The Abbey Condominium,
205 East 16th Street

Overview of The Abbey Condominium at 205 East 16th Street

The Abbey Condominium at 205 East 16th Street is a striking Romanesque Revival landmark that blends history with modern luxury. Originally built in 1888 as the parish house of St. George’s Church, it was designed by Charles Otto Blesch with interiors by Leopold Eidlitz. Its rugged, castle-like presence—complete with brownstone façades, arched openings, finials, and a prominent pyramid roof—makes it one of the most distinctive buildings in Gramercy.

Converted into 31 condominium residences in 2005 by Herbert W. Hirsch Enterprises Inc., the Abbey offers a unique living experience steeped in New York history. Its location, adjacent to the gated Stuyvesant Square Park, places residents in the heart of one of the city’s most charming and historically rich neighborhoods. Nearby, the bustling Union Square Greenmarket, Paragon Sports, and the quaint shops and restaurants of Gramercy and Irving Place add to its appeal.

The Abbey Condominium provides modern comforts while maintaining its historic charm. Amenities include a full-time doorman, video security, a live-in superintendent, and a pet-friendly policy. Each apartment is unique, many featuring dramatic double-height ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate architectural details that nod to the building’s ecclesiastical past. Washer/dryer units are included in all residences.

St. George’s Church has deep roots in New York’s religious and social history. Established as a chapel of Trinity Church in 1749, it became an independent Episcopal parish in 1822 and relocated to Stuyvesant Square in 1846. The church’s towering spires, visible from the East River, once served as a beacon for the neighborhood.

The church played a significant role in social reform, led by the Rev. William Stephen Rainsford in the late 19th century. Rainsford abolished pew rentals, expanded social services, and launched outreach programs for the city’s poor. J.P. Morgan, a prominent congregant and senior warden, financially supported these efforts. In fact, the land for the Abbey was gifted to the church by Morgan himself for just one dollar.

St. George’s Church has also been a venue for high-profile weddings, including Juliet Morgan’s 1894 wedding, which The New York Times described as “the most fashionable and beautiful of all the Spring weddings.” Later, in 1957, the church hosted the nuptials of Ann Phipps and Constantine Sidamon-Eristoff, linking it once again to American aristocracy.

While the church’s congregation merged with others in 1975, its former parish house found new life as a residential haven. It briefly served as a women’s residence in the 1960s before its eventual transformation into The Abbey Condominium. Today, it remains one of the most architecturally unique and historically significant buildings in Gramerc.