SOLD FOR $9,300,000
Listed at $12,995,000 · Sold 28.4% below asking · Closed September 27, 2024
121 E 81st Street
MLS® #RLS10950244
Listing by Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc
5
Bedrooms
9.5
Baths
9,400
Sq. Ft.
1899
Year Built
Quick Summary
Property Highlights
- Views: Park Greenbelt, Garden
- Exposure: North facing
- Character: Pre-war building (1899)
Property Details
Description
37' of Frontage on 81st Street Not Landmarked or in a Historic District PRICED TO SELL Situated in the heart of the Upper East Side on a lovely townhouse block just off Park Avenue sit two contiguous townhouses located at 121-125 East 81st Street. This very unique and seldom found 37' x 102’ lot that spans both townhouses and encompasses roughly 9,400 square feet above grade is and for sale for the first time in many decades. Originally constructed in 1899, this remarkable five story property was the private residence and office of a very famous designer and music entrepreneur who lived in both as a primary residence and personal office. Below are the details of each of the houses: 121 East 81st Street - Dimensions: 20’ x 50’ - Stories: 5 - Approx. 5,390 sqft (above grade) - Lot: 20’ x 102.17’ (2,043 sqft lot) - Zoning: R8B - Annual Taxes: $75,966 - Residential FAR: 4 - Maximum usable floor area (subject to verification): 8,172 sqft - Not landmarked 125 East 81st Street - Dimensions: 17’ x 44’ - Stories: 4 - Approx. 3,984 sqft (above grade) - Lot: 17’ x 102.17’ (1,737 sqft lot) - Zoning: C1-8X - Annual Taxes: $71,429 - Residential FAR: 4 - Maximum usable floor area (subject to verification): 6,948 sqft - Not landmarked Located in a 4 FAR zone, these townhouses have a total allowable buildable size of 15,000 sq ft (subject to approvals) offering prospective buyers endless opportunities for reimagining and reconfiguration of the space and the chance to make their own mark on this prestigious property. Whether as a private residence, a live/work space, or a new construction project, the possibilities are as vast as the property's potential especially in light of the fact that the properties are not landmarked or in a historic district. Please note that the two houses are still two separate tax lots but have been opened between the two houses on both the third and fourth floors. The buildings have been immaculately maintained and will be delivered vacant. This is a co-exclusive with Lauren Muss.
Features & Amenities
Interior Features
Exterior Features
Building Amenities
Building Information
Financial Details
About Upper East Side
View All Upper East Side ListingsThe Upper East Side remains the gold standard for classic New York elegance. Known for 'Museum Mile' and its quiet, tree-lined streets, the neighborhood offers a refined lifestyle away from the midtown bustle. While famous for its historic cooperatives, the area has seen a recent surge in ultra-luxury new construction condos, particularly along the Second Avenue Subway corridor, making it a top choice for both traditionalists and modern buyers.
Upper East Side Live Market Data
View NeighborhoodActive Listings
328
Median Asking Price
$1.29M
Median $/Sqft
$1,426
Avg Days on Market
N/A
New This Week
20
Price Reduced
23%
Sold (30 Days)
35
Median Sale Price
$1.39M
Live data from RLS at REBNY • Updated 3/25/26, 8:15 PM EST
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Location
121 E 81st Street, Upper East Side, New York County • Near 505 Park Avenue
Floor Plans
Listing Data
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Market Data
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Listing Courtesy of Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc - Lydia Rosengarten
Listing Contact: (212) 371-8200
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RLS Data display by Keller Williams NYC. Data last updated on 3/26/2026 at 12:15 AM UTC