Updated 4 days ago
In contract

The Galaxy

51 West 81st Street, 3-A

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

Junior 1 3 Rooms1 Bed1 Bath550 Square FeetCo-op

$749,000
Maintenance$1,042
Price Per SF
$1,362

Listing Features

  • Entry Foyer
  • French Doors
  • Moldings
  • Picture Windows
  • Dishwasher
  • Open Kitchen
  • Soaking Tub

Outdoor space and views

  • City Views
  • Treeline Views
  • West Exposure

Building Amenities

  • Part-Time Doorman
  • Bike Storage
  • Elevator
  • Laundry Per Floor
  • Renovated Lobby
  • Roof Deck
  • Storage

Policies

  • Pets Allowed
  • Pieds A Terre Ok

Property Description for 51 West 81st Street, 3-A

Designer Pied-à-Terre at The Galaxy

Designed by acclaimed interior designer Kelly Giesen, this remarkable residence is a masterclass in thoughtful, space-conscious design, where every inch has been carefully considered without sacrificing warmth, elegance, or functionality.

Situated in the iconic Galaxy, this small, delightful 1-bedroom home enjoys 9-foot ceilings, oversized picture windows, and leafy treetop views overlooking beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture.

Every architectural element was thoughtfully curated, from antique doors and mirrored cabinets, to bespoke moldings. The open kitchen, dining, and living areas flow seamlessly together, creating a home that lives far larger than it's footprint!

The custom kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful, featuring signature backlit cabinets, handcrafted cabinetry, integrated Viking, Miele, and Sub-Zero (hidden!) under-cabinet fridge and dishwasher, and elegant Calacatta Gold marble countertops and backsplash. Bathed in natural light, the living room is anchored by a striking custom reclaimed mantel that lends warmth and character to the space.

Residents of The Galaxy enjoy exceptional white-glove service, including a full-time doorman, concierge, resident manager, and one of the Upper West Side's most spectacular landscaped roof decks with sweeping city views. The hallways were recently renovated. There are washer/dryers on every floor.

Ideally positioned directly across from the American Museum of Natural History and moments from Central Park, Riverside Park, Lincoln Center, and the neighborhood's celebrated dining and shopping, this is an extraordinary opportunity to own a truly distinctive designer home in one of the Upper West Side's most coveted full-service cooperatives. Pets, gifting, co-purchase, pied a terre permitted case by case with board approval. This is a broker owned apartment.


Listing History for 51 West 81st Street, 3-A

Now
08/06/2026
Contract Signed by Emily Margolin
Douglas Elliman
07/16/2026
$749,000
Initial Price by Emily Margolin
Douglas Elliman

Building Details for 51 West 81st Street

OwnershipCo-op
Building TypeMid-Rise
Service LevelPart-Time Doorman
AgePre-War
AccessElevator
Year Built1903
Financing Allowed75%
Floors/Apts13/111
Learn More About the Building

Transit and Citi Bike

Subway

81 St-Museum of Natural History
0.17 miles
79 St
0.31 miles
86 St
0.32 miles
86 St
0.38 miles

Citi Bike

W 82 St & Central Park W
0.15 miles
Amsterdam Ave & W 82 St
0.19 miles

Building Availability

APPSF
Median
Average
$1,362
$699,000
$1,335,750
Last 12 months
$1,221
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-
Last 12 months
-
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AlcoveStudio in Upper West Side

APPSF
Median
Average
$1,138
$482,000
$482,000
$1,184
$595,000
$607,556

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.

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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: 42599