242 East 49th Street, THOUSE

This renovated, elevatored, single-family townhouse offers five full stories of modern luxury with private access to Turtle Bay Gardens, an oasis enjoyed by current residents like Stephen Sondheim and past residents like Bob Dylan, E.B. White and Leopold Stokowski. Now you too can be counted among the artists, writers, and luminaries who have called Turtle Bay Gardens home.

The interiors of this rental brownstone are both contemporary and elegant. From a stone-tiled kitchen full of top-of-the-line appliances, to a floor-through master suite complete with an unusual gabled and balconied master bath and steam room, to state-of-the-art electronics systems, this townhouse has every desirable amenity. Meanwhile, arch-top windows, numerous terraces, and shining wall-sconces are among this home’s many refined touches.
Best of all is the rear garden, with a romantic Mediterranean-style terrace and a low gate to Turtle Bay Gardens. Just step outside to enjoy the burbling song of several Roman-inspired fountains throughout this pocket park that few New Yorkers ever get to explore.

Garden Level:
Through the main entrance you reach the stone-tiled foyer. On the left is the renovated kitchen with stone flooring and counters, mosaic backsplashes, and deluxe appliances including a 6-burner Wolf range and stainless steel Sub-Zero refrigerator. A powder room and elevator are nearby. On your right is a spacious walk-through pantry and china cabinet leading to the formal dining room. Three tall arch-top windows drench this room in sun, while an arch-top glass door opens out to the garden.

The flagstone patio edged with flowering bushes is the ideal place for a summer dinner or cocktail hour. On your right, brick steps curve up to the second story terrace, creating a bi-level outdoor entertaining area. Ascend a few stone steps and swing open a low wooden gate to enter Turtle Bay Gardens. Stroll down the central path and experience the silence and relaxation of this private park. Rest amid the greenery on a hidden lovers’ bench, or continue until you’re surprised by one of several Italianate fountains.

Parlour Level:
Up the stairs and through arch-top doors you reach the parlour level library. A working fireplace, built-in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and French windows combine to make this the library of any bibliophile’s dreams. The rear parlour is an ideal ballroom with soaring ceilings, a working fireplace, shining hardwood flooring, and a floor-to-ceiling mirror. Three sets of graceful French doors open onto the Mediterranean terrace. Your guests can enjoy the view of Turtle Bay Gardens, or descend curving steps to the flagstone patio and explore the Gardens firsthand.

Third Floor:
The rear guest bedroom on the third floor has a working fireplace, plush wall-to-wall carpeting, and a walk-in closet. French doors open to a Juliet balcony overlooking the gardens. Adjoining this bedroom, a full bath with tub has been renovated with cream-colored marble. Another full bath is available in the hallway, with a glass shower and marble tile. The front bedroom on this level enjoys an alcove, hardwood flooring, a fireplace, and three sun-drenched windows.

Fourth Floor:
This level includes another two full-width bedrooms, each with hardwood floors, walk-in closets, and tall windows. The rear bathroom adjoins a renovated full bath with tub, while another full bath with a glass-walled shower is located near the front bedroom.

Fifth Floor:
Exit the elevator or ascend the stairs to the master suite level. The master bath is built for hours or relaxation with a Steamist steam bath sauna, a state-of-the-art audio system, and even a Juliet balcony. Nearby is a windowed dressing room with plenty of room for the most extensive wardrobe. The master bedroom has high, beamed ceilings, a working fireplace, and a built-in flat-screen TV. Three sets of French doors open to the master terrace overlooking the garden.

Cellar:
Descending from the pantry area on the garden level you reach the cellar. This semi-finished space includes a laundry room with side-by-side washer and dryer, a wood-paneled storage room, and a powder room. The building mechanicals are also stored on this level.