o n s p a l m b e a c h

the dUPLex at 998 FiFth aVeNUeFifth Avenue/80s. Extraordinary scale in only Stanford White co-op on Fifth. Massive living room and formal dining room, huge kitchen with two pantries. Washer/dryer. Four bedrooms plus library. Three wood burning fireplaces. Exquisite living. $20M. Web#1735509

ageLess desigN, eNdUriNg VaLUeEast 70s/Lexington. Skillful renovation of approximately 5,960 townhouse on prime East 71 block. Four outdoor spaces, elevator, five wood burning fireplaces, six bedrooms, six full baths, two half. Elegant and grand. $12.2M. Web#1225490

the art oF gracioUs LiViNgEast 60s/Lexington. Expertly sourced renovation of a 20 foot wide townhouse. Elevator, staff suite, stunning roof garden, two-story atrium, modern systems. Superb. $29.95M. Web#1275251



restoratioN at the osborNeRestored and renovated co-op. 13’6” ceilings and dramatic windows in living room, four wood burning fireplaces, Poggenpohl chef ’s kitchen, cebtral air conditioning. Two bedrooms, library, three and one-half baths. Expertly finished. $6.9M. Web#1067608

staNFord white MaNsioN oN FiFth aVeNUeEast 70s/Fifth. Brilliant scale and unparalleled details within approximately 15,225 square foot limestone mansion. Direct Central Park views from every room. Exceptional and rare. $49M. Web#1264274

aN artistic iNVestMeNtFifth Avenue/80s. Extraordinary full-floor corner cooperative on Fifth and 88th, overlooking Guggenheim, Central Park, Reservoir. Over four bedrooms, 11-foot ceilings, requires full renovation. $10M. Web#1546061

architectUre as artMeticulously sourced expert renovation of a 21 foot wide townhouse. Central Park views from roof garden, limestone façade, elevator, over six bedrooms. $23M. Web#1228425


No other New York broker has this track record.

• Paula represented the seller in the $53 million dollar sale of 4 East 75th Street, The Harkness Mansion, which still remains the record for the highest price paid for a townhouse in New York.

• No one else has sold 49 townhouses since 2006, for a total value of over $741 million.

• Paula has closed 19 townhouses measuring 25 feet or wider.

• Paula holds the record for the highest price paid for a 25-foot wide home with the $37.5 million dollar closing of 18 East 80th Street.

• In her 20 years as a townhouse specialist, Paula Del Nunzio has sold 88 townhouses.

PaULa deL NUNZioSenior Vice President, Managing DirectorLicensed Associate Real Estate [email protected] Park AvenueNew York, NY 10022



the dUPLex at 998 FiFth aVeNUeFifth Avenue/80s. Extraordinary scale in only Stanford White co-op on Fifth. Massive living room and formal dining room, huge kitchen with two pantries. Washer/dryer. Four bedrooms plus library. Three wood burning fireplaces. Exquisite living. $20M. Web#1735509

ageLess desigN, eNdUriNg VaLUeEast 70s/Lexington. Skillful renovation of approximately 5,960 townhouse on prime East 71 block. Four outdoor spaces, elevator, five wood burning fireplaces, six bedrooms, six full baths, two half. Elegant and grand. $12.2M. Web#1225490

the art oF gracioUs LiViNgEast 60s/Lexington. Expertly sourced renovation of a 20 foot wide townhouse. Elevator, staff suite, stunning roof garden, two-story atrium, modern systems. Superb. $29.95M. Web#1275251



restoratioN at the osborNeRestored and renovated co-op. 13’6” ceilings and dramatic windows in living room, four wood burning fireplaces, Poggenpohl chef ’s kitchen, cebtral air conditioning. Two bedrooms, library, three and one-half baths. Expertly finished. $6.9M. Web#1067608

staNFord white MaNsioN oN FiFth aVeNUeEast 70s/Fifth. Brilliant scale and unparalleled details within approximately 15,225 square foot limestone mansion. Direct Central Park views from every room. Exceptional and rare. $49M. Web#1264274

aN artistic iNVestMeNtFifth Avenue/80s. Extraordinary full-floor corner cooperative on Fifth and 88th, overlooking Guggenheim, Central Park, Reservoir. Over four bedrooms, 11-foot ceilings, requires full renovation. $10M. Web#1546061

architectUre as artMeticulously sourced expert renovation of a 21 foot wide townhouse. Central Park views from roof garden, limestone façade, elevator, over six bedrooms. $23M. Web#1228425


FRED WILLIAMS | E A S T 6 8 T H S T R E E T TOWNHOUSE OFF MADISON

FRED WILLIAMS | Senior Vice President, Associate BrokerT 212.606.7737 I [email protected]



Classic six story house with elevator, 22’ (+/-) wide and 11,000 S.F. (+/-), on an outstanding block with neighboring mansions. Currently 12 apartments gently used and impeccably maintained, the house will be delivered vacant and ready to transform into a magnificent and spacious single family residence. $21,000,000 WEB:NYO0018052

Untitled-5 1 5/3/12 10:21:21 AM

Not so Sly: Mr. Stone loses his townhouse.

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Love Me NotCourtney Love duked it out in court

with her landlord, Donna Lyon, earlier this year. Ms. Lyon claimed that the singer set the 19th century townhouse on fi re, ru-ined the décor and then fell behind on two month’s rent.

Ms. Love originally rented the

landmark West Village townhouse last February for $27,000 a month or $324,000 for the year and ran into some complications in the eleventh month. Ms. Lyon asked for the judge to evict Ms. Love on the basis that a candle set a cur-tain on fi re in the master bedroom and destroyed hand-fi nished walls. Ms. Lyon also claims that Ms. Love did not pay rent for the last two months for a total delinquency of $54,000.

The judge ruled in favor of Ms. Love’s motion to dismiss the case. Ms. Love left the apartment on February 14, per lease terms, and planned to move to a new downtown apartment.

Stone ColdSly Stone, the musi-

cian and songwriter most notably known for his role in developing soul, funk and psy-chedelic music, has lost owner-ship of his townhouse at 40

Bond Street. Mr. Stone bought the

townhouse in 2008 for $7,560,506, but fi nancial trouble

put it back on the market for $7,500,000 this past summer. A lien for $6,868,664 was set against the building. The

brewing lawsuit between Mr. Stone and his ex-manager stated that the former manager overstated the

performer’s assets. Meanwhile, the apartment slipped into foreclosure and was sold to a private

LLC with a Connecticut address for $4,500,000.

The townhouse, TH4, is now on the market again through Corcoran for $6,500,000.

Chopped to PiecesThe winner of Food Network’s

Chopped, Jackie Lee, wanted to take Goldman Sachs partner Timothy Kingston to the chopping board last month. Ms. Lee claimed that construction at Kingston’s 48 West 75th townhouse was obstructive.

Ms. Lee demanded that Mr. Kingston pay for alternative accommodations dur-ing construction. Mr. Kingston declined but installed soundproofi ng, air purifi ca-tion and even hired a cleaning crew.

Curry Commotion

Ann Curry, the face of the Today Show, has been in and

out of court for the past eight years over her townhouse on the

Upper West Side. Ms. Curry just wanted to renovate the home, but has managed to annoy several of her neighbors.

It started years ago when neigh-bors fi led a lawsuit against the TV

journalist for dangerous, unsafe and ille-gal construction on her rooftop addition. The suit claimed that there was exces-sive noise and dust, 7a.m. start times and weekend work which disturbed everyone nearby. Allegedly, the construction forced one 25-year tenant to move out after a year of the conditions.

It didn’t help last summer when a homeless man was kicked o� the prop-erty. The man, who remained unnamed, claimed to have squatted there on and o� for the past year. He o� ered to take care of the townhouse in return for liv-ing in it.

Ms. Curry lives in Gramercy with her family and the renovations on their Upper West Side townhouse remain unfi nished.


WALLS COULD TALK WALLS COULD TALK

SC AN DALS

Michael Ewing divulges on New York’s most tantalizing townhouse gossip

Ms. Love strikes a pose.

Ann Curry isn’t smiling

now.

TH_SCANDALS_SPRIN2012.indd 32 5/4/12 2:18:51 PM


renovations

Corcoran Group Senior Vice President Tatiana Cames sees Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill, Fort Greene,

Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights as having the most up-side for townhouse investors looking to renovate.


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la fanion.indd 1 5/3/12 5:47:47 PM

ROGER ERICKSON | EAST 74TH TOWNHOUSE OFF MADISON AVENUE

ROGER ERICKSON | Senior Managing Director, Associate BrokerT 212.606.7612 I [email protected] | www.roger-erickson.com



Historical townhouse situated on East 74th St between Madison and Park Avenues. Grand and gracious, it offers amazing space on its 5 floors plus basement. Incredible original details and woodwork, important block. $15,000,000. WEB: NYO0017688

Untitled-5 1 5/3/12 10:21:07 AM


apartments are selling at over $2,000 per square foot in these areas. However, you can find luxury finished townhouses at levels well under that, averaging around $1,800 per square foot. Raw townhouses are often found under that at under $1,000 per square foot.”

Investors seeking to replicate Ms. Cames mind-boggling success need only look to an outer borough. In fact, that’s what Ms. Cames is doing herself. She has two restoration projects in Brooklyn where she thinks “the numbers work a lot better.” She suggests that future ho-meowners and real estate investors look there as well.

“I like Clinton Hill, Fort Greene, Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights. That’s where I’m see-ing the most upside right now,” Ms. Cam-

es said. “You have tremendous cap rates in some of these neighborhoods and in resale—the values are increasing still tre-mendously from one year to another be-cause the neighborhoods are developing so quickly.”

But delving into a townhouse restora-tion project isn’t a decision to be made lightly. It’s a process that requires focus, attention to detail and organization. Slop-piness and laziness will almost inevitably lead to longer turnaround times, missed problems, more expenses or could even cause the whole deal to fall through and your almost-home to disappear. Having the right people is crucial as well.

“Really do your due diligence on the architect and general contractor. Design-build firms can also streamline the pro-

cess,” Doug Bowen, Senior Vice President and Associate Broker at CORE, said. “Just as you would get competitive bids from a plumber or an electrician, you want to do your homework on the person who you are entrusting to captain your ship for a multi-month to multi-year long process. Most importantly, choose someone who you think will be fun to work with.”

Even the most careful planning and re-search doesn’t account for everything.

“Cost never stops being a surprise,” Billy Morrissette, a seasoned investor who’s owned, restored and lived in his-toric townhouses and lofts in NYC, as well as properties in Los Angeles, said. “I just re-did a friend’s small bathroom in the Lower East Side, and even picking the lowest cost items we could, the price

renovations

Before and after shots depicting two of Mr. Morrissette’s New York residences. Top: His gut renovation of a townhouse on South Oxford Street in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene. Below: Mr. Morrissette’s former loft in Soho, which

was featured in The New York Times after being renovated.



Paula Del NuNzio has spe-cialized in townhouses, penthous-es, and “townhouse equivalent” spaces for over 20 years. Since just 2006, Paula has closed over $741 million in only her 49 townhouse sales, and concluded 5 sales over $40 million, including the record sale of the Harkness Mansion at 4 East 75th Street for $53 million dollars. Paula has sold 89 townhouses in her career for a total value of approximately $1.5bn in volume. For more information, visit www.bhsusa.com

Specializing in the marketing of premier residential prop-erties, CoRe offers comprehensive real estate solutions for buyers, sellers, investors and developers. Headquar-tered in New York City, CORE is a dynamic, boutique bro-kerage informed by expertise and driven by innovation. CORE’s team of accomplished professionals specializes in all neighborhoods of Manhattan, as well as Brooklyn, where Senior Vice President, Doug Bowen, is a borough specialist.For more information on our services please visit www.corenyc.com.

62 BeTHuNe STReeT is the last Superior Ink townhouse available for sale. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, LLP and developed by Related Companies, this exceptional home is a unique townhouse offering historically inspired architecture and the opportunity to customize ones own

interior finishes while en-joying access to the unpar-alleled services and ame-nities of the renowned Superior Ink Condomini-um. Featuring over 4,800 square feet of grand liv-ing space and over 1,600 square feet of private out-

door space- all just steps from Hudson River Park, 62 Bet-hune includes an interior elevator, private indoorparking garage access and use of all Superior Ink Condominium amenities, services and staff. For more information or to schedule a viewing,call 212.488.0012 or visit somethingsuperior.com.

For nearly a century, PRuDeNTial DouglaS ellimaN has been recognized as a leader in the residential real estate indus-try. With more that 3,500 agents and over 60 offices from Man-hattan to Montauk, the company’s reach is surpassed. Prudential Douglas Elliman offers its customers a comprehensive array of services including residential sales and rental brokerage, retail and commercial sales & leasing, relocation, new development marketing, property management, mortgage brokerage and title insurance. So whether you’re in the Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester or Long Island, including the Hamptons and North Fork, there is a Prudential Douglas Elliman office and agent ready to assist you in any of your real estate needs.Please contact 1.800.ellimaN or visit elliman.com

TaliN eSHagHoFF SaRRaF comes from a world of Inter-national Market Research, Public Relations and Real Estate Management where she specialized in pricing and promotions. After complet-ing her MBA she has published several articles in leading international busi-ness journals regarding shifting markets and capitalizing on those changes. Over the past 16 years she has been a Real Es-tate Professional for top tier living. Her discretion, loyalty and dedication and market knowledge is much appreciated among her clientele. Talin is Real Estate’s best kept secret re-ferred among the city’s most affluent residents and investors.

TowN is a Manhattan-based real estate services firm specializ-ing in luxury sales, rentals and new development marketing. Our representatives are leaders in the industry who are recognized for their in-depth market knowl-edge and focus on high-level cus-tomer service.

Founded in 2010 by an expe-rienced team of industry lead-ers, Town has quickly emerged as a dynamic and respected brand in New York real estate. Its founding members are a close-knit group of innovators with formidable track records in all aspects of residential real estate.For more information, please visit www.townrealestate.com

BRETT MILESSenior Vice President

O: (646) [email protected]

FRANK ARENDSSenior Vice President


TERRY NAINISenior Vice President


TOWN Residential, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and proud member of REBNY. Town Residential LLC is a partnership with Thor Equities LLC. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

The seven story Townhouse at 45 East 74th Street is representative of architectural craftsmaship and design that pays homage to the classic sense of style and elegance characteristic of the historic Upper East Side.

The townhouse, perfectly positioned on a prime residential block between Park and Madison Avenues, is nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s historic Gold Coast. Originally constructed in 1879, a century later, this spectacular home has been dramatically reinvented and technologically transformed into one of the world’s most beautiful residences. Priced at $33 Million Web ID: 935757

AdPageSetup.indd 2 5/2/12 5:27 PM

ad directory

TH_ADDIRECTORY_SPRING2012.indd 30 5/7/12 1:46:39 PM

The Privacy You Desire The Conveniences You Need

62 Bethune Street – Superior Living in the West Village

Superior Ink Condominium

This exceptional home is the last Superior Ink townhouse available for sale. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, LLP and developed by Related Companies, 62 Bethune Street enjoys all the amenities of the renowned Superior Ink Condominium.

Townhouse Features & Amenities:• 4,865 square feet of grand living space- architect/decorator ready• 1,642 square feet of outdoor space – private backyard garden and rooftop terrace• 7 bedrooms, 6 full baths and powder room • Wood burning fireplaces, Interior elevators• Interior access to Superior Ink Garage and all amenities• Pre-wired infrastructure for “Smart Home” and video answering service provided by

Superior Ink concierge

priced at $14 million.

For more information or to schedule a viewing, call 212.488.0012 or visit somethingsuperior.com.

Sponsor: Bethune West Associates, L.L.C., c/o The Related Companies, L.P., 60 Columbus Circle, New York, New York 10023. The complete offering terms are in an Offering Plan available from Sponsor. File No. CD07-0293.

Untitled-3 1 5/2/12 5:22:57 PM

BRETT MILESSenior Vice President


FRANK ARENDSSenior Vice President


TERRY NAINISenior Vice President


TOWN Residential, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and proud member of REBNY. Town Residential LLC is a partnership with Thor Equities LLC. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

The seven story Townhouse at 45 East 74th Street is representative of architectural craftsmaship and design that pays homage to the classic sense of style and elegance characteristic of the historic Upper East Side.

The townhouse, perfectly positioned on a prime residential block between Park and Madison Avenues, is nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s historic Gold Coast. Originally constructed in 1879, a century later, this spectacular home has been dramatically reinvented and technologically transformed into one of the world’s most beautiful residences. Priced at $33 Million Web ID: 935757

AdPageSetup.indd 2 5/2/12 5:27 PM

Market Beat

6 Owners discover the value of townhouses where the demand remains strong

Crazy Cribs

10 Pools, gyms, libraries, wine cellars—these townhouses have it all

Home Improvements

18 Ben Weitzenkorn discusses the process of gut renovations, landmark restorations and the benefi ts of an upgrade

Delightful Décor

24 What our interior design connoisseurs know that you don’t

Last Word

32 Michael Ewing dishes on New York’s townhouse gossip

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE NEW YORK OBSERVER321 WEST 44TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10036

212.755.2400WWW.OBSERVER.cOm

ON THE COVER22 EAST 71ST STREETSERENA BOARDMAN, 212.606.7611MEREDYTH HULL SMITH, 212.606.7683SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

PHOTOGRAPHY LOREN WOHL

Publisher JARED KUSHNER

Editorial Director ELIZABETH SPIERS

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Executive V.P. BARRY LEWIS

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EDITORBENJAMIN-ÉMILE LE HAY

ART DIRECTORLAUREN DRAPER

CONTRIBUTORSELYSE ADLER

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ERICA MARTNBEN WEITZENKORN

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ADVERTISING PRODUCTION LISA MEDCHILL


THE ESSENTIAL RESOURCE FOR THE DISCERNING TOWNHOUSE BUYER


Buying Over Renting

Is the Smart Choice+

Amazing Luxurious Amenities

That Marvel+

Tackling Renovations

+Tonwhouse

Scandals

SPRING 2012

COVER PHOTO22 East 71st StreetSerena Boardman, 212.606.7611Meredyth Hull Smith, 212.606.7683Sotheby’s International Realty, Page xx

THE ESSENTIAL RESOURCE FOR THE DISCERNING TOWNHOUSE BUYER

SPRING 2012

1024

18

6

TH_TOC/MAST_SPRING2012.indd 4 5/4/12 1:23:11 PM

LOUISE BEIT | 116 EAST 70TH STREET

LOUISE BEIT | Senior Vice President, Associate BrokerT 212.606.7703 I [email protected] | www.louisebeit.com



116 E 70TH STREET: Extraordinarily beautiful townhouse in triple mint condition located on the most celebrated block on the Upper East Side. Glorious living room with 12’ ceiling, elegant library, dining room with south terrace, 5 bedrooms, chef’s kitchen, elevator, and garden. Offered at $22,500,000. WEB: NYO0017310

Untitled-5 1 5/3/12 10:20:30 AM


renovations

uying a townhouse is a monumental and exciting de-cision—especially in New York City. The housing stock here is gorgeous, varied and historic. Townhouses tell the stories of their neighborhoods. Archi-tectural clues reveal some sur-prising past uses and tenants.

Owning and living in a historic townhouse is a tangible way of linking to New York’s history. It can also be a great investment.

Tatiana Cames, Senior Vice President at Corcoran Group Real Estate, bought her first townhouse in the West Village on Grove Street in 1992 for—wait for it—a jaw dropping $700,000. It was a combined affinity for the Village and a business sav-vy that attracted Ms. Cames to her Grove Street investment. The bohemian vibe and roughness of the neighborhood meant more square footage was more affordable than many other traditional Manhattan

neighborhoods. That also meant the build-ing wasn’t perfect. Ms. Cames had issues getting the ruffian tenants out before she could even begin the restoration work.

“It was eight units and some of them were in really bad condition and the build-ing itself—the facade was blue—they had tried to do this New Orleans thing with blue and black and white checkered lino-leum inside,” Ms. Cames said. “Everything was painted blue and white. It was hard to see past [with] what was done to it.”

But, she said, she’s definitely glad she did. “Quite a good investment,” she com-mented. After living at her Grove Street address for over two decades, Ms. Cames sold it for $8.25 million last year. No, Ms. Cames can’t predict the future; she just saw what looked like a smart buy and took the plunge.

“It was about the value. Buildings were still under a million—probably between five and nine at that time. It was really the

bottom of the market and for the same price range you could get maybe a two-bedroom otherwise,” Ms. Cames said. “It was a time when the income could really pay a lot of the expenses. Taxes were low and obviously a mortgage on something under a million—you could definitely ab-sorb a lot of your expenses through rent-ing part of the house. That’s no longer the case in the Village.”

That last fact is bemoaned by many who were either too young or too slow to take advantage of the real estate opportuni-ties that, in hindsight, were no-brainers. Ms. Cames believes that in Manhattan, the deals to be had already have been—but with a little bit of digging, Talin Sarraf, a licensed real estate salesperson with Pru-dential Douglas Elliman, thinks a deter-mined buyer can eke out a great deal.

“Some hidden gems in Manhattan will include the Upper West Side,” he said. “There is also Chelsea ... Luxury

With a little bit of risk can come much reward

Ben Weitzenkorn



marke t report

of townhouses as cultural New York land-marks. These sales also highlight the tendency of prices to shoot upward based on the associations of a building rather than the size or quality of the building, although these properties undoubtedly finished strong in all three categories. Mr. Bowen placed them in the context of the townhouse market as a whole: “These are big numbers, but outliers; the real story is in the increased demand for the stock townhouses in prime neighborhoods.”

Many of these neighborhoods are in Brooklyn, which Mr. Bowen calls the “boom borough.” Brooklyn has a much larger supply of townhouses than Manhattan does. The growth of the town-house market in the borough shares many characteristics with the growth that the Manhattan market has seen over the past 20 years. The high selling price of the Truman Capote property, as well as Sarah Jessica Parker’s and Mathew Broderick’s recent move to a Brooklyn townhouse, indicate a trend of luxury townhouse sales in the borough to complement the trend

A view of the terrace at 400 West Street from the living room.

The façade of 283 East 4th Street.



of more desirable and perhaps afford-able buildings.

According to Brett Miles, Senior Vice President and Associate Broker at Town Residential, certain Manhattan neigh-borhoods continue to be highly coveted. The Upper East Side, especially west of Lexington and below 85th Street, and the West Village are the neighborhoods most currently in demand. The Upper West Side has also seen a rise in town-house sales, Mr. Miles said, with proximity to the park playing a major role in the pricing. A $22 million townhouse on Central Park West recently broke the record price for the Upper West Side. Mr. Miles predicts a con-tinued “price up-tick” in Upper West Side townhouses that can offer proximity to Central Park as a perk.

The neighborhoods of Clinton, Hell’s Kitchen, Chelsea, and Murray Hill offer more moderately priced townhouses with many around $3 million. Mr. Miles explained that most of these townhouses require some renovation, but putting in the work could be well worth it in the long run.

“By putting in another $1-1.5 million, cre-ating a great product and then holding on to it for four or five years, I think there is a good chance you could double your money on the right property,” Mr. Miles said.

Some buyers who renovate their town-houses, according to Mr. Bowen, make restorations for a nostalgic feel that recalls a luxurious history, others embark upon a completely modern makeover. According to Wolf Jakubowski, Senior Vice President and Managing Director at Brown Harris Stevens, the last year has seen “an inva-sion of developers,” many of whom are new to Manhattan real estate, buying up vacant townhouses in prime locations

and offering them up as new single family homes after complete interior renovations and modernizations.

“Some of these developers are excel-lent at what they do, others are lost,” Mr. Jakubowski said.

Architect Alexander Gorlin has called this renovation phenomenon “The New American Townhouse,” and although it distances townhouses from their history, a modern renovation gives buyers the best amenities and most comfortable space while maintaining the unique exterior of the house and its prime location.

“When it is done right, it is magical,” said Mr. Bowen of modern renovations.

RISE IN FOREIGN buy-ers has ushered in an era of globalization in the Manhattan townhouse market, according to Nikki Field, Senior Vice President at Sotheby’s International Realty. Ms. Field cites Russian, Chinese and

Brazilian clients as those most able to outdo American buyers in terms of closing speed and “offering an ‘all cash’ advan-tage.” Because the US real estate economy is still getting back on its feet, foreign buy-ers sometimes end up competing with each other for a desirable property. This hap-pened most recently at 815 5th Avenue, a townhouse with a starting price of $25 mil-lion. “Within a few days, a surge of offers resulted in a last and best international play-ers shoot-out,” said Ms. Field about the 5th Avenue building. “The rumored Brazilian winners secured the property significantly over the asking price.”

Louise Beit, also a Senior Vice President at Sotheby’s International Realty, noted a trend of billionaires from other nations looking for townhouses in Manhattan, especially in the past five weeks.

“Wealthy internationals are eager to deposit liquid assets in Manhattan,” Ms. Beit said.

Plenty of townhouses remain available

for domestic buyers, of course, but there have been some quick and competitive purchases in recent weeks. “We are see-ing houses sold in less than two weeks if priced accurately, on a good block and delivered vacant,” said Stan Ponte, Senior Vice President and Associate Broker at Sotheby’s International Realty. He men-tioned a high demand for single-family homes in traditional townhouse neighbor-hoods, which makes sense considering the trend of developers renovating townhouses for clients looking for just such properties. The demand for townhouses in more “up-and-coming” areas, like Hell’s Kitchen, is also increasing.

A townhouse is often considered part of the luxury real estate market, but it can be a valuable investment in terms of both mone-tary savings and lifestyle improvements.

“A townhouse offers the largest amount of square feet at the lowest price per square foot of any housing available in New York,” said Paula Del Nunzio, Senior Vice President and Managing Director at Brown Harris Stevens. The opportu-nity for personalization and freedom that comes with owning a townhouse is also a major selling point.

“Townhouses attract a very different clientele,” said Lisa Simonsen, Senior Vice President and head of the Simonsen Group at Prudential Douglas Elliman. “People who desire the privacy of townhouses do not want the intrusion of a doorman, [or] other people living in their building. And, they want the freedom to create a living space that suits their personal needs with-out the restrictions of a board.”

In some ways, the appeal of a townhouse remains the same as it was for 18th century English noblemen; townhouses combine the convenience and cultural involvement of city living with the comfort, space and luxury that an apartment or condo may not be able to provide.

“Townhouses tell great stories and their history fascinates people,” said Mr. Bowen. “There is a romance to living in a town-house that is undeniable.”

MARKE T REPORT

A

A townhouse offers the largest amount

of square feet at the lowest price

per square foot of any housing

available in New York.

Superior Ink townhouses on Bethune Street.



interior gu rus

50, after graduating from Stanford Uni-versity with a double major in architecture and business. The firm offers clients the chance to discuss their ideas with the de-signer. For $50 you receive a 50-minute con-sultation session.

Mr. Santos’ clientele is much younger than most owners of townhouses. He con-siders his style “shabby chic” but doesn’t believe that interior designers are god-like.

“We want the interior to really reflect our clients’ personality. We like to give the cli-ent control. We ask how quickly they want to work and their budget. It is really about the story you want to tell. Coming into a home is like meeting someone for the first time,” Mr. Santos said.

Mr. Santos has a passion for vintage piec-es. He has his own house painters and work-ers, but for the furniture he looks to several different places. These include the City Op-era thrift shop, Olde Good Things, which “has one of the largest inventories of unique and antique architectural items,” and an-tique garage flea markets in Chelsea and Brooklyn.

“There is such a great amount of quality pieces there. For me, I think an interior is less about a specific style and more about putting together a mix of styles to keep your interior timeless. I think that is what young people appreciate,” Mr. Santos said.

‘We want the interior to really reflect

our clients’ personality. We like to give the

client control.’

Mr. Santos poses in a space he furnished.

TH_INTERIORGURU_SPRIN2012.indd 26 5/4/12 1:40:26 PM


The state-of-the-art gym at Superior Ink.

and owners now include Marc Jacobs and Hilary Swank.

62 Bethune Street, Superior Ink’s only re-maining townhouse on the market, was de-signed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, LLP and encompasses over 4,800 square feet of living space, with an impressive 1,600 square feet of private outdoor space. 62 Bet-hune includes an interior elevator, private indoor parking garage access and use of all Superior Ink.

“62 Bethune Street offers the rare opportunity to purchase a townhouse that pays homage to the storied his-tory of the West Village while provid-ing a lifestyle offering modern luxu-ries including interior elevators, wood burning fireplaces, a private backyard

garden [and] a rooftop terrace,” com-mented Leslie Wilson, Senior Vice President of Related Sales and Director of Sales for Superior Ink.

can be difficult for some prospective buy-ers to pass up on the many deluxe services and amenities that most luxury condo buildings offer. Parking garages,

pools, in-house fitness centers, theaters, play rooms are just a few enticements that often sway on-the-fence buyers toward purchasing a condo. Consequently, more and more townhouse real estate investors are upping the ante with incredible ameni-

ties to match the golden standard.For New Yorker buyers requiring addi-

tional security for their home, Nikki Field, The Field Team’s Senior Vice President and Associate Broker at Sotheby’s Internation-al Realty, recommends a townhome op-tion with a private doorman. “20 East 65th street, a 25ft mansion divided into two su-per trophy homes, is incorporated as a con-dominium with management and services, yet offers the grand and private life style that private home owners require,” she said.

In addition, Ms. Field elaborates that the top unit at 20 East 65th comes equipped with an exquisite rooftop terrace. Every agent knows a spectacular view can be key to completing the sale.

“Views are a real rarity in townhouses

Luxu ry com forts

116 West 71st Street boasts its very own spa and sauna.

IT

TH_AMENITIES_SPRIN2012.indd 12 5/4/12 1:24:13 PM

LUXU RY COM FORTS


HOMESTHATHAVE IT ALL

A private pool is a big pull for buyers. Take a dip in your very own at 45 East 74 Street.


M A N H AT TA N | B R O O K LY N | Q U E E N S | L O N G I S L A N D | T H E H A M P T O N S | T H E N O R T H F O R K | R I V E R D A L E | W E S T C H E S T E R / P U T N A M | F L O R I D A

256 WEST 4TH STREETWest Village | $5,300,000 | Little West Village jewel. 15-ft 4-story single family townhouse built in 1877 in late French Second Empire style, retains much of its original detail. Web# 1352720. Jan Hashey, Managing Director 212.206.2804 | Steve Halprin 212.206.2803

STUNNING TOWNHOUSE TRIPLE MINTWest 10th Street | $10,995,000 | Extraordinarily beautiful townhouse in triple mint condition, renovated to the highest standards. 22-ft wide, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Amazing garden, terraces and roofdeck. Great investment. Web# 1406682. Eileen Foy, SVP 212.891.7284

3 RIVERVIEW TERRACESutton Place | $10,000,000 | Positioned on a private, gated, cobblestone street off Sutton Square/East 58th Street, exceptional townhouse commands spectacular park and river views from every floor. Web# 1165432. Michael Moran, EVP 917.747.7643 | Matthew George, SVP 917.519.0921

MUST SEE BEAUTYHamilton Heights | $3,500,000 | Spectacular in every way. Grand living space, formal dining room, chef’s kitchen, master bedroom suite with professionally organized dress room and spa like bath, 4.5 baths, 8 gas fireplaces, central A/C, and sound system. Web# 1455009. Michael Rosenblum 212.769.6541 | Sandy Gansberg 212.769.6548

NEW ON THE MARKETFar West Village | $10,900,000 | Spectacular very large apartment in historic condo loft building. 3,500 sf duplex with 18-ft ceilngs in the Salon, double row of South windows. Plus 2,215 sf open space for studio/showroom, Combined. Web# 1462901. Jan Hashey, Managing Director 212.206.2804

UNIQUE VILLAGE HOMEGreenwich Village West | $8,000,000 | Very special 1852 home located on quiet and charming street. 5-story brick townhouse. Sunny, high ceilings, 3 wood burning fireplaces, fabulous kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Bleecker Garden gem. Web# 1459262. Karen Hartnett 646.522.0688

©

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ou may think it is about style. You may think it is about mon-ey. But, really, the renovation of a townhouse, according to several of New York’s interior

designers, is all about comfort. Francis D’Haene started his own inte-

rior design firm, D’Apostrophe Design, in 1996. Mr. D’Haene, who studied ar-chitecture in Brussels, does everything from gutting a townhouse to redesign-

ing bathrooms. Though Mr. D’Haene en-joys working on apartments, he loves townhouse projects because they in-volve an entire structure.

“It’s a different way of living, verti-cal living, and it is more like a house. You don’t have to take upstairs or down-stairs neighbors into account. It is its own little structure,” Mr. D’Haene said.

Mr. D’Haene’s style is “modern con-temporary” and he enjoys creating in-

viting homes. He creates townhouses mostly for families.

“They are always warm and comfort-able. The kind of houses where any-body who goes in there feels good,” Mr. D’Haene said.

But Mr. D’Haene is not the only de-signer in town who feels that way.

Interior designer Noa Santos has his own firm, but with a creative new twist. Mr. Santos created his company, 50 for


reinventing your townhouse

Design tips from two of New York’s interior design stars

By Jennifer Maas

y

interior gu rus

Mr. D’Haene says his designs ‘are always warm and comfortable.’

TH_INTERIORGURU_SPRIN2012.indd 24 5/4/12 11:06:18 AM


Paula Del Nunzio, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Brown Harris Stevens, said it best: “A townhouse offers the largest amount of square feet at the lowest price per

square foot of any housing available in New York.” Thus sets the theme for our spring issue of Townhouse. On pages 6-8, Erica Martin explains why the market is so sturdy and why investing in a townhouse might be the smartest move a buyer can make. Amenities are limitless if your budget is sky-high. From wine

cellars to indoor pools and gyms, Annie Cusick checks out how townhouse pads like 45 East 74th Street and Superior Ink are tricked out (pages 10-12). Next, Ben Weitzenkorn walks us through the extensive process of renovating a

townhouse: what it entails, tricks of the trade and how it just may be less of a headache than you had assumed. Find out what the experts he spoke with had to say on pages 18-22. We opened our rolodex of interior design mavens and architects to Jennifer Maas. They gave her a little schooling; get the décor savoir-faire on pages 24-26. Michael Ewing has the last word, delivering up a tantalizing account of drama in realty land, with our dose of townhouse scandal on page 32.

“There is a romance to living in a townhouse that is undeniable,” believes Doug Bowen, Senior Vice President of CORE. We hope you agree!

Happy Reading,Benjamin-Émile Le Hay

EDITOR ’ S NOTE

The terrace of 116 West 71st Street.

TH_EDNOTE_SPRING2012.indd 2 5/4/12 10:08:27 AM

Townhouse Spring 2012

Documents

Transcript of Townhouse Spring 2012