$1.58M Seaport duplex condo is in Manhattan’s third-oldest building

Situated on cobblestoned Water Street in Lower Manhattan, this two-bedroom duplex condo, asking $1,575,000, sits behind the charming facade of what is said to be the borough’s third-oldest surviving building. Built around 1773, the listing tells us, the Captain Joseph Rose House at 273 Water Street is “the oldest dwelling and shop, and the third oldest building surviving in Manhattan.” The apartment within, however, offers every contemporary convenience, with the extra perk of a private roof deck with World Trade Center and city skyline views.

The home’s lower floor comprises the living and dining space. The large living room is framed by white brick walls and anchored by a decorative fireplace. The apartment has central air conditioning, recessed lighting, and hardwood floors throughout.

A very functional U-shaped kitchen offers contemporary style, with white cabinetry and a silver-grey tiled backsplash surrounding stainless steel appliances. Adjacent to the kitchen is a large formal dining area. Also on this floor is a huge “secret” walk-in closet–one of many closets–tucked behind built-in shelving.

On the upper floor are the sleeping quarters, including a king-sized primary bedroom with a walk-through closet and a second bedroom. A home office space occupies the second-floor landing, and there is a spot for a washer/dryer to be installed near the primary bathroom.

A 180-square-foot private roof deck offers city views to the north and south. This coveted urban outdoor space makes summer entertaining as easy as stepping out the door.

In the Georgian-style building’s basement are laundry facilities, additional storage, and bike storage. The pet-friendly building is maintained by a local resident manager.

Originally rented to merchants, 273 Water Street was later home to Sportsmans Hall, a tavern infamous for hosting rat and dog fights. A 1904 fire destroyed the original third story and roof and another fire in 1974 destroyed the interiors. The city soon after seized the property for back taxes and it sat abanonded for two decades.

In 1997 developer Frank J. Sciame, Jr. purchased the building for $1, later renovating and converting the building into luxury apartments. According to the Historic Districts Council, the remaining original architectural elements of the Captain Joseph Rose House include the Flemish bond brickwork and two wood sills on the second story.

[Listing details: 273 Water Street, Apt. 3R at CityRealty]

[At Brown Harris Stevens by Rory Clark and Clifford Marks]

Photo credit: Rise Media