156 Reade Street

The Glass House on Reade
One of Tribeca’s most architecturally significant homes, 156 Reade Street stands as a rare convergence of design, history, and innovation. Lauded in numerous architectural texts, this masterpiece was conceived by renowned architect John Petrarca as his personal residence. Its striking facade reinterprets downtown’s iconic cast-iron streetscape through a modern lens, setting a new benchmark for contemporary architecture.

Inside, every element has been meticulously crafted to balance both grandeur and livability.

At once imposing and intimate, this home is a testament to the power of architecture to shape not just space, but experience.

Spanning an impressive 25’ of frontage across six stories, 156 Reade offers five floors of masterfully designed, effortlessly livable single-family space atop a versatile retail level and a fully finished basement. Inside, expansive, light-filled spaces unfold, blending architectural precision with a sense of warmth and ease.

Layout

Entry - The residence begins with a first-floor mudroom, accented by reclaimed walnut paneling and leading to the private elevator.

Floor 2 - One floor up, you’ll find the first bedroom level. Here, two sun-drenched bedrooms and two full bathrooms flank a sprawling bonus room, crowned by a full-ceiling skylight.

This versatile space offers endless possibilities, serving equally well as a home gym, a child’s playroom, or an expansive guest retreat.

Floor 3 - Ascend another level, and the full-floor primary suite reveals itself. The bedroom is accented by rich Merbau hardwood floors and a wall of south-facing windows. The suite boasts two walk-in closets, including a nearly 100sqft dressing room, and a spa-like bathroom encased in natural stone, complete with a walk-in shower, heated floors, and a deep soaking tub for ultimate relaxation.

Floor 4 - The fourth floor is the heart of the home, designed for both grand entertaining and intimate living.

At its center, the great room unfolds with soaring double-height ceilings, framed by rich walnut paneling. The custom Bulthaup kitchen, anchored by an oversized island, seamlessly blends form and function, while a wood-burning fireplace encased in black Chinese quartzite creates a striking focal point. Beneath it all, heated limestone floors add warmth and texture, elevating the space with quiet luxury.

Floor 5 - Overlooking the great room, this open, airy level offers flexible space for an office, media lounge, or casual gatherings.

A full bath with a steam shower adds spa-like comfort, while a dedicated laundry room enhances convenience.

Floor 6 - A bright, versatile den or an additional bedroom. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to a private rooftop terrace, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Complete with an enclosed kitchenette and unobstructed Freedom Tower views, it’s perfect for alfresco dining, entertaining, or unwinding under the sky.

Retail - The ground floor includes a highly versatile retail space, ideal for supplementary income, a gallery, a studio, or residence expansion.

With city approval/permitting, it could be converted into private parking (please consult with your architect).

Sustainable Design & Thoughtful Upgrades
The Glass House on Reade was designed with eco-friendly intentions and modern convenience in mind. Its double-insulated concrete core walls provide exceptional energy efficiency and sound insulation. Built for his own family, Petrarca prioritized natural, non-toxic materials and integrated an advanced air purification system for a healthier living environment.Additional features, include heated floors, motorized shades, and a heated sidewalk to aid in snow removal.

Meticulously maintained over the past two decades, this one-of-a-kind home remains true to the architect’s original vision, while benefiting from significant recent upgrades.

These include a new Kemper roof, elevator improvements, a new hot water heater, and upgraded HVAC pumps.