It was once the home of notable figures such as Bennett Cerf, founder of Random House, socialite Phyllis Cerf Wagner, and former New York City Mayor Robert F. Wagner. Today, it has been beautifully updated to harmonize its historic charm with contemporary design, offering an unparalleled living experience in one of New York City's most prestigious locations.
With over 7,200 square feet of exquisitely designed space, this home spans five levels, each served by an elevator, and offers five generous bedrooms and six full and one-half bathrooms. The property boasts grand proportions, with ceilings of over 11 feet on every floor, as well as a stunning 32-foot-long south-facing garden with waterfall, custom lighting, and lush plantings for maximum privacy.
GARDEN LEVEL: Past its gated entrance, the home opens into an elegant foyer, featuring Carrera marble floors and striking custom brass French doors with transom glass panels. The space then opens into a gourmet kitchen, equipped with a La Cornue multiple burner gas range, and leads into a dining area that overlooks the tranquil Zen garden. Also on this floor are a separate service entrance with a vestibule and mudroom, a butler's pantry, and a powder room.
PARLOR LEVEL: The parlor level boasts a grand living room overlooking the garden, a lounge area, and a library. High ceilings and abundant natural light enhance the elegance of this entire floor.
THIRD LEVEL: The third level is dedicated to a luxurious primary suite, featuring an expansive bedroom with high ceilings and abundant closet space. The en-suite bathroom is particularly striking, occupying half the floor and featuring a fireplace and large windows flooding the room with natural light.
FOURTH LEVEL: The fourth level comprises two elegantly appointed bedrooms, each with generous proportions and abundant natural light. This floor also includes two fully renovated bathrooms, designed with premium finishes.
FIFTH LEVEL: The fifth level offers two additional bedrooms, both with high ceilings and ample natural light, as well as two more fully renovated bathrooms. This floor also includes a versatile lounge space or TV den, perfect for relaxation or casual gatherings.
CELLAR: The cellar level, accessible via elevator, features a powder room, ample storage area, and a laundry room.
132 East 62nd Street is a masterpiece of architecture and design, blending historical elegance with contemporary style in one of Upper East Side's most desirable locations.
Quick Profile
Exuding a cosmopolitan, refined air that is reminiscent of Paris or other European cities, the Upper East Side (the UES, to local cognoscenti) has a reputation as being a bastion of wealth and privilege. Even though it was built by American “royalty” families like the Vanderbilts, Roosevelts, Kennedys, Carnegies and Rockefellers, whose elaborate mansions once anchored Fifth Avenue, there are affordable housing options throughout the neighborhood. The further east you move, away from Central Park and the more commercial avenues, the more likely you are to find quiet, tree-lined streets with historic townhouses and brownstones. Keep your eye out for reasonably priced apartments in pre-war low-rise and even a few high-rise buildings.
With abundant, beautifully landscaped green spaces, including the oasis of Central Park acting like a backyard, the area is quiet and lushly green. You can relax and unwind in John Jay Park, Carl Schurz Park or take a stroll along the East River Promenade. The whole neighborhood seems isolated from the workaday chaos of the city at large. Add to that the history of the neighborhood and the abundance of cultural institutions, and you have a uniquely welcoming neighborhood.
Known for its abundance of high-end retail shopping, especially on Madison Avenue, the Upper East Side is host to the Barneys New York flagship department store. Here you can find upscale goods, fashion and home decor items. You will also find the edgy runway-inspired Alexander McQueen collections. If you are dying to treat your feet to red-soled opulence, be sure to visit the Christian Louboutin boutique. These are only a small sampling of this high-end shopper’s paradise that features everything from designer boutiques that offer the ultimate in haute couture to resale shops where you can find last season’s best on sale at hefty discounts .
There are many unique dining experiences, from fine dining to the casual bite-on-the-go, awaiting you in the UES. Sushi is going through a renaissance in the city, and the best omakase-style sushi can be found at Sasabune on E 73rd Street. Omakase sushi means that you leave the choice of ingredients, preparation method and presentation to the chef. Elegant French cuisine can be experienced at JoJo, E 64th Street, housed in gorgeous townhouse. Just for fun, visit the Lexington Candy Shop on Lexington Avenue, to get a taste of an old-fashioned soda fountain.