New York's sweetest studio apartments; Efficient homes with custom furniture, creative layouts, and private outdoor space

By CityRealty Staff | From Great Listings Tuesday, April 2, 2024

104 Bedford Street, #4E (Douglas Elliman)

In fall 2023, when it was reported that Mayor Adams was considering a plan to allow single-room occupancy (SRO) buildings to be built again, some saw it as a return to the bad old days in light of SROs’ sordid history. However, a closer look at the proposal found that rather than outright calling for the return of SROs, it sought to amend zoning laws that set minimum apartment size requirements, which in turn prevented construction of new SRO buildings and the improvement of existing ones. It must be noted that pre-pandemic co-living buildings, with their small private quarters and emphasis on common amenities, were not dissimilar to SROs of old. Moreover, city officials and building owners have learned their lesson from past SROs and are prepared for better inspections and plans for more buy-ins from non-profits.

Even if new SRO buildings do not rise, the proposed changes could lead to more studio apartments. Current zoning does not allow for towers of studios and one-bedrooms like the ones that went up in the post-war era (h/t Curbed); if anything, an analysis by The New York Times noted that thanks to the popularity of uber-luxury boutique buildings with only a small handful of half-floor, full-floor, and multi-level apartments, newly built studios and one-bedrooms have dwindled. On the rare occasions that studios are available in these buildings, they are marketed as staff or guest quarters to be bundled with a larger apartment, as opposed to a singular purchase. This does a disservice to small households who might like to enter the New York housing market, but only have the funds and desire for a studio apartment.

There’s little question that demand is there: CityRealty listings show only 721 studios for sale throughout Manhattan, northern Brooklyn, and parts of Queens and the Bronx. In summer 2023, the New York Post ran a profile of buyers who bought studios as an alternative to hotels, rentals, or Airbnbs. More recently, The Brooklyn Tower recorded the borough’s highest studio price per square foot on record ($905,000, or over $2,000 per square foot).

Finally, studio apartments have evolved from one single, sparse room into homes that can be more thoughtfully and creatively planned than apartments twice their size. Murphy beds of old remain in place in some studios, but certain buildings have gone one step further with space-saving modular furniture that can create all sorts of configurations and be stored in the ceiling when not in use. This feature is more popular in rentals than sales (examples include The Artisan in Essex Crossing, The Set in Hudson Yards, and The Smile in East Harlem), but builders have gotten creative with layouts, and buyers have taken the initiative to add creative storage solutions and custom furniture, some of which is included in a studio’s price to sweeten the deal.

Featured Studio Listings
(Full list of all active studio listings in NYC at bottom)

Stella Tower, #12B
$950,000

Midtown West | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 660 ft²

Stella Tower, #12B (Compass)

From the Listing: Residence 12B at the iconic Stella Tower is the epitome of prewar sophistication, paired with an effortless blend of modern convenience. Spanning over 660 square feet, this studio apartment is splendidly laid out and accentuated by soaring 11" ceilings. The southern, landmarked exposures showcase some of the most dramatic and unobstructed skyline views in all of Manhattan through oversized custom tilt-and-turn casement windows. See floor plan and full details here.

The Remsen, #5J
$385,000

Brooklyn Heights | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

The Remsen, #5J (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: This modern turnkey studio in a historic Brooklyn Heights full-service coop is ready for its new owner! As you enter the apartment you are greeted by a separated foyer, which features a large closet and a full wall of built-in bookshelves. The spacious main living area features two oversized eastern-facing windows and a large walk-in closet. The windowed kitchen has been fully renovated, complete with brand new full-sized appliances, including a microwave, and modern two-tone cabinetry. See floor plan and full details here.

Prospect Tower, #1020
$399,000

Turtle Bay/United Nations | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

Prospect Tower, #1020 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Offering a panoramic vista of the East River, Apartment 1020 embodies modern luxury living in New York City. The space is thoughtfully designed for both aesthetics and practicality. Abundant storage solutions include spacious closets, cabinets, shelves, and a custom-built wardrobe system with motion-sensor accent light. A dedicated home office space keeps work organized, while a smartly configured queen-size murphy bed allows for easy transformation between a spacious living room and a cozy bedroom. The full-sized kitchen is equipped with a full-sized refrigerator, built-in electric cooktop, custom-built pantry, ample cabinets, and a large, sleek granite counter with two comfortable bar stools. Utilities are included in the monthly maintenance. See floor plan and full details here.

444 East 52nd Street, #8B
$425,000

Beekman/Sutton Place | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath | 400 ft²

444 East 52nd Street, #8B (R New York)

From the Listing: Welcome home to this elegant and romantic studio apartment, in one of the most distinguished residential buildings along the banks of the East River. As you open the door to your gracious entry foyer — you will note two sizable closets fitted with the original paneled doors mirrored to reflect the light and artwork. This expertly designed studio apartment has Art Deco touches, prewar details, and some whimsical flourishes of an English country house. There’s a place for everything: the dry bar and silver coffee set serve both as side tables and nightstands. The coffee table functions as a dining table as well as a great reading table. While you have a fully functioning kitchen with new appliances, you can hide it all away as you close the newly installed barn-doors which gives the place the look & feel of a proper living room — perfect for entertaining! See floor plan and full details here.

336 West End Avenue, #6F
$430,000

Broadway Corridor | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

336 West End Avenue, #6F (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Large Art Deco alcove studio in an extremely well-maintained full-service, doorman, prewar building on West End Avenue and 76th Street, anchoring two historic districts. Sunken living area with Murphy bed is separated by a few steps from an dining/home-office area. Both the kitchen and the bathroom are windowed and renovated. Floors are herringbone oak. Deep closets and other built-in storage. See floor plan and full details here.

140 East 28th Street, #8A
$435,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

140 East 28th Street, #8A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: As you enter this versatile home, your eye will be drawn to a confluence of striking pre-war characteristics - graceful archway opening into the living room, four large windows welcoming warm light flowing from the southern exposure, generous ceiling heights and the centerpiece gorgeous wood-burning fireplace. The studio is large enough to seamlessly create a natural division of living area, sleeping area and dining area. The bright kitchen with a window boasts full-size appliances and a plethora of cabinet storage. The bathroom has been tastefully updated and boasts a large dressing room with a deep and spacious closet. See floor plan and full details here.

The Bancroft, #81C
$450,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

The Bancroft, #81C (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Stunning studio designed with a Parisian-style ambiance, a stone's throw from Central Park, the iconic Dakota, and Strawberry Fields. Meticulously renovated, with custom built-ins, and hand-painted Venetian plaster, all with the luxuries of an exceptional home. This studio is stylish and functional, with combined living, island counter dining, and a remote work area. Apartment 81C also offers a bonus storage closet, located outside the apartment, a rare offering in this building. See floor plan and full details here.

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201 East 66th Street, #PHP
$470,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

201 East 66th Street, #PHP (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Waiting for you is a sunny penthouse studio with a private over-sized terrace! To the left of the foyer is the windowed kitchen (with views) enhanced by renovations, which include a white Summit fridge and Bertazzoni stove. The blissfully airy open living room comfortably accommodates king and queen pull-out sofas, and has a large closet. Finally, unlock the glass terrace door and step-out to full western, northern and southern views, including the Chrysler building, and scrumptious cityscape in the evening. See floor plan and full details here.

The Broadmoor, #12F
$475,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

The Broadmoor, #12F (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This sunny, expansive, rare jumbo studio at the Broadmoor has eastern exposure and open views. The California-style open kitchen features custom wood cabinetry, dishwasher, granite countertops, and a full-size fridge. The bathroom with a deep soaking tub and white tiles is in excellent condition. High-beamed ceilings, a Murphy bed, two closets, hardwood floors, and pre-war details are just some of the many features of this special apartment. See floor plan and full details here.

10 Park Avenue, #17C
$535,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

10 Park Avenue, #17C (City Connections Realty Inc)

From the Listing: This special studio on Park Avenue has a separate sleeping balcony and a sunken living room. It is south-facing, getting good light and a city view. In addition, the apartment has chair rail moldings, beautifully redone hardwood floors, high beamed ceilings, casement windows, plus City quiet windows, making it a comfortable place to live. The windowed kitchen has been creatively redone and the art deco bathroom is nicely updated. See floor plan and full details here.

750 Park Avenue, #8E
$580,000 (-4.9%)

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath | 610 ft²

750 Park Avenue, #8E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Spacious alcove studio on Park Avenue has a beautiful balcony to enjoy sunrises with coffee and sunsets with cocktails, views into Central Park and open eastern views. Features include a large wall of windows with open exposures offering uptown charm. Full size kitchen and bathroom with six spacious closets. Enjoy the sunny terrace with views to the north, east, and west overlooking beautiful Park Avenue with a glimpse of Central Park. See floor plan and full details here.

60 Plaza Street East, #6G
$600,000

Prospect Heights | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

60 Plaza Street East, #6G (Keller Williams NYC)

From the Listing: Truly exceptional alcove studio with sweeping views of Grand Army Plaza! This captivating and enchanting home is bathed in gorgeous southwest light and provides an expansive and versatile layout for your lifestyle needs. A generously sized foyer can serve as a home office space or a welcoming entry to your home. Step up from the living room to a large dining area that takes you into a windowed double galley kitchen with excellent counter and cabinet space. Classic prewar architectural details including high ceilings, rounded archways and hardwood floors sweeten the allure! See floor plan and full details here.

Morgan Lofts, #303
$675,000

Murray Hill | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 525 ft²

Morgan Lofts, #303 (Nest Seekers LLC)

From the Listing: This gorgeous studio apartment in the heart of Midtown Manhattan features wide plank espresso oak floor, extra-high ceilings, and oversized windows. The residents of this unit will enjoy solid core doors, central AC and heat climate control. The kitchen is open and has top-of-the-line appliances, including dishwasher, range and stove, Miele exhaust and a Sub-Zero fridge, and washer/dryer. Bathroom features a Kohler soaking tub. See floor plan and full details here.

Worldwide Plaza, #5II
$678,000

Midtown West | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 525 ft²

Worldwide Plaza, #5II (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Residence 5ii is one of the largest studios at Worldwide Plaza. Overlooking into the peaceful landscaped residents courtyard, its western exposure makes it bright and sunny. The newly created pass-thru kitchen has been extended to accommodate a convenient breakfast bar with self-closing drawers, high-end appliances, and new tile floor. The bathroom has a new vanity, new medicine cabinet, new floor and new light. This extra-wide spacious home has new hardwood floors, lots of closet space and overhead lighting. See floor plan and full details here.

Chelsea Lane, #2GN
$699,000 (-2.8%)

Flatiron/Union Square | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath | 575 ft²

Chelsea Lane, #2GN (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: This surprisingly spacious garden-facing alcove studio offers a tranquil respite from the bustle of the city. The unit was refreshed with a new coat of paint, refinished wood flooring, and new lighting. The living space showcases picture windows and a pin-drop quiet interior. The unit offers a modern bathroom and a separate full-sized kitchen ready for move-in. See floor plan and full details here.

2 Sutton Place South, #5H
$695,000

Beekman/Sutton Place | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath | 600 ft²

2 Sutton Place South, #5H (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: FAS/Fritz Architecture Studio designed this luxurious renovation with meticulous attention to detail. The entryway of the home is welcoming and leads to a spacious windowed kitchen with custom cabinetry, bookshelf, and high-quality appliances, including a concealed Bosch washer and dryer. Step down into the elegant large square living space with walls of all new cold-rolled steel casement windows that have been installed throughout with Hunter Douglas shades. A generous seating area with handsome mantle, bookshelves, television, a captain's bed and through wall air-conditioning fill this space. The windowed bathroom is stunning a curved marble high ceiling design, giving it a luxurious feel. See floor plan and full details here.

Wedgwood House, #18D
$795,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Condop | Studio, 1 Bath

Wedgwood House, #18D (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Located on the 18th floor of the prestigious Wedgwood House, unwind in the L-shaped studio's sun-filled light by day and twinkling skyline views by night, with panoramic downtown views that include the Fourth of July fireworks. The antique armoire converts to an instant 'alcove office', perfect for working remotely. The private planted terrace boasts a stunning bronze fountain, perfect for al fresco moments. Furniture included. In-unit washer/dryer allowed with board approval. See floor plan and full details here.

Barbizon 63, #4O
$820,000

Lenox Hill | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 426 ft²

Barbizon 63, #4O (Peter Ashe)

From the Listing: This chic apartment at The Barbizon offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and urban living, making it an ideal retreat for the discerning city dweller. The open layout seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and sleeping areas, maximizing every inch of space to create an airy and inviting ambiance. High ceilings and large windows flood the apartment with natural light, illuminating the sleek finishes and elegant furnishings throughout. The fully equipped kitchen boasts ample storage, perfect for whipping up culinary delights. See floor plan and full details here.

104 Bedford Street, #4E
$825,000

West Village | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

104 Bedford Street, #4E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Sun drenched on the 4th floor, this pre-war studio occupies a coveted spot on one of the West Village's most desirable blocks. Offering quintessential West Village charm alongside modern conveniences, the apartment boasts original hardwood floors, new windows, a fireplace, elevator access, and low maintenance costs. See floor plan and full details here.

149 Huron Street, #1A
$900,000

Greenpoint | Condominium | Studio, 1.5 Baths | 897 ft²

149 Huron Street, #1A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Generous in both size and layout, this huge studio duplex offers a rec room/home office, 1.5 baths PLUS a separate bonus room. The entrance level includes an open living room, full bath and galley kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, countertops, and breakfast bar for additional seating. On the lower level, you'll find a large rec room or home office with open layout and an additional room. See floor plan and full details here.

The Brooklyn Tower, #54C
$950,000

Downtown Brooklyn | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 574 ft²

The Brooklyn Tower, #54C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This sky studio perched 546 feet above the ground and boasting 574 square feet of living space, Residence 54C at The Brooklyn Tower is a stunning studio apartment with unparalleled views over Brooklyn and verdant Fort Greene Park. This elegant residence features interiors by Gachot Studios, an AD100 firm known for their sophisticated and timeless designs. See floor plan and full details here.

Belltel Lofts, #2E
$1,075,000

Downtown Brooklyn | Condominium | Studio, 2 Baths | 1,266 ft²

Belltel Lofts, #2E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: When you open the door to apartment 2E, you are immediately struck by the sight of the "Hallway to Infinity" - a 37' long corridor/gallery that leads you home. Off of the hallway are 3 sleeping areas, 2 large baths, laundry closet with washer/dryer, and multiple closets. The far end of the hall empties into the ample great room with 2 large windows. The open kitchen has new stainless-steel appliances and abundant cabinets. See floor plan and full details here.

450 Washington Street, #507
$1,165,000

Tribeca | Condop | Studio | 478 ft²

450 Washington Street, #507 (Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group)

From the Listing: Direct Hudson River views set a magical tone for Residence 507, with views of the Hudson River Park treetops, the dazzling views over the Hudson River, and stunning sunsets every day. The meticulously-detailed interiors include myriad modern details including 7-inch-wide plank white oak flooring and massive bronze-finished windows with Caesarstone window ledges. The open-concept kitchen features Miele appliances, natural warm-toned quartzite countertops, crisp matte white lacquer cabinetry, architectural cove lighting and Dornbracht faucet fixtures. See floor plan and full details here.

18 Mercer Street, #1
$1,750,000 (-12.5%)

SoHo | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

18 Mercer Street, #1 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: An extraordinary opportunity to design your own SoHo oasis over two full floors here on highly sought-after Mercer Street! The main floor of this duplex loft has soaring ceiling heights approaching 15 feet, with exposed brick and original hardwood flooring. In the rear discover a stunning old-world solarium - a unique feature to first-floor homes built in this era. A winding steel staircase reaches for the sky to a small outdoor terrace, with the surrounding kitchen basking in natural light. Multiple mezzanines are currently configured for home office and sleeping areas. See floor plan and full details here.

The Greenwich by Rafael Vinoly, #6C
$2,200,000

Financial District | Condominium | Studio, 2 Baths | 1,025 ft²

The Greenwich by Rafael Vinoly, #6C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Residence 6C at The Greenwich by Rafael Vinoly is an expansive duplex loft home with double-height ceilings reaching over 20 feet, with western exposures looking out onto the tree-lined street and beyond. The formal entry foyer opens to the gracious living space, with 6" wide white oak flooring in light beige finish. The custom designed kitchen features a full suite of Miele appliances, polished nickel fixtures, cabinets in light beige finish, and Fior di Pesco Carnico marble countertops and backsplash. See floor plan and full details here.

Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue, #6D
$2,475,000

Midtown East | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath

Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue, #6D (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Introducing Mandarin Oriental Residences, located on Fifth Avenue, just steps away from Central Park. Step into a world of refined elegance and Mandarin Oriental service, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to create a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication. Each fully furnished and appointed residence is designed to provide the perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics. From intimate meals in the privacy of your own residence to unforgettable gastronomic adventures at Boulud Prive, your taste buds will be treated to an exceptional journey of flavors. Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue's indulgent amenities were designed to embrace and enhance your wellbeing and provide you with ultimate relaxation. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

This is your member's center

In this article:

Featured Studio Listings
(Full list of all active studio listings in NYC at bottom)

Stella Tower, #12B
$950,000

The Remsen, #5J
$385,000

Prospect Tower, #1020
$399,000

444 East 52nd Street, #8B
$425,000

336 West End Avenue, #6F
$430,000

140 East 28th Street, #8A
$435,000

The Bancroft, #81C
$450,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

201 East 66th Street, #PHP
$470,000

The Broadmoor, #12F
$475,000

10 Park Avenue, #17C
$535,000

750 Park Avenue, #8E
$580,000 (-4.9%)

60 Plaza Street East, #6G
$600,000

Morgan Lofts, #303
$675,000

Worldwide Plaza, #5II
$678,000

Chelsea Lane, #2GN
$699,000 (-2.8%)

2 Sutton Place South, #5H
$695,000

Wedgwood House, #18D
$795,000

Barbizon 63, #4O
$820,000

104 Bedford Street, #4E
$825,000

149 Huron Street, #1A
$900,000

The Brooklyn Tower, #54C
$950,000

Belltel Lofts, #2E
$1,075,000

450 Washington Street, #507
$1,165,000

18 Mercer Street, #1
$1,750,000 (-12.5%)

The Greenwich by Rafael Vinoly, #6C
$2,200,000

Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue, #6D
$2,475,000

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In this article:

Featured Studio Listings(Full list of all active studio listings in NYC at bottom)

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Select which properties are of interest to you:

Listings in this article

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