Explore a Restored Gilded Age Townhouse on the Upper East Side Listed for $68M

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The Upper East Side is speckled with grand, expensive townhouses. This one, now on the market for $68 million, is no exception—and has quite the history. Railroad industrialist Henry H. Cook purchased the entire block between East 78th and 79th Streets and Fifth and Madison Avenues and sold each lot to prominent families at the time. Businessman James E. Nichols acquired 4 East 79th Street and commissioned architect C.P.H. Gilbert to build this limestone townhouse in 1898.

In 2023, the mansion was listed for $65 million following the passing of its owner, late businessman Aso O. Tavitian, and records show it sold in September of 2024 for $56 million. That pricing may be reflective of some key renovations.

In 2025, the home received new security, temperature, audio, and lighting systems, plus a brand-new kitchen and bathrooms. But, years ago, Tavitian especially put substantial care into the Gilded Age manse, working with architects Peter Pennoyer (who is no stranger to updating historic townhouses), Theodore Prudon, and interior designer John McCall to rebuild and restore the residence with period accuracy.

The home’s 35-foot-wide facade sits among good company just steps from Central Park. With exposure from three sides, light floods the 15,000 square feet of interiors. There are six levels of pure luxury holding six bedrooms, plus a lower level (with a service kitchen, gym, and laundry room) and a rooftop terrace. Striking design moments include a grand entry foyer, a soaring staircase with a detailed skylight, a colorful bunk room, and a peaceful primary suite with intricate details and a spacious closet.

Up there in price with NYC homes owned by Rupert Murdoch, this townhouse is clearly for the 1%, ultra-wealthy. Joshua Hardman of Sotheby’s International Realty represents the pricey Manhattan property.