A Rare Offering at 15 West 81st Street - Grand Maisonette Duplex by Emery Roth
4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms / 1 Powder Room / Wine Cellar / Over 4,000 sqft (Approx).
A unique opportunity to experience townhouse-style living with the full services of a white-glove cooperative-welcome to Residence 1D/2D at 15 West 81st Street. Originally crafted by legendary architect Emery Roth, this impeccably renovated 11-room duplex offers sweeping views of the Rose Planetarium and the American Museum of Natural History.
Perfectly situated on the first and second floors of one of the Upper West Side's most distinguished prewar buildings, this magnificent home offers the best of both worlds: a grand-scale classic six above a sprawling, private maisonette. Filled with natural light from expansive south-facing windows, the residence is a masterclass in proportion, scale, and timeless sophistication.
The interior was designed by renowned designer Michael Simon, with architecture by David Hotson, and construction meticulously executed by Stern Projects. Every inch of this home reflects an extraordinary level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and aesthetic vision. Custom lighting is thoughtfully integrated throughout, enhancing the ambiance of each space.
Upper Level: Classic Elegance & Expansive Light
The upper floor is accessed via a semi-private elevator landing that opens to a gracious marble-clad gallery. A sweeping staircase elegantly connects the two levels of the home. On the southern end, a sun-drenched 16' x 28' living room offers panoramic views over the Rose Planetarium. This stately space accommodates multiple seating areas, with space for baby grand piano, and features a decorative fireplace.
Opposite the living room, the formal dining room spans 14' x 18', ideal for large-scale entertaining. A discreetly located powder room sits perfectly between the formal spaces. The windowed eat-in kitchen is a chef's dream, anchored by a built-in banquette and custom millwork. Outfitted with solid wood cabinetry, stone countertops and backsplash, and top-of-the-line appliances-including a Viking range, vented Miele hood, oversized Sub-Zero refrigerator, and Miele dishwasher-no detail has been overlooked.
The primary suite is a light-filled, airy retreat facing south, offering warmth and sunlight throughout the day. Thoughtfully appointed with custom millwork, a built-in storage closet, and generous proportions, it provides a serene and elegant escape. The luxurious en-suite bath is clad in floor-to-ceiling marble and features a double vanity, deep soaking tub, oversized rain shower, and timeless brass fixtures.
The custom Art Deco-inspired library is wrapped in high-gloss lacquered millwork with inlaid detailing, grounded by a luminous gold-leaf ceiling and ambient backlit shelving. A stunning verre glomis mirrored panel conceals a built-in television, etched with whimsical underwater motifs and framed in polished bronze. This atmospheric retreat is both sculptural and functional-perfect for reading, work, or quiet reflection.
Maisonette Level: Townhouse Comfort Meets Entertainer's Dream
The lower level, accessed either via the interior staircase or a separate private entrance from the street, offers true townhouse functionality and discretion. A sprawling great room easily accommodates billiards, game tables, and lounge seating. Hidden within is a sleek wet bar with a Sub-Zero wine fridge, ideal for entertaining in style. A gym and screening room is outfitted with a built-in projector and screen-designed for movie nights, workouts, or immersive media experiences. This level is truly an entertainer's dream. Three generously sized bedrooms with fully renovated en-suite baths offer floor-to-ceiling marble finishes and high-end fixtures. A separate staff room with en-suite bath, a full laundry room, and abundant storage complete this level.
Additional features include central air conditioning, solid oak flooring, tall ceilings with recessed lighting, custom moldings and millwork throughout, and a full Crestron system for integrated AV and lighting.
An alternative configuration could comfortably accommodate up to five bedrooms-please consult with your architect.
The Building
Designed in 1930 by Emery Roth-alongside his other iconic works, the San Remo and Beresford-15 West 81st Street is a premier neo-Renaissance cooperative located just off Central Park West. The building features a magnificent Italian Renaissance-style lobby with marble details and a central fountain.
Amenities include a 24-hour doorman and full-service staff, state-of-the-art fitness center, playroom, bike room, and private storage.
Fifty percent financing is permitted. There is a two percent flip tax payable by the purchaser.
This exceptional residence offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to live in a home that combines prewar grandeur, modern luxury, and unbeatable proximity to Central Park, world-class cultural institutions, and the very best of the Upper West Side.
