36 Gramercy Park East

Overview of 36 Gramercy Park East

36 Gramercy Park East stands as one of Manhattan's most distinguished pre-war buildings, designed by renowned architect James Riely Gordon and completed in 1909. This Gothic Revival masterpiece is instantly recognizable by its white terra cotta façade adorned with gargoyles, pointed arches, and over 120 decorative putti flanking heraldic shields. The building's unique U-shaped design creates a deep central courtyard that gives the impression of twin towers, while custom-made gas lanterns at the entrance are exact replicas of the original 1908 fixtures. Originally built with 24 spacious apartments featuring nine rooms and three baths with servant quarters, the building has earned the nickname "Grand Dame of the Park."

The building boasts an impressive roster of notable residents throughout its history, including actor John Barrymore, sculptor Daniel Chester French, playwright Eugene O'Neill, and one of the Ringling Brothers. More recently, "Big Bang Theory" star Jim Parsons has called the building home. After entering bankruptcy in 1946 and operating as rentals for decades, the building underwent a meticulous conversion to luxury condominiums in 2009 under Maurice Mann of Mann Realty Associates, creating 53 units while carefully preserving its historic character and architectural details.

Apartments at 36 Gramercy Park East feature classic pre-war elegance with modern luxury finishes. Many units boast multiple bay windows offering direct park views, decorative fireplaces and herringbone hardwood floors. Larger units often feature formal dining rooms, multiple en-suite bathrooms, and generous walk-in closets, with some apartments spanning over 2,000 square feet.

The building offers white-glove service with a 24-hour doorman and concierge, bicycle storage, and is pet-friendly. Most importantly, residents receive the coveted key to Gramercy Park, Manhattan's only private park. Located in the heart of Gramercy, the building provides easy access to Union Square, Madison Square Park, fine dining, and excellent transportation options, making it one of the most prestigious addresses in the neighborhood.