Description

There are homes. And then, there are icons.

Welcome to 169 East 71st Street, a landmarked, turn-of-the-century townhouse that doesn't just sit on one of the Upper East Side's most enchanting blocks-it defines it. Immortalized as the backdrop to Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's, this legendary residence offers more than cinematic history-it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a reimagined piece of New York.

Gracing a picture-perfect, tree-lined street between Lexington and Third Avenues, this five-story townhouse-with elevator, fully built-out basement, and approximately 4,465 square feet of meticulously designed interiors-has been transformed through a three-year, no-expense-spared renovation and restoration.

This two-family home features a 30-foot landscaped garden with custom latticework, two setback terraces, four bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and three powder rooms. Original architectural details blend seamlessly with refined upgrades: soaring 10+ foot ceilings, white oak herringbone floors with ebony inlay, two gas fireplaces, central air conditioning, two laundry rooms, and a wine cellar with twin Liebherr wine and food refrigerators.

Parlor Floor:
The formal parlor is a statement in elegance, with period mantels, beamed ceilings, and custom millwork. White oak herringbone flooring with an ebony border anchors the space, while antique chandeliers and designer lighting from Porta Romana create a warm, refined glow. The living room features a burnished silver leaf ceiling and a concealed television hidden behind a hand-pieced antique mirror-combining luxury and discretion in equal measure. The dining area offers a built-in banquette, and the parlor-level gas fireplace adds intimate charm.

Kitchen, Parlor Floor:
A true chef's kitchen features Calacatta Gold marble countertops, a 6-burner Wolf range with vented hood, Sub-Zero refrigerator, Miele dishwasher, and custom cabinetry. A center island with seating is paired with an exquisite Calacatta Oro marble mosaic backsplash imported from Italy.

Third Floor:
Two well-proportioned bedrooms each enjoy ensuite, spa-like baths. One showcases Thassos marble and a jewel glass waterjet mosaic in Labradorite and Alabaster. The second offers double vanities, honed Carrara marble, and Thassos tile flooring. Plumbing fixtures from Kallista and Waterworks. Ceiling heights on this level reach 9 feet.

Fourth Floor - Primary Suite:
The king-sized primary suite is a private retreat with a gas fireplace, antique mantel, custom dressing area, and makeup vanity. The ensuite bathroom is a true sanctuary, featuring Calacatta Gold Damask-patterned marble, a deep walk-in shower, and a freestanding soaking tub by Crosswater London with a polished nickel exterior. The suite is further elevated with wood veneer wallpaper and a 247-square-foot terrace at the northern wing.

Fifth Floor:
A full-floor den with wet bar, wine fridge, custom cabinetry, and half bath flows to a 123-square-foot south-facing terrace with charming views of 71st Street. A Juliet balcony off the rear adds a finishing touch.

Garden Unit - Street Level:
With its own private entrance, the second residence includes exposed brick, built-in bookshelves, a cozy den, and a large bedroom. The open kitchen features stainless steel appliances, a dining banquette, and direct access to a 466-square-foot landscaped garden with custom Walpole lattice fencing and stonework.

Basement Level:
Fully dug out and nearly 8 feet in height, the basement level includes a powder room, mechanicals, second laundry room, and a wine cellar with two Liebherr wine fridges, built-in benches, a sink, and cold storage.

Whether you're hosting in the grand parlor, sipping espresso on the terrace, or simply enjoying the rarefied character of this home's history and craftsmanship-169 East 71st Street is more than a residence. It's an experience.

They say you can't buy history. At 169 East 71st, you sort of can.