The Oliver Cromwell, 12 West 72nd Street - Upper West Side
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The Oliver Cromwell is one of Manhattan's finest free-standing towers of the 1920s, a 30 story Italian Renaissance masterpiece designed by renowned architect Emery Roth and completed in 1927. Located at 12 West 72nd Street, this landmarked building features a distinctive green-glazed terra-cotta lantern on an octagonal drum that crowns its buff brick façade, creating what architectural historian Steven Ruttenbaum called a "majestic and powerful" presence despite its mid-block location. The building's two-story arched entrance and terra-cotta window surrounds at select floors exemplify Roth's sophisticated design approach, while setbacks at multiple levels create an elegant stepped silhouette.
Originally opened as a luxury hotel, the Oliver Cromwell faced significant financial challenges during the Great Depression, operating at less than 60 percent occupancy until 1932. The building was converted to a 172 unit co-op in 1984 and has since attracted notable residents including Sigourney Weaver and Stone Phillips. Recent lobby and elevator renovations have restored the building's 1920s grandeur, including the discovery and reproduction of antique ceramic frescoes depicting winged cherubs that now grace the formal lobby with its carved fireplace and elegant appointments.
Apartments typically feature 9 to 10 foot beamed ceilings, herringbone hardwood floors, and many offer views of the Dakota across the street and glimpses of Central Park, while upper floor apartments provide unobstructed city vistas. The building's three-floor penthouse with sprawling terrace represents the ultimate "mansion in the sky," featuring over 300 square feet of outdoor space and panoramic views from Central Park to the Hudson River.
The Oliver Cromwell offers white glove service with a 24 hour doorman, live-in superintendent, bike room, and central laundry facilities. The building welcomes pets and pied-à-terre ownership, permits 75% financing, and allows in-unit washer/dryer installation with board approval. Its prime location steps from Central Park, Lincoln Center, and the American Museum of Natural History, combined with convenient access to multiple subway lines, makes it a coveted address in the heart of the Upper West Side's historic district.
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For some co-ops, instead of price per square foot, we use an estimate of the number of rooms for each sold apartment to chart price changes over time. This is because many co-op listings do not include square footage information, and this makes it challenging to calculate accurate square-foot averages.
By displaying the price per estimated room count, we are able to provide a more reliable and consistent metric for comparing sales in the building. While we hope that this gives you a clearer sense of price trends in the building, all data should be independently verified. All data provided are only estimates and should not be used to make any purchase or sale decision.
Notable past and present residents at The Oliver Cromwell
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