312 E 53rd Street

An Enduring Manhattan Treasure, Landmarked Turtle Bay Townhouse with Extra-Large Garden Oasis

Built in 1866 by Robert and James Cunningham, 312 East 53rd Street is one of Manhattan’s last surviving wood-frame residences, a French Second Empire townhouse with a mansard roof and bracketed cornices, officially designated a New York City Landmark in 1968. The home has been carefully rehabilitated to preserve its original character, including wide-plank floors, fireplaces, and preserved millwork throughout.

While you have all the amazing character and charming detail inside, outside you step into a gloriously large garden, 70-ft deep, giving you your own oasis in New York City. With a storied history and many notable inhabitants over the years, including Lincoln Kirstein founder of the New York City Ballet, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a piece of NYC history and to add your own chapter to its story.

Garden Floor

A front entry hall leads to a spacious updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large dining area. The kitchen opens directly to a private, full-canopy garden with mature trees, lush landscaping, and a working fountain, creating a peaceful Midtown retreat. Ideal for outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxation, the 1,250-sq-ft bi-level garden also offers significant expansion potential. And of course, abundant room to roam for your happy dogs.

Parlour Floor

The formal stoop entrance opens to your main living space with 10-ft ceilings in a generously proportioned living room that flows into a rear library and study which is lined with built-in bookshelves overlooking the garden. The space is brightened by large window exposures and retains original architectural details including functional shutters, ornate carved wood mantels, exposed brick, and fireplaces. A powder room with a crystal chandelier completes the level.

Third Floor

Two well-proportioned bedrooms are bright and airy, including a front bedroom with a bonus room that functions as a large walk-in closet, nursery, or private study, adding flexible use for a variety of needs. The bedroom in the rear has great views into the lush garden and its own decorative fireplace. A windowed marble bathroom with double pedestal sinks and soaking tub completes the level.

Fourth Floor

The entire top floor is dedicated to a gracious primary retreat, entered through a skylit landing that brings in abundant light. The full primary bedroom features arched alcove windows and original exposed brick detailing, creating warmth and character throughout. Abundant built-in storage and multiple closets provide exceptional practicality, while the en-suite bath with double pedestal sinks and original tin ceiling offers a quiet sense of luxury. A flexible rear room serves equally well as a walk-in dressing room, private office, or sitting area.

Cellar

The cellar provides additional storage and utility space, along with laundry facilities, extra refrigeration, a cedar closet, and direct stair access to the garden.

*Select photos have been digitally staged.