SOLD FOR $5,795,000
· Sold at asking price · Closed March 20, 2026
$5,795,000
$1,128 per sq ft
126 W 78th Street
MLS® #RLS20060580
Listing by Compass
8
Bedrooms
7.5
Baths
5,139
Sq. Ft.
1910
Year Built
Sale Details
Property Summary
Description
Prime UWS Museum park block treasure - offering priceless heritage! Featured in renowned films and celebrated as one of Time Out Magazine’s best blocks in all of New York City, this home’s block exudes cinematic charm and authentic neighborhood prestige. A magnificent 19-foot landmark brownstone, conceived by the acclaimed Spanish architect and building engineer Rafael Guastavino, sits gracefully on one of the Upper West Side’s most highly-coveted, tree-lined blocks. Completed in 1886 in the Renaissance Revival tradition, the “Albert Lilienthal House” currently consists of an expansive owner's triplex spanning its first three levels, with two two-bedroom apartments on the fourth and fifth floors and a ground floor studio. All three market-rate rental units will be delivered vacant, alongside the owner's triplex. This exceptional opportunity suits the discerning investor or those seeking a generational family retreat, complete with a spacious three-bedroom, three and a half bath residence. Alternatively, there’s potential to restore the residence to its grand single-family design. This multi-family brownstone, spanning a total of 5,139 square feet, gracefully combines historic architectural beauty with contemporary amenities. Owner’s Triplex: Step through the residence’s private gated entry, tucked gracefully beneath its elegant dog-legged front stoop, and be greeted by the welcoming character of exposed brick and the generous height of wainscot ceilings that crown the warm family space. The triplex’s thoughtful three-bedroom layout seamlessly connects two spacious, sun-filled living areas adorned with a refined interplay of hardwood and ceramic flooring. Upon entering, the first floor features a high-ceilinged, bright and airy family room, perfectly situated just off its casement-windowed kitchen. The inviting and thoughtfully designed kitchen boasts a Sub-Zero refrigerator, stainless steel appliances, and a glass-ceilinged dining area bathed in natural light. Whether preparing a family feast or savoring a leisurely breakfast, this chef’s eat-in kitchen serves as a warm gathering hub. A charming office nook provides the perfect corner for daily correspondence or for children to study as meals take shape. A powder room sits discreetly off the home's entry, while the adjacent family room opens onto a tranquil private patio - an ideal retreat for morning coffee, weekend brunches, or intimate evenings with friends. Ascending to the parlor floor, discover the home’s gracious formal living room, a guest bedroom with full en-suite bath, and a luminous solarium-style office. Sunlight pours through the office’s east-facing casement window and glass-beamed ceiling, creating an inspiring space for work or relaxation. The adjoining living room impresses with its soaring ceilings, a handsome fireplace, a sweeping, south-facing window, and a distinguished wall of built-ins that convey effortless elegance. The upper level is devoted to the serene primary suite, where three large south-facing windows bathe the bedroom with golden light. A generous walk-in closet and en-suite bath complete the refined tranquility of the primary. A second bedroom and its own full bath share this floor, and this quiet bedroom suite includes its own peaceful sitting area that can serve beautifully as a nursery, study, or private reading retreat. A laundry room with washer and dryer also grace this floor. Studio, Fourth and Fifth Floor Apartments: The ground-floor studio, accessible through a separate entry, exudes classic pre-war charm with a whitewashed brick accent wall and a fully equipped kitchenette. Its bathroom is discreetly located down the hall, featuring a bathtub. The fourth and fifth floor residences, reached via the stoop’s main entrance, are similarly arranged and showcase spacious living rooms with lovely windows overlooking West 78th Street’s beautifully detailed, heritage brownstones. Kitchens adjoin the living areas, with both apartment
Property Details
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Listing courtesy of Julie Harding at Compass. Listing information for certain New York City properties provided courtesy of the Real Estate Board of New York's Residential Listing Service (the "RLS"). The information contained in this listing has not been verified by the RLS and should be verified by the consumer. The listing information provided here is for the consumer's personal, non-commercial use. Retransmission, redistribution or copying of this listing information is strictly prohibited except in connection with a consumer's consideration of the purchase and/or sale of an individual property. This listing information is not verified for authenticity or accuracy and is not guaranteed and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. ©2026 The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc., all rights reserved. This advertisement does not suggest that the broker has a listing in this property or properties or that any property is currently available. This information is not verified for authenticity or accuracy and is not guaranteed and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. ©2026 The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc., All rights reserved.