$5,795,000
Updated a year ago
Off Market

126 West 78th Street

Upper West Side, Manhattan | Columbus Ave & Amsterdam Ave

17 Rooms8 Beds6.5 Baths5,139 Square FeetMulti-Family

$5,795,000
floors / apts5 / 4
Lot Size19'x96'
Built Size19'x71'
ZoneR8B
Building TypeTownhouse
RE Taxes$102,984
Price Per SF
$1,128

Outdoor space and views

  • Backyard
  • Patio [17'x34']

Building Amenities

  • Voice Intercom

Property Description for 126 West 78th Street

Prime UWS Museum park block gem - with priceless heritage! Own a piece of New York City's quintessential and rich history. This glorious 19' landmarked brownstone, designed by world-renowned Spanish architect and building engineer Rafael Guastavino, is nestled on one of the UWS's most highly sought-after, tree-lined blocks. Completed in 1886 in the Renaissance Revival style, the "Albert Lilienthal House" currently comprises a spacious owner's triplex on its first three floors, two two-bedroom apartments on the building's fourth and fifth floors, as well as a ground floor studio apartment. In addition to the owner’s triplex, all three market-rate rental apartments will be delivered vacant. This offering presents a prime opportunity for a savvy investor or could even provide a multi-generational family compound, all while its owner resides graciously in a three bedroom, three and a half bathroom home. Alternatively, one may choose to explore restoring the home to its majestic, single family roots. This multi-family brownstone, encompassing an impressive 5,139 square feet, offers a harmonious blend of classic architectural charm and modern convenience. Owner's Triplex: Upon entering through the home's private gated entrance, just below its gracious dog-legged front stoop, one is soon greeted by the charm and warmth of exposed brick and the grandeur of soaring wainscot ceilings in the family room. The three bedroom triplex layout, featuring its graceful curved stairs, seamlessly connects the home's two open, spacious, light-filled main living areas, each adorned with a blend of hardwood and ceramic floors. On the first floor, the casement windowed kitchen is a culinary haven, equipped with a Sub-Zero refrigerator and stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, and a high? glass-ceilinged, delightfully sunlit dining area. Whether preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a family breakfast, this chef's eat-in kitchen provides the perfect setting. The dining area off the kitchen also boasts a perfect little office "nook" - ideal for paying bills or for a child doing homework close by, while dinner is being prepared. A powder room is nestled just off of the entryway to the first floor's family room, where one may also step outside to the serene patio, an ideal space for relaxation or entertaining guests. The second ?"parlour" floor comprises the home's main living room, a bedroom and full bathroom, as well as a spacious solarium-esque home office. Light streams in all day long, not only through the office's large, east-facing casement window but also through its glorious glass-paneled ceiling. The similarly light-filled living room radiates character, boasting soaring ceilings, a fireplace, as well as a massive, south-facing casement window and an impressive wall of elegant built-ins. One flight up, the primary bedroom suite is situated on the triplex's third floor. The primary bedroom's three ample windows face south and flood the room with lovely natural light, and this bedroom also features a generous walk-in closet, as well as an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub. On the opposite side of this floor are yet another bedroom and full bathroom. This bedroom "suite" features its own separate sitting area, which can also easily be converted to a cozy nursery or small home office. Studio, Fourth and Fifth Floor Apartments: The studio apartment, accessible from the ground floor entryway, exudes pre-war charm and character immediately upon entry, with its whitewashed brick wall and homey, fully functional kitchenette. Its bathroom is conveniently tucked away down the hall and includes a bathtub. The fourth and fifth floor apartments are accessed through the entrance at the top of the brownstone's stoop, at the parlour floor. Similarly laid-out, each unit boasts a spacious living room, with lovely windows facing West 78th Street's glorious landmarked, architecturally pleasing brownstones right across the way. Each apartment's kitchen is just off of the living room, and each of their two south-facing bedrooms are gracefully separated from their main living areas - down a generous hallway, with a full bathroom located just outside of their bedrooms. While the fourth floor unit showcases a beautiful renovation, the fifth floor unit features a lovely open kitchen and beautiful, unique windows framed by exotic Moorish arches. 126 W 78th Street is more than just an extraordinary residence; it's steeped in history, offering a blend of rich heritage, historic charm and contemporary amenities. This treasured home is conveniently located in a world-class location, just steps from the Museum of Natural History, the new Hayden Planetarium, Central and Riverside Parks, The New York Historical Society, Equinox, some of the city's best playgrounds and dog parks, along with all of the incredible dining and shopping options the Upper West Side has to offer. Don't miss the opportunity to own this true one-of-a-kind architectural gem in one of Manhattan's most desirable and vibrant neighborhoods. Welcome home!

Listing History for 126 West 78th Street

Now
07/08/2025
TOM by Julie Harding
Compass
04/24/2025
$5,795,000
Initial Price by Julie Harding
Compass

Building Details for 126 West 78th Street

OwnershipMulti-Family
Building TypeTownhouse
Service LevelVoice Intercom
AgePre-War
AccessWalk-up
Year Built1910
Floors/Apts5/4
Learn More About the Building

Transit and Citi Bike

Subway

79 St
0.22 miles
81 St-Museum of Natural History
0.27 miles
72 St
0.33 miles
72 St
0.41 miles
86 St
0.49 miles

Citi Bike

W 76 St & Columbus Ave
0.1 miles
Amsterdam Ave & W 79 St
0.12 miles

Contact Agents

Contact Agents

Upper West Side | Manhattan

Quick Profile

Bracketed on its east and west borders by massive city parks, the Upper West Side (UWS) is known for its greenery, stately and elegant townhomes, safe streets and great schools, all of which make it a very desirable neighborhood for families. The UWS has maintained its community feeling, making it attractive to young professionals and retirees, both of whom want a sense of belonging in the place they call home.

Here you’ll find many apartment buildings, especially those along Central Park West. Historic architecture abounds, anchored by four luxury co-ops - the San Remo, Majestic, Century and Eldorado apartments - all of which have two towers on their interiors. They were built in the 1930s and their design was predicated on a 1929 building code that imposed a height limit on residences facing the street. There are also impressive row houses near Riverside Drive throughout the W 70 and 80 Streets. Above the 90s, you will find smaller buildings where walk-ups are very reasonably priced.

There are several world-class museums and venues dedicated to the performing arts. Plentiful dining can be found in the UWS. You will find everything from quaint Jewish delis serving up bagels and a schmear to sophisticated fine dining that has earned multiple Michelin stars, and everything you could possibly want in between. There is also abundant shopping and a vibrant nightlife.

All information furnished regarding property for sale, rental or financing is from sources deemed reliable, but no warranty or representation is made as to the accuracy thereof and same is submitted subject to errors, omissions, change of price, rental or other conditions, prior sale, lease or financing or withdrawal without notice. All dimensions are approximate. For exact dimensions, you must hire your own architect or engineer.
OLR ID: 100309TH