39 East 79th Street is a distinguished 14-story, 21-unit prewar cooperative located in the heart of the Upper East Side, just off Madison Avenue and one block from Central Park. Originally commissioned by etiquette authority Emily Post in 1926, the building was designed by architect Kenneth Murchison and remains one of the area’s most architecturally refined addresses. Its red brick façade with a three-story limestone base, quoins at the corners, and bronze-accented entrance reflects the understated elegance of the era. The building's location places it steps from cultural landmarks such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Carlyle Hotel, and the New York Society Library.
Inside, apartments are spacious and well-appointed, many retaining period details such as wood-burning fireplaces, tall arched windows, and formal entry galleries. Select residences span multiple levels and are known for their gracious layouts, large corner living rooms, libraries, and enclosed kitchens and dining rooms. Some upper-floor units offer views of Central Park, thanks to the low-rise buildings across the street. Notably, the building once housed the Dutch Ambassador’s personal ballroom, and its event spaces have hosted presidents, Nobel laureates, and celebrities.
The cooperative is staffed by a full-time doorman, live-in resident manager, porters, and handymen. The building is pet-friendly and provides amenities such as a laundry room and sidewalk landscaping, though it does not include a roof deck or fitness center. Apartments may include staff rooms and home offices, with layouts designed to support both entertaining and privacy.
While the building was originally intended as a residence for Post’s social circle, by the late 1990s, its Social Register residents had reportedly decreased to about 20%. Today, 39 East 79th Street continues to attract buyers who value architectural character, generous proportions, and a location that offers both tranquility and access to premier dining, shopping, and transportation.
Limited off-market opportunities might be available at 39 East 79th Street – ideal for those looking to explore listings not currently on the market. Contact us to learn more.
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For some co-ops, instead of price per square foot, we use an estimate of the number of rooms for each sold apartment to chart price changes over time. This is because many co-op listings do not include square footage information, and this makes it challenging to calculate accurate square-foot averages.
By displaying the price per estimated room count, we are able to provide a more reliable and consistent metric for comparing sales in the building. While we hope that this gives you a clearer sense of price trends in the building, all data should be independently verified. All data provided are only estimates and should not be used to make any purchase or sale decision.
Notable past and present residents at 39 East 79th Street
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