132 West 4th Street, PH

Sometimes the word "unique" is not real estate jargon. This is one of those times. A hundred years ago this truly one of a kind apartment was home to renowned silent film actor John Barrymore – who christened it "The Alchemist's Corner" – and it's easy to see why creative minds have been drawn to the space both then and now.

The loft-like apartment occupies the entire top floor and features an expansive living area defined by an enormous vaulted and cast-iron paned skylight, deep-set blue stained-glass windows , arched doorways, and huge fireplace. At the front you will find a large built-in seat before the bay windows, and at the back is a separate king-sized bedroom with en suite bath. The kitchen has been completely remodeled with custom cabinetry and fixtures.

From the great room a door that could belong in a castle leads up a narrow staircase to a spectacular rooftop deck with views north over the former Washington Square Church and south to the Freedom Tower, and where Barrymore installed a garden. The deck also features a covered porch and "cabana" or cottage, which is perfect for sleeping in summertime or entertaining year round (it's heated).

Dating from 1839, the house is one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the Village and would be just as familiar to Edgar Allan Poe today as it would have been when he lived one block south at the time. While you'll feel you've walked into a different world once inside, the building is located just seconds from Washington Square and the modern convenience of the West 4th Street train station.

If you want a steel and glass box, this is not for you. If you want walls with history and a view over the Village, then look no further.