215 East 17th Street, 2

Tucked inside a 19th-century townhouse on one of Gramercy's most picturesque, tree-lined blocks, this one-bedroom duplex has the kind of character that can't be manufactured: exposed brick, ornamental tin ceilings, a marble wood-burning fireplace, and just enough downtown edge to keep all that historic charm from feeling too precious. Designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group, the home is equal parts romantic hideaway and sophisticated city retreat.

The parlor-level living space is warm, intimate, and beautifully considered, with custom built-ins and a sleek stainless-steel kitchen featuring appliances by Miele, Gaggenau and U-Line. Downstairs, the bedroom becomes its own private escape, complete with custom closets, a wraparound built-in desk and an in-unit Miele washer and dryer. The Japanese-inspired bathroom may be the apartment's most unexpected indulgence, with a river-rock soaking tub and rainfall shower, radiant heated floors, and fixtures by Duravit and Watermark. Dual-zone heating and air conditioning, Bose surround sound and thoughtful custom details throughout make the home as comfortable as it is memorable.

From this leafy, landmarked stretch of East 17th Street, the best of downtown Manhattan seems unfolds in every direction. Gramercy Park, Stuyvesant Square and Union Square are all nearby, along with neighborhood restaurants, cafés, markets and effortless transportation. It is close to everything, yet once inside, the city feels wonderfully removed.

Set within an intimate, pet-friendly, self-managed cooperative, the apartment also comes with remarkably low monthly maintenance of just $834. For anyone who has ever imagined a life in a classic New York townhouse, but would prefer it with a designer kitchen, soaking tub and washer/dryer, this might be the next best thing.