101 West 81st Street, 524

It's all about the location

The Endicott sits at the northwest corner of 81st Street and Columbus Avenue, directly across from the American Museum of Natural History and Theodore Roosevelt Park, including its separate dog run, and just one block from Central Park. It is difficult to imagine a more quintessential Upper West Side setting.

There is something unexpected about #524: you are in the heart of the Upper West Side, yet once you step inside, the city seems to disappear.

Facing away from the street and overlooking the building's interior courtyard, this two-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home is pin-drop quiet, a genuine oasis in one of Manhattan's most vibrant neighborhoods. South and western exposures bring lovely natural light into the apartment throughout the day.

The centerpiece is the spacious, loft-like living/dining room, where high ceilings, exposed brick walls and a beautiful working brick fireplace give the space warmth and true character. There is ample room for both generous seating and a large dining table, making this a home that works equally well for entertaining and everyday life.

The large open kitchen connects naturally to the living and dining areas, while hardwood floors and good closet space throughout further complement the apartment. There are two large bedrooms, with both sharing the same remarkably peaceful interior setting.

Laundry could hardly be more convenient: the washer and dryer are just around the corner on the same floor. For those who prefer laundry within the apartment, washer/dryers are also permitted with Board approval.

A prewar cooperative with a 24-hour attended lobby and live-in superintendent, the Endicott was originally built at the turn of the 20th century as the Hotel Endicott, and later reimagined by architect Stephen B. Jacobs, who modernized its 144 residences while preserving the character of the original design. Today, The Endicott retains a distinctive prewar presence, with an ornate orange and beige brick facade, projecting bay windows and a columned entrance that reflects its history. Perfectly located with Columbus Avenue's restaurants, cafés and shopping begin right outside your door, while the M79 crosstown bus stops across the street, the B/C subway is down the block, and the 1 train is also nearby.

Pets and pied-à-terre ownership are permitted.

For someone who wants to be in the middle of everything but doesn't necessarily want to hear it, #524 offers a particularly appealing combination: space, character, light and extraordinary quiet in one of the best locations on the Upper West Side.