In the heart of New York City, it can be easy to yearn for the slow pace of the countryside at times. On West 75th Street, where pre-war brick and brownstones line the street, it’s a surprise that this full-floor penthouse unfolds with an aesthetic harkening to a French cottage or Mediterranean villa. Brimming details like blue exterior shutters, wood beams, double glass doors, and a clawfoot tub, it provides a European countryside sensibility rarely found atop Manhattan buildings.
Designed by architect George F. Pelham, the circa-1920 high-rise has 38 units across ten stories. Pelham’s austere but tasteful style can be seen in buildings throughout the Upper West Side, Morningside Heights, and Washington Heights. Topping the structure, the penthouse unfolds with limestone floors and reclaimed barn beams. The warm interior also has subtle touches of blue and yellow laced into the fabrics of the furniture throughout the living area, giving a delightfully coastal feel. Vintage elements in the powder room, like the herringbone walnut floors and a leaded glass window inset with rough-cut stone, lean into a more rustic and romantic design. After an elegant renovation, a 150-wine cooler, a backup Sub-Zero undercounter refrigerator, and a treadmill were added.
Outdoors, the space continues its French charm feel with blue accents and a striped awning. A second private terrace, with a swing, is off the primary bedroom. There are three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, as well as an additional half bath. That’s not bad for the $3.75 million price tag, which is comparable to smaller or less lofty apartments downtown.
Lisa K. Lippman and Gerard “Scott” Moore of Brown Harris Stevens share the listing.
