The Future of Living: Designer smart homes in prewar NYC buildings

By CityRealty Staff | From Future New York Monday, December 8, 2025

Various designer smart homes on the market now in NYC

Over the past decade, the Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed traditional living spaces into smart homes, where various systems—such as temperature, lighting, security, and entertainment—are seamlessly controlled through centralized interfaces like wall panels or smartphone apps. This technology brings to mind futuristic visions from shows like "The Jetsons." Leading brands in this space include Savant, Crestron, Lutron, and Control4.

Advancements in technology have made the installation of smart home systems more accessible. Some builders and designers now seamlessly incorporate these technologies into new residential developments. For instance, One United Nations Park features built-in Crestron systems in every unit. More commonly, developers integrate basic features like smart thermostats and locks, allowing buyers to customize additional functionalities as desired.

A fully integrated smart home typically comprises three key components:

Central Hub: This serves as the command center, enabling control of all connected devices. It can be a dedicated control panel or a personal smartphone or tablet.

Compatible Software: Software that synchronizes and manages the smart devices. While many pre-configured systems offer proprietary software, those opting for a DIY approach should ensure compatibility between their chosen apps, devices, and the central hub.

Smart Devices: These include a range of gadgets, from energy-efficient thermostats and video doorbells to multi-room speakers and automated lighting systems, tailored to the user's preferences.

The prevalence of smart home technology is increasing in new developments. However, residents of older buildings can also adopt these innovations. Earlier iterations of smart home setups often required invasive installations, which posed challenges in certain housing contexts. Today, wireless solutions that don't necessitate permanent fixtures or landline connections are available, making them suitable for various types of apartments.

The following listings showcase properties in both contemporary and pre-war buildings, each equipped with smart home technology and with a sticker price under $2 million.

Select prewar NYC homes with smart home technology and central heating

160 East 91st Street, #8A
$550,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

160 East 91st Street, #8A (Serhant)

From the Listing: Perched on the top floor of a well-maintained prewar cooperative, Residence 8A is a bright and inviting one-bedroom home with open southern views and all-day sunlight. This comfortable and move-in-ready apartment combines modern convenience with classic charm, featuring smart home technology and reflective privacy window film for added comfort and energy efficiency. See floor plan and full details here.

372 Fifth Avenue, #5L
$949,000 (-2.7%)

Midtown West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

372 Fifth Avenue, #5L (Compass)

From the Listing: Mint condition loft with soaring 12ft ceilings and bright eastern sunlight. Renovated in 2022, this dramatic loft features wide-plank floors throughout creating a seamless flow from kitchen to living room spanning more than 40ft. The open concept layout allows for ease in entertaining and living with the bedroom enclosed behind beautifully designed floor-to-ceiling wrought iron glass doors. See floor plan and full details here.

398 13th Street, #4B
$959,000 (-4%)

Park Slope | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

398 13th Street, #4B (Hauseit LLC)

From the Listing: Cheerfully Updated and Move in Ready with smart home automation, 2 bedroom, 1 bath in a small, well-maintained, pet-friendly co-op, just one block from PS 107, in the heart of Park Slope. Set on a quiet fourth floor, enter into a charming, sunny living room with wide-planked wood floors, exceptional window light, Warm dimmed recessed lights, and an adjoining kitchen, featuring porcelain tiled floors, Liebherr fridge, gas KitchenAid stove, ceiling-high storage, and a beautiful versatile eat-at waterfall-style caesarstone dining counter. See floor plan and full details here.

District, #808
$1,194,000

Financial District | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,243 ft²

District, #808 (Serhant)

From the Listing: Welcome to Residence 808 at The District, a 1-bedroom plus den, 2-bath home in one of Downtown Manhattan's most stylish full-service condominiums. This spacious residence features soaring 12-foot ceilings and oversized windows that flood the space with natural light. The home offers spa-like bathrooms with double vanities and a versatile den that can serve as a guest room, second bedroom, or home office. See floor plan and full details here.

Austin Nichols House, #C406
$1,200,000

Williamsburg | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 717 ft²

Austin Nichols House, #C406 (Compass)

From the Listing: Beautifully renovated and appointed one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment available in Williamsburg’s iconic Austin Nichols House. Experience loft living in a warehouse conversion directly on the Williamsburg waterfront. See floor plan and full details here.

172 West 82nd Street, #2A
$1,285,000 (-3%)

Broadway Corridor | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

172 West 82nd Street, #2A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Stunningly renovated and thoughtfully designed, this two-bedroom, one-bathroom residence at 172 West 82nd Street #2A blends the historic charm of an Upper West Side brownstone with the comfort of modern living. Originally built in 1900, this intimate and well-maintained brownstone offers timeless details, including soaring 11-foot ceilings, exposed brick, a wood-burning fireplace, and gleaming hardwood floors throughout. The parlor-level home was recently updated with extensive renovations, creating a turn-key opportunity for its next owner. See floor plan and full details here.

NINE52, #TH213
$1,495,000

Midtown West | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,046 ft²

NINE52, #TH213 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Excellent Value! This is an incredible opportunity to own a large duplex in a full service amenity building. This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath with a home office/3rdbedroom expands across 2 floors that look into the building's Zen garden. The residence has a multi-zone HVAC system with individual climate control, Smart home technology, and Energy efficient water heat pump system. See floor plan and full details here.

434 Throop Avenue, #2
$1,895,000

Bedford-Stuyvesant | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,806 ft²

434 Throop Avenue, #2 (Compass)

From the Listing: Live your best life at 434 Throop Ave, #2: your meticulously renovated, passive-house inspired 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom triplex with private rooftop deck and massive balcony in the heart of Bedford-Stuyvesant. This modern, sustainably-designed home is 1806 SF of pure luxury and functionality featuring 5’’ solid white oak plank hardwood floors, high ceilings, radiant heated bathroom floors, in-unit washers and energy efficient ventless electric heat pump dryers. See floor plan and full details here.

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28 Wellington Court, #House
$1,995,000 (-13.3%)

Flatbush | House | 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,900 ft²

28 Wellington Court, # (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Set on a leafy cul-de-sac in Ditmas Park, this beautifully restored Victorian is a rare single-family offering that blends timeless character with modern comfort. Thoughtful updates include new windows, plumbing, electrical, heating, and mechanicals, allowing for a seamless move-in. Smart home features and a recently landscaped backyard add to the everyday ease and enjoyment. See floor plan and full details here.

665 Degraw Street, #2
$2,100,000

Park Slope | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,092 ft²

665 Degraw Street, #2 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Experience the essence of refined Brooklyn living at 665 DeGraw Street, a boutique condominium located on one of Park Slope's most beautiful blocks. Residence 2 is a thoughtfully designed three-bedroom, two-bath home offering modern sophistication, seamless functionality, and understated luxury. Upon entry, you're bestowed a stunning 25-foot living and dining area-a versatile space equally suited for quiet evenings or lively gatherings. Wide 9-inch Coquina European White Oak flooring runs throughout, creating a sense of flow and contemporary elegance. See floor plan and full details here.

The Atelier, #4M
$3,495,000 (-6.8%)

Central Park West | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

The Atelier, #4M (Compass)

From the Listing: Stunning, newly renovated and never lived in, this 3BD/3BA residence meticulously combines prewar details with modern enhancements – and at an amazingly low monthly maintenance. The oversized living room with Chevron French white oak flooring flows beautifully into a spacious dining room creating a 34’2” long great room. Dramatic new 11’ floor-to-ceilings windows frame the space which has 12’ ceilings.The rooms also feature an antique 19th century white marble decorative fireplace, originally from NYC’s famed Plaza Hotel, topped with a 19th century Louis-Phillipe gold-trimmed mirror. Adjacent is a bar with Zephyr wine fridge, seating for two and LED-lit library shelving for your collections. See floor plan and full details here.

The Zachary, #1E
$2,800,000 (-6.5%)

East Village | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,400 ft²

The Zachary, #1E (Compass)

From the Listing: Convertible 3 Bedroom - A Suburban-Scale Architecturally Designed and Fully Renovated Triplex Loft Home in the East Village at the boutique Zachary Condominium – Steps from Union Square! Pin drop quiet and completely modernized, this stunning over-sized 2-3 bedroom 2.5 bath triplex loft covers an expansive 2,400 square feet over 3 separate levels and features a private garden/patio. See floor plan and full details here.

63 Greene Street, #2D
$3,695,000 (-.1%)

SoHo | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,630 ft²

63 Greene Street, #2D (Conquest)

From the Listing: Welcome to this newly built (2024), impeccably designed loft with doorman on the most coveted block in SoHo. 2D is nestled within the historic 1877 Silk Industry Showroom Building — a quintessential SoHo gem where prewar character meets contemporary sophistication. Spanning an impressive 1,630 square feet, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence has been meticulously gut-renovated and offers an extraordinary blend of architectural grandeur and cutting-edge smart home technology. See floor plan and full details here.

128 East 38th Street, #1
$4,450,000

Murray Hill | Townhouse | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths

128 East 38th Street, #1 (Realmart Realty LLC)

From the Listing: 128 East 38th Street is an elegantly renovated, 20-foot-wide single-family townhouse with a private elevator, located on a quiet residential block between Park and Lexington Avenues. Originally constructed in 1868 by architects D. & J. Jardine and developer Abraham B.Embury, this home was one of five Second Empire-style brownstones on East 38th Street. Its handsome brick faade with a pedimented entryway and first-story oriel bay window dates to a 2001 exterior redesign. The current interior layout was completely reimagined and rebuilt to modern standards through an extensive, high-quality renovation completed in 2020. See floor plan and full details here.

30 West 15th Street, #9S
$4,795,000

Chelsea | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,500 ft²

30 West 15th Street, #9S (Compass)

From the Listing: As featured in Architectural Digest and designed by AD100 Designer Neal Beckstedt. Welcome to an exceptional residence with nearly “50 Shades of Grey” in a former printer building, where industrial architecture meets an impeccable renovation, and no detail was left behind. This expansive loft is a true masterpiece, framed by original cast-iron beams and soaring 10’11” beamed ceilings, with a corner south and west exposure.A suite of luxury finishes and smart home systems makes this home perfectly designed for effortless living and endless entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

260 Park Avenue South, #9J
$5,275,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,525 ft²

260 Park Avenue South, #9J (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Perched within one of the most prestigious pre-war condominiums on Park Avenue South, Residence 9J is a fully customized duplex offering an unparalleled fusion of architectural design, craftsmanship, and smart technology. This is a home where art, innovation, and comfort converge-every inch tailored with precision to create a lifestyle experience that is unmatched in today's market. See floor plan and full details here.

The Cass Gilbert, #18
$5,299,000 (-23.2%)

Chelsea | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 3,852 ft²

The Cass Gilbert, #18 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: A rare opportunity awaits on the 18th Floor of the landmarked Cass Gilbert Condominium: a grand, full-floor loft like residence, offering nearly 4,000 square feet of interior space and 913 square feet of private outdoor terraces. Designed for refined living and sophisticated entertaining, this home captures the essence of modern luxury high above the city. See floor plan and full details here.

The Park East, #PHB
$5,395,000 (-10%)

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,100 ft²

The Park East, #PHB (Platinum Properties)

From the Listing: Experience elevated living in this rare 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom penthouse located in the heart of NoMad. Designed by architect and designer David Nosanchuk, this meticulously crafted residence offers a seamless blend of luxury and tranquility, featuring a private rooftop oasis with skyline views, a year round plunge pool/spa, and lush landscaping with mature birch trees. Spanning approximately 2,100 square feet with soaring 10 foot ceilings, the interior layout is both open and functional. See floor plan and full details here.

The Park View, #15AB
$5,995,000 (-4.1%)

East Harlem | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 4,314 ft²

The Park View, #15AB (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Introducing Residence 15AB, a stunning fusion of modern design and timeless elegance in a premier Fifth Avenue condo building. This fully renovated, impeccably curated home redefines luxury living. With 11 expansive windows spanning 100 feet of direct views over Central Park and Fifth Avenue, the vistas are nothing short of spectacular, capturing the essence of New York City from every angle. This sophisticated residence currently features 3 bedrooms, easily adaptable to 4-bedrooms, with 4.5 opulent bathrooms.The interiors are graced with brand-new herringbone hardwood floors, custom stone tiles in the kitchen, and Waterworks-designed bathrooms, all seamlessly integrated with advanced smart home technology for the ultimate in convenience and style. See floor plan and full details here.

The Kea, #PH
$6,495,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,063 ft²

The Kea, #PH (Compass)

From the Listing: Crowning a landmarked 1835 Neo-Greco building, the Penthouse at 42 White Street is a bespoke two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence that pairs old-world character with highly curated modern design. Spanning the full floor with private terraces off every room and a full rooftop oasis, this home offers rare light, views, and indoor-outdoor living at the center of Tribeca. See floor plan and full details here.

76 Madison Avenue, #PH1
$6,995,000 (-6.7%)

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,632 ft²

76 Madison Avenue, #PH1 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Sophisticated Indoor-Outdoor Penthouse Living Welcome to PH1 at 76 Madison Avenue - an expansive and meticulously crafted 3-bedroom + home office, 3.5-bathroom residence with a rare wraparound terrace, striking skyline views, and elegant interior finishes. This expansive condominium blends sophisticated design with seamless indoor-outdoor living, all ideally situated near Madison Square Park, in the vibrant heart of NoMad. See floor plan and full details here.

46 Laight Street, #PH4
$8,495,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 4,113 ft²

46 Laight Street, #PH4 (Serhant)

From the Listing: Perched at the top of a boutique luxury development overlooking downtown Manhattan and Tribeca's Historic District, the Penthouse at Laight House is a 3,730-square-foot triplex featuring 3 oversized bedrooms, 3.5 meticulously renovated bathrooms, and 1,284 square feet of outdoor spaces spanning multiple terraces and a landscaped roof deck. See floor plan and full details here.

240 East 61st Street, #TH
$8,750,000

Lenox Hill | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, Unknown Baths | 4,835 ft²

240 East 61st Street, # (Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc)

From the Listing: Located in the Treadwell Farm Historic District, 240 East 61st Street is a beautifully designed contemporary townhouse. Rarely does one encounter this level of craftsmanship. Created with the discerning homeowner in mind, the residence is both elegant and versatile—perfect for entertaining formally or informally, while also offering an ideal setting to display fine art. Designed by Wayne Turett of the Turett Collaborative, the residence showcases a sleek, contemporary aesthetic rarely seen on the Upper East Side. See floor plan and full details here.

251 East 61st Street, #TH
$8,750,000 (-7.9%)

Lenox Hill | Townhouse | 5 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths | 4,106 ft²

251 East 61st Street, # (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Modern Architectural Townhouse with Private Carriage House Brilliantly marrying historic townhouse classicism and the best of modern design today- 251 East 61st Street is a completely reimagined townhouse and carriage house ensemble, a true private compound masterfully conceived by TRA Studio as a cohesive, design-forward single-family residence with guest house. The restoration undertaken by the current owner included expanding the townhome with an additional floor, which houses the Master Suite with amazing skyline views. See floor plan and full details here.

6 West 95th Street, #TH
$9,888,888 (-9.2%)

Central Park West | Townhouse | 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 5,016 ft²

6 West 95th Street, # (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: A New Townhouse Masterpiece by Central Park A rare offering of timeless elegance and contemporary perfection - 6 West 95th Street is a masterfully rebuilt never-lived-in single-family townhouse with an elevator and private garden on one of the most beautiful and peaceful tree-lined blocks on the Upper West Side. What a wonderful surprise awaits the fortunate buyer who opens the door behind the limestone facade to find a stunning gut-renovated contemporary interior with 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and two powder rooms. The home spans approximately 5,016 interior square feet plus an additional 1,000sf beautifully finished basement. See floor plan and full details here.

The Olcott, #1410
$11,650,000 (-2.1%)

Central Park West | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 4,176 ft²

The Olcott, #1410 (Reuveni LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to a truly exceptional residence at The Olcott, one of the Upper West Side’s most distinguished full-service pre-war condominiums. Just moments from Central Park, this meticulously crafted 4,176 square foot duplex offers the rare combination of expansive interior space, luxurious finishes, a nearly 800 SF private terrace, and the privacy and functionality of a townhouse — all within the comfort and security of a white-glove condominium. See floor plan and full details here.

26 West 95th Street, #TH
$12,495,000 (-3.1%)

Central Park West | Townhouse | 5 Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 6,700 ft²

26 West 95th Street, # (Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc)

From the Listing: Welcome to 26 West 95th Street, a meticulously renovated townhouse, originally built in 1892 by renowned architect Neville & Bagge, and located on one of the most desirable Upper West Side Central Park blocks. This home is in triple mint condition, boasting a 6 stop elevator, a Lutron Homeworks smart home system, Sonos sound system with a dedicated zone/amp for every room and exterior area, and sophisticated design, with soaring ceilings and thoughtfully designed spaces that create a bright and airy atmosphere. See floor plan and full details here.

115 West Broadway, #4
$15,000,000

Tribeca | Condop | 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 5,000 ft²

115 West Broadway, #4 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Tribeca Loft Masterpiece by Roman and Williams Occupying an entire floor of a discreet, boutique Tribeca condo-op, Residence 4 at 115 West Broadway is a breathtaking 5,000-square-foot loft offering extraordinary scale, soaring 11.5-foot ceilings, and an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. Designed by acclaimed design studio Roman and Williams, the residence underwent a meticulous multi-year gut renovation that transformed it into one of the most exceptional lofts in all of downtown Manhattan. See floor plan and full details here.

42 Barrow Street, #TH
$16,995,000

West Village | Townhouse | 4 Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 5,316 ft²

42 Barrow Street, # (Compass)

From the Listing: One of the only turnkey historic townhomes available in the West Village, this beautifully renovated 23-foot-wide, four-story showplace features four luxurious bedroom suites, exceptional designer interiors, an elevator and two levels of idyllic outdoor space on charming Barrow Street. See floor plan and full details here.

60 West 9th Street, #TH
$24,000,000

Greenwich Village | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, Unknown Baths | 7,000 ft²

60 West 9th Street, # (Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc)

From the Listing: In the heart of Greenwich Village, where Manhattan’s storied past meets the pulse of modern design, this masterfully reimagined 25-foot-wide, six-level townhouse stands as a rare offering of scale, sophistication, and architectural pedigree. Thoughtfully designed by Elizabeth Roberts Architects, this exceptional private residence blends historical grandeur with refined contemporary living. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

This is your member's center

In this article:

Benefits of Smart Homes:

A fully integrated smart home typically comprises three key components:

Select prewar NYC homes with smart home technology and central heating

160 East 91st Street, #8A
$550,000

372 Fifth Avenue, #5L
$949,000 (-2.7%)

398 13th Street, #4B
$959,000 (-4%)

District, #808
$1,194,000

Austin Nichols House, #C406
$1,200,000

172 West 82nd Street, #2A
$1,285,000 (-3%)

NINE52, #TH213
$1,495,000

434 Throop Avenue, #2
$1,895,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

28 Wellington Court, #House
$1,995,000 (-13.3%)

665 Degraw Street, #2
$2,100,000

The Atelier, #4M
$3,495,000 (-6.8%)

The Zachary, #1E
$2,800,000 (-6.5%)

63 Greene Street, #2D
$3,695,000 (-.1%)

128 East 38th Street, #1
$4,450,000

30 West 15th Street, #9S
$4,795,000

260 Park Avenue South, #9J
$5,275,000

The Cass Gilbert, #18
$5,299,000 (-23.2%)

The Park East, #PHB
$5,395,000 (-10%)

The Park View, #15AB
$5,995,000 (-4.1%)

The Kea, #PH
$6,495,000

76 Madison Avenue, #PH1
$6,995,000 (-6.7%)

46 Laight Street, #PH4
$8,495,000

240 East 61st Street, #TH
$8,750,000

251 East 61st Street, #TH
$8,750,000 (-7.9%)

6 West 95th Street, #TH
$9,888,888 (-9.2%)

The Olcott, #1410
$11,650,000 (-2.1%)

26 West 95th Street, #TH
$12,495,000 (-3.1%)

115 West Broadway, #4
$15,000,000

42 Barrow Street, #TH
$16,995,000

60 West 9th Street, #TH
$24,000,000

This is your member's center

In this article:

Benefits of Smart Homes:

A fully integrated smart home typically comprises three key components:

Select prewar NYC homes with smart home technology and central heating

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

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