The townhouses and brownstones that came to distinguish Upper Manhattan were built at the turn of the century, but they show no signs of fading into obsolescence. On the contrary, these historic homes are more popular than ever. Following in the footsteps of such luminaries as Bob Dylan, Harry Houdini, and Maya Angelou, power couple Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka recently renovated a Harlem townhouse that attracted headlines and set new standards.
More recently, Harlem effectively serves as both setting and another character in the much-anticipated film adaptation of James Baldwin's If Beale Street Could Talk. Off-screen, Corcoran broker David Daniels set a new record with the sale of an elegantly renovated townhouse at 109 West 132nd Street for $3 million. The following Upper Manhattan townhouses offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of New York history.
More recently, Harlem effectively serves as both setting and another character in the much-anticipated film adaptation of James Baldwin's If Beale Street Could Talk. Off-screen, Corcoran broker David Daniels set a new record with the sale of an elegantly renovated townhouse at 109 West 132nd Street for $3 million. The following Upper Manhattan townhouses offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of New York history.
In this article:
Five-story townhouse in the Mount Morris Historic District has been meticulously renovated and restored. However, historic details like original wood shutters, ornate wood cornices, original wainscoting and paneling, and decorative fireplaces with original mantles were carefully preserved and restored. The front parlor and living room's soaring ceilings, wet bar, and garden access make the spaces perfect for entertaining. See full details here.
Located on a quaint cobblestone street in the Jumel Terrace Historic District, this lovely townhouse boasts original wood floors and molding along with recently updated wiring and plumbing. The eat-in kitchen opens onto a charming garden patio. Elsewhere in the house, all bedrooms offer excellent closet space. See full details here.
Well-maintained limestone townhouse is located on a beautiful tree-lined street near Riverside Park, restaurants, and transportation. Features include high ceilings, decorative fireplaces, original wood trim, and a large skylight that lights up the hallway. See full details here.
No details was overlooked in the renovation of this striking Renaissance-style townhouse. The gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances and white wood cabinetry opens up to a deck and a beautiful private garden. Additional features include exposed brick, new hardwood floors, recessed lighting, an overhead skylight, and amazing natural light and storage. See full details here.
Also known as The Art House, this artist's abode has undergone an extensive renovation that combines modern design with historic details. It boasts Victorian cherry wood paneling, exposed brick, five original fireplaces, beamed ceilings, and a striking staircase. See full details here.
Lovingly restored Romanesque Revival style townhouse is one of five landmark houses on Jumel Terrace. Features include amazing natural light, bay windows overlooking park views, hand-carved staircase, five decorative fireplaces, and three skylights. The eat-in kitchen overlooks a manicured garden and patio. See full details here.
Neo-Grec style townhouse built in 1910 is located on an attractive tree-lined street with easy access to Harlem's best dining, shopping, and transportation. Features include soaring ceilings on the parlor floor, abundant storage, and a private landscaped garden offering over 750 square feet of outdoor space. See full details here.
In this beautiful Neo-Italian Renaissance townhouse, a tiger oak staircase and four fireplaces are among the original details that have been lovingly preserved and refurbished. The living room boasts high ceilings, wonderful natural light, and a wood-burning fireplace. A large windowed kitchen features custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a pantry with washer/dryer, and an eight-foot island with granite countertops. See full details here.
Nineteenth-century townhouse in historic Hamilton Heights masterfully combines original details with modern luxuries. A double-height parlor welcomes residents and guests, and the stainless steel kitchen leads to an eat-in balcony and full backyard for amazing entertaining options inside and out. See full details here.
Impressively renovated townhouse on a tree-lined street combines historic details with condo-quality finishes. The double-height Great Room boasts incredible natural light and and impressive open layout. All bedrooms have generous square footage, excellent closet space, and en-suite baths. See full details here.
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Michelle Mazzarella
Michelle is a contributing writer and editor for real estate news in New York City