If walls could talk, this townhouse would whisper tales of high society, bravery, and espionage. From the home’s circa-1910 roots and Upper East Side location to its double-height ceilings and views of the St. Jean Baptiste Church, this residence is the epitome of classic Manhattan sophistication and has quite a story to tell.
A Yorkville brewmaster built the 6,691-square-foot Lenox Hill townhouse as part of a set of four for his children, connecting them all with hidden doors according to legend. Later in the home’s life, it was owned by John Felix Charles Bryce, a former British intelligence officer and good friend of James Bond creator Ian Fleming. Bryce was the inspiration for Bond’s best friend, Felix Leiter, and also owned a New York country estate where Fleming penned some Bond novels. Bryce’s wife, Josephine “Jo” Hartford Bryce, was an A&P heiress, pilot, pianist, and renowned hostess whose former husbands ranged from spy to prince. Her brother, art collector and businessman Huntington Hartford, was a frequent guest and 161 E. 74th Street became a hub for soirées and high society gatherings.
Although the townhouse might not come with an Aston Martin, it does boast six stories, six wood-burning fireplaces, a rooftop deck, and a greenhouse. It’s current owner, and his brave ancestors, also add to the property’s lore.
Today, renowned plastic surgeon Z. Paul Lorenc owns the home. His parents’ heroic efforts to rescue Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto earned them recognition as Righteous Among the Nations at Yad Vashem. After nearly 30 years, Lorenc is ready to pass the keys, listing the home at $9.5 million. He originally bought the house for $1.6 million in 1995 and once sought $17 million when he previously listed it in 2009, according to the New York Post.
Beyond its stories, the home’s architecture brings much to the table with intricate crown moldings, grand archways, and a sweeping staircase. Though, it has been clearly brightened up and modernized. A soft, neutral color palette enhances the flood of natural light, while deep wood tones in the flooring and built-in shelving bring warmth and richness. There’s also a total of 1,200-square-foot exterior space across the decks and garden.
Located just steps away from Central Park and Museum Mile, the pricey UES gem would appeal to many. Victoria Vinokur of Brown Harris Stevens holds the listing.
