There is a bit of a stigma to the term “Ground Floor Apartment.”   Concerns about noise, privacy, and security always enter into the conversation.  But cast those dispersions aside because today’s edition of “Apartments We Love” features a wunderkind ground-floor apartment that leaves these worries and the city behind.  

This sublime residence, eloquently named the Chelsea CetraRuddy Garden Residence (CetraRuddy was the building architect), is located in a postwar condo at 133 West 22nd Street.  Custom built for the project developer, this ground floor duplexed home offers just about everything. The current sale represents the first time the property has been listed on the open market.    

Developed as a joint venture between Magnum Real Estate Group and the Ascend Group, the property opened in late 2008.   The block is classic Chelsea; the 13-story, 100 unit building is a modern take on the historic factories that once lined this stretch of the Ladies Mile Historic District (actually the building falls just outside the formal boundaries). While the expansive windows replicate the older buildings, the project architect incorporated some convex and concave curves to the facade to add a bit of intrigue.  Look skyward toward the penthouse units to fully appreciate the changes in the curtain wall.

But for the purpose of this post, we’re going to stay grounded, focusing our adulation on this one-of-a-kind (well the developer did build it for himself) duplex residence.  The home features nearly 4000 square feet of combined space, 2380 of which are interior and 1500 of which are spread over multiple levels of exterior space. There is no shortage of places to have fun or just to disappear.

The main level consists of an open concept living room, dining room and kitchen.  There are 11-foot ceilings, dark wide plank flooring, working fireplace with a stone mantle and an overhead built-in flat screen. Floor-to-ceiling windows serve to create a oneness with the exterior space.  The kitchen is anchored by a massive island breakfast bar and features stone countertops and high-end integrated appliances.  A stunning private office with builtins and custom brass sliding glass doors complete the floor.

However, it’s the outdoor garden space that really sets this home apart. Here you’ve got an ivy-covered dining pergola, a separate seating area and a built-in Weber grill. It’s just perfect for hosting midnight soirees or afternoon gatherings. Just like the interior, this garden is fully wired, so you’ve got easy access to lights, water and sound equipment for a truly Gatsby-Esque dining experience.  Yes, Covid will eventually be a thing of the past and entertaining will be back in vogue.  If you live here, you just may never stop.

The second level of the garden offers a putting green and chipping station. The garden is surrounded by an ivy-covered wall so one can polish up their golf game in private. No street noise.  No onlookers. While the term, “one-of-a-kind” might be overused to describe high-end real estate, this amenity in a New York backyard might just be one and only.

The sleeping quarters are located on the upper level; each of the three bedrooms offers floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the garden. The master suite provides a luxurious nightcap.  To start, the adjoining bedroom has been transformed into a spacious sitting room, a perfect setting to unwind at day’s end.  There are custom closets, including a huge walk-in and a gorgeous ensuite master bath. The bathroom has been beautifully styled in natural stone and is fully equipped with a soaking tub, walk-in rainforest shower and a double vanity.  

Security and convenience is provided by a full-time concierge and a resident manager.   The  building also offers a full plate of amenities including a fitness center, garage parking, an outdoor pool and a landscaped rooftop deck complete with cabanas and grilling stations.

This stunning Chelsea home hit the market in early August at $4.99 million, about $2100 per interior square foot.  Less than three months later, the apartment was under contract. At the time of this writing, It has yet to close. Ryan Serhant and Scott Fava of Nest Seekers International are representing the property.  For a look at this fabulous residence or a snapshot of other apartments available for sale or rent at 113 West 22nd Street, please visit Linecity.com.