Philanthropists Joe and Carol Reich Sell Central Park West Condo for $16M

Philanthropists Joe and Carol Reich have sold their Central Park West condo, according to city records, and when we say this place is fit for a king, we’re not exaggerating. The couple’s $16 million former duplex actually resides in the Prasada, which is one of the most prominent buildings in the city and one of the three buildings that solidified Central Park West as a prestigious avenue. In fact, this Beaux-Arts beauty—designed by architectural duo Charles W. Romeyn and Henry R. Wynne—was one of the first high rises to attract wealthy New Yorkers back around the turn of the century when townhouse living was the norm. But what else would you expect from a place that was commissioned by the King of Spain? See? We told you we weren’t exaggerating.

Unit 8/9A occupies the “architect floors” of the Prasada. The term typically refers to the 8^th and 9^th floors because they provide a great view of the park, trees, Fifth Avenue skyline, and the Southern light. Oh yeah, in case you weren’t already impressed with the history of this building, the duplex happens to be the only unit in the building with direct park views, and it doesn’t do it halfway. Both floors of the residence have an enfilade of rooms with 45 feet of these stunning sights. We’re sold.

The brilliant Noel Jeffrey-designed, five-bedroom home has the master suite situated on the entire 8^th floor with the rest of the living, entertaining, and sleeping quarters on the 9^th floor. There’s no shortage of “wow” moments in this residence, as you’ll see immediately upon entering on the 9^th floor. A living room and adjoining formal dining room usher you to your first stunning view of the park. Triple-glazed mahogany windows frame the scene, while a decorative fireplace in each of the two rooms gives you another beautiful focal point, on the off chance that your gaze ever leaves the window.

Past the dining room and its beautiful bay windows is the large chef’s kitchen. Friends and family alike will love the white shaker cabinets and ample counter space. Meanwhile, a copper skylight illuminates a curved grand staircase–with a mahogany banister and cast bronze accents–that leads you down to the discrete master suite. But let’s be honest, the master suite can’t be that discrete with an enchanting staircase like that piquing your curiosity.

There’s only one thing better than great sights… the real thing. And luckily for the new owners of this amazing apartment, there’s a lot of the real thing right outside their door. After begrudgingly pulling their gaze from the mesmerizing views, we imagine the new residents will be happy to experience the excitement that comes with being right in the Lincoln Square neighborhood, with Central Park–and its zoo–right across the street. Time to go find those guys from Madagascar.

[Listing: 50 Central Park West 8/9A by Lisa Lippman and Penny Toepfer of Brown Harris Stevens]

Photos courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens