Impeccably Classic Residence in the Legendary Osborne Lists for $7M

Often overshadowed by the Dakota, its more famous “cousin” further uptown, the Osborne was one of New York’s first major luxury apartment buildings. Located in the heart of Midtown West and completed in 1883, the Osborne’s somber appearance rising up from 205 West 57^th Street belies the dazzling lobby within, “a luminous Byzantine dream of gilded tiles.” But the lobby isn’t the only treasure awaiting your entrance. This classically elegant, 12-room corner duplex exemplifies everything one would expect from a residence in such a legendary building. And it’s on the market for $6,950,000.

The opulent, wood-paneled foyer with a Tiffany glass fixture beautifully sets the tone for the rest of the home. It leads to an enormous double living room, which spans the width of the apartment and features gorgeous stained glass atop all of its oversized windows. In a room this large it is only fitting to have not one but two divine fireplaces, each neatly tucked into rows and rows of built-in bookshelves.

While most would find a living room like that the perfect place to curl up with a good book, a roaring fire, and a brandy, this home ensures that everyone can find their own little nook to unwind in. Off the living room is a 300-square-foot library with its own fireplace, its own bookshelves, a full bar, and a delicious wooden spiral staircase leading up to the higher shelves and taking full advantage of the first level’s 14-foot ceilings.

Yet another fireplace adorns the large dining room, accessed through a lovely arched entryway and easily accessible from the windowed and completely renovated eat-in kitchen. Completing the first level is a huge master suite, though if you prefer the privacy of the upper floor, there are more than enough rooms above to create your own personal sanctuary while still leaving plenty of space for everybody else.

With both original and restored details such as mahogany shutters, wainscoting, decorative moldings, and inlaid wood floors, this impeccable home is perfect for both large- and small-scale entertaining. Plus, its proximity to Carnegie Hall, Central Park, upscale restaurants, and all the retail therapy one might need along 5^th Avenue, means there’s never a shortage of things to see and do.

[Listing: The Osborne, 205 West 57th Street, #3A by Joanne Greene and John A. Sheets of Brown Harris Stevens]

[via CityRealty]

Photos courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens.