51 Fifth Avenue

Overview of 51 Fifth Avenue

51 Fifth Avenue is a 16 story, 89 unit cooperative built in 1929 on the coveted corner of Fifth Avenue and 11th Street in Greenwich Village. Designed by Thomas Lamb, the renowned architect celebrated for his iconic theaters and cinemas, this prewar building was converted to a co-op in 1988. The building occupies a prime location directly across from two historic churches and offers residents full service amenities including a 24 hour doorman, live-in superintendent, fitness center, and bicycle storage.

The building's apartments showcase classic prewar charm enhanced by modern renovations, with wood burning fireplaces in many units, alongside beamed ceilings and hardwood floors. Some apartments feature western exposures with stunning views of the First Presbyterian Church. The apartments range from one bedroom units with gracious entrance galleries to expansive penthouses with multiple terraces and greenhouse spaces.

The building was home to notable Abstract Expressionist painter Jane Frelicher, who occupied a penthouse until her death in 2014. Frelicher was known for her light saturated still lifes and landscapes, and her Greenwich Village apartment served as inspiration for many of her cityscape works. Her circle included prominent New York poets Frank O'Hara, James Schuyler, and John Ashbery. Today, the building continues to attract sophisticated residents, including theater critic and scholar Elinor Fuchs, who thoughtfully redesigned one of the apartments.

The cooperative welcomes pets and permits pied-à-terre ownership and co-purchasing, making it accessible to a diverse range of buyers. Its location places residents steps from Washington Square Park, NYU, Union Square, and Greenwich Village's renowned dining and cultural offerings, cementing its status as one of lower Fifth Avenue's most desirable addresses.