53 Prospect Park West

Magnificent architecture...dramatic views...the largest private garden in Brooklyn. Arguably one of the most significant properties to come to market in New York City in recent memory is 53 Prospect Park West. Standing regally across from Prospect Park and flanked by two lions on pilasters, it is one of a row of mansions that earned the epithet The Gold Coast and was included in Park Slopes first historic district designation in 1973. Completed in 1901, just three years after Brooklyn officially joined New York City, by renowned architect William Tubby (well known for, among others, some of the buildings on Pratt Institutes campus) and a rare example of neo-Jacobean style. It was commissioned by William H. Childs: prominent financier (he made his fortune in scouring powder, as founder of the Bon Ami Company), philanthropist and a key supporter of Teddy Roosevelts Progressive Party. His family occupied the house until 1947. After Childs wife died, son Richard sold the building to the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture, an organization that espouses the values of social justice, compassion and celebrating the human spirit. Its been their meeting house, as well as a destination for countless weddings, community events and other festivities. The house is 5,724 square feet spanning four stories and an additional full-height cellar. A glorious sunroom was added in 1907 on the garden level; dramatic views of the park and Brooklyn are seen from every window. Many original architectural details are highlighted by the soaring heights of the oversized rooms. They include hand-carved walnut ceilings, a curved stair with carved scabbards as balusters, monumental marble fireplaces, hand-painted friezes, leaded-glass windows, a six-window bay with terrace, custom-designed Tiffany windows, and so much more. The 9,800 square-foot garden includes a carefully tended landscape that wraps around three sides of the building. Verdant with perennial shrubs details, mature trees and an expansive lawn, there is also a paved terrace and a meditative sitting area with stone benches. 53 Prospect Park West is a property unique in New York City and could be a magnificent private home or museum, library, school or concert hall. Whatever its next incarnation, it will remain a splendid and unique architectural masterpiece in a spectacular bucolic setting.