344 West 22nd Street

There are only two ways to properly design and honor a historic townhouse: one is to restore the historical pedigree and details of the home and recreate a life that once was, and the other is to completely reimagine the space and make it into what city living is today in the modern age. This townhouse is the epitome and definition of the second, where discrete modern sophistication along with function and form meet light and warmth to create the perfect city home. Situated on the south side of tree lined West 22nd street this handsome 4-story Greek Revival Townhome was commissioned by Annabelle Selldorf and Associates for the late and legendary Barbara Gladstone. As expected there are very few homes where every square inch has been thought through and then meticulously executed. From the moment you enter the parlor level after ascending the restored 19th-century stoop, the home unfolds like a private gallery, where every architectural detail feels naturally purposeful. Upon entering through the restored front doors, you’re immediately welcomed by a serene, gallery-like vestibule—an intentional moment of pause that sets the tone for the refined interiors beyond. A full-height glass door serves as both portal and threshold, offering a first glimpse into the soul of the home. As you move through the parlor, the atmosphere subtly shifts—light expands, materials soften, and the architectural narrative begins to unfold. With 11-foot ceilings, the parlor has a salon-like feel with historic windows at the front of the house and floor-to-ceiling windows open to the private balcony while a fireplace adds warmth and presence. Refined materials and understated finishes create a living and dining experience that feels both intimate and grand, equally suited to quiet introspective moments or elegant entertaining. A limited palette of finished and organic materials including white oak flooring, Venetian plaster walls, gallery lighting, and a blackened metal stair rail that matches the hearths of the home’s two fireplaces and contributes to a general sense of calm and focus. Organized around a dramatic, sculptural staircase—skylit from above—the home is anchored by its sinuous curvature, which links the floors together and offers a counterpoint to the rectilinear structure. Southern light cascades through the space, illuminating every level. Ascending a level, the serene primary suite features a wall of floor-to-ceiling casement-style glass that opens to a private balcony overlooking the garden. A fireplace adds an element of quiet luxury, while remote-controlled electric and blackout shades provide effortless comfort. A custom walk-in closet blends both functionality and elegance. The en-suite bath is enveloped in Bardiglio Nuvolato stone, wrapping the floors, walls, tub surround, and vanity in rich, tonal texture. Radiant heated floors, a sculptural soaking tub, and a steam-equipped shower room complete this spa-like retreat. This level also includes a wet bar with Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers and Nero Marquina marble counters. The former owner’s private office with master craftsman level millwork, a hidden television and bookcases as well as additional wall space ideal for displaying art. The top floor meanwhile is flooded with light through an incredible transom-like midcentury-style windows above the top of the staircase. On one side of the floor is a large, fully equipped home gym with a powder room. On the other side is a perfectly sized guest suite featuring en-suite bath with Duravit and Dornbracht fixtures, a Kalista soaking tub and large stone slabs. Back on the garden level, the kitchen features a professional-grade 48” Viking range, twin Miele wall ovens, and separate Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer units for generous cold storage. Carrara marble countertops offer a timeless blend of elegance and durability. A discreet butler’s pantry with an additional sink and ice maker enhances both function and flow, making entertaining effortless. Just beyond, the garden-level bedroom includes an en-suite bath adorned with Dornbracht sink faucets and shower fixtures. French doors open onto a lushly landscaped garden designed by Piet Oudolf with mature plantings and ample space for al fresco dining beneath the trees. With the added convenience of a private elevator, seamless access to every floor ensures ease and comfort throughout the home. The finished basement, clean and dry, houses the home’s mechanical and sound systems along with abundant storage. The original brick facade was meticulously restored in 2013, and the front is adorned with bluestone pavers equipped with a snow-melt system. Located in West Chelsea, 344 West 22nd is the rarest of offerings for those with discerning taste and is available by private appointment only.