Built in 1849, this romantic home is on a celebrated row of late Greek Revival houses, each with 15' deep front lush green gardens behind a unified iron work railing going down the block; the effect is alluring and evocative. With a high stoop entrance to the parlor floor, and tall parlor windows, o...
Built in 1849, this romantic home is on a celebrated row of late Greek Revival houses, each with 15' deep front lush green gardens behind a unified iron work railing going down the block; the effect is alluring and evocative. With a high stoop entrance to the parlor floor, and tall parlor windows, one sees the beginning of the Italianate style of the 1850's.
From the Landmarks Designation Report: "In 1849-50, at the time of their erection, the residences at Nos. 437-459 West 24th Street were among the large and imposing houses in the area. Transitional in style, the houses display an interesting combination of features from both the earlier Greek Revival and newer Italianate modes. The basic proportions, however, are Greek Revival. Later 19th century modifications to some of the houses introduced Neo-Grec and Queen Anne features, followed by the popular neo-Federal style of the 20th century. In general, the houses retain their setback behind front yards, their original height, bold, modillioned roof cornices and ironwork--characteristics which contribute to the unity of the row, as a very special feature of the neighborhood and of Manhattan."
A spacious interior of this 21' wide house begins with the beautiful entry stairwell, and original wide plank floorboards all throughout the house. The front Parlor, with its warm wood moldings and marble classic fireplace leads to a rear Parlor-Kitchen, also with fireplace. There is a lovely powder room in the hallway.
The 2nd floor principal bedroom suite has an array of rooms: front bedroom, sitting area (both with fireplaces), closet and dressing area, and adjacent study, all giving wonderful flexibility to living space, and a windowed bath overlooking the garden to the rear.
The top floor has been used most recently as an artist's work space, complete with storage racks, a guest bedroom and full skylit bath, and separate large laundry room. An additional skylight brings sun to the stairwell.
On the garden level, which has a separate entrance under the stoop at street level, there is a separate apartment, with front bedroom and bath, as well as living room with fireplace, open kitchen, all facing onto the garden.
The truly delightful garden, accessible from both the Parlor floor and the Garden level is paved with flagstones and landscaped with hydrangeas, roses and wisteria.