$7,488,888
Updated a year ago
Off Market

32 West 85th Street

Upper West Side, Manhattan | Central Park West & Columbus Ave

14 Rooms7 Beds4 Baths5,127 Square FeetSingle Family

$7,488,888
floors / apts5 / 1
Lot Size17'x102'
Built Size17'x55'
ZoneR8B
Building TypeTownhouse
RE Taxes$22,452
Price Per SF
$1,461

Outdoor space and views

  • Garden

Building Amenities

  • Voice Intercom
  • Garden

Property Description for 32 West 85th Street

HISTORIC RENAISSANCE REVIVAL TOWNHOUSE WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Rare Investment Opportunity in Central Park West Historic District This magnificent 1897 Renaissance Revival townhouse presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Upper West Side history while capitalizing on valuable development potential. Spanning 5,127 square feet with an additional 1,077 square feet in the cellar, this 17-foot-wide architectural masterpiece offers untapped air rights of approximately 800 sf for potential vertical expansion. Post expansion you'll have 7,000+ sf including the basement! ARCHITECTURAL GRANDEUR The grand parlour floor showcases impeccable period details with soaring 11'4" ceilings, including: • Original woodwork and ornate fireplaces • Elegant pocket doors with pristine detailing • Stunning stained glass windows • Gracious bay windows flooding the space with natural light • Formal stair hall with original banister • Butler's pantry • Turn-of-the-century hand-painted ceiling in parlour room HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Designed by renowned architect George Frederick Pelham, this townhouse represents one of his final residential masterpieces before transitioning to iconic Upper West Side apartment buildings. The property's cultural significance is enhanced by its role as a filming location for "Boardwalk Empire" and includes a mirror from the legendary Studio 54. INVESTMENT POTENTIAL • Available air rights for vertical expansion • Strong structural integrity ideal for renovation • Neighboring property at 30 West 85th Street recently sold for $18.3M after renovation • Prime location in Central Park West Historic District • Advantageous lot dimensions: 17-ft x 102.17-ft • Building dimensions: 17-ft x 55-ft • Favorable tax structure LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY Perfectly positioned in the heart of the Upper West Side, offering: • Steps from Central Park • Premium dining and shopping • Cultural attractions • Crosstown bus on 86th Street • B/C and 1 trains nearby • Easy access to major transportation hubs PROPERTY DETAILS Price: $7.4M Square Footage: 5,127 (plus 1,077 SF cellar) Configuration: Multi-level townhouse Year Built: 1897 Style: Renaissance Revival Location: Central Park West Historic District This rare offering combines historical prestige with significant development potential, presenting an exceptional opportunity for buyers seeking to create their dream residence in one of Manhattan's most coveted neighborhoods.

Listing History for 32 West 85th Street

Now
07/08/2025
TOM by Mandy Ostrowsky
Compass
04/30/2025
$7,488,888
Initial Price by Mandy Ostrowsky
Compass

Building Details for 32 West 85th Street

OwnershipSingle Family
Building TypeTownhouse
Service LevelVoice Intercom
AgePre-War
AccessWalk-up
Year Built1897
Floors/Apts5/1
Learn More About the Building

Transit and Citi Bike

Subway

86 St
0.12 miles
81 St-Museum of Natural History
0.25 miles
86 St
0.38 miles
79 St
0.48 miles

Citi Bike

Central Park W & W 85 St
0.06 miles
W 82 St & Central Park W
0.15 miles

Contact Agent

Contact Agent

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: 77818TH