Upstairs, Downstairs: 25 NYC homes with statement staircases

The Morgan Studios, #7C (Compass)

Tuesday, Jun 2, 2026 By CityRealty Staff, CityRealty contributor

Multi-level apartments offer something many single-floor homes can't: a greater sense of separation between living spaces. Bedrooms can feel more private, entertaining areas have room to breathe, and dramatic features like double-height ceilings, floating staircases, and lofted spaces often make a home feel larger than its square footage suggests. But stairs are the defining feature of any duplex, and they deserve as much scrutiny as the kitchen or primary bath.

The best staircases balance design and functionality. Wide, gently sloped stairs with substantial treads, sturdy railings, and good lighting are not only safer but more comfortable for everyday use. Buyers should pay close attention to how often they'll be going up and down, especially if the primary suite, laundry, or outdoor space is located on a different level.

Some stair designs prioritize aesthetics over practicality. Narrow spiral staircases, floating stairs with minimal railings, steep loft ladders, and glass treads can create a striking architectural statement, but they may not work for families with young children, older residents, pets, or anyone carrying groceries and luggage on a regular basis. Even details like patterned carpeting or poor lighting can make stairs more difficult to navigate.

When touring a duplex, triplex, quadruplex, or townhouse (lucky you!), think beyond the wow factor. Consider whether the staircase feels comfortable to use multiple times a day, whether furniture can be moved between floors, and whether the layout will still work for your lifestyle years from now. A beautiful staircase can definitely elevate a home's appeal, but a thoughtfully designed one can make it a pleasure to live in.

Find below a round-up of multi-level apartments on the market now with custom staircases.

235 East 49th Street, #5D
$499,000

Midtown East | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

235 East 49th Street, #5D (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Spacious, crisp, fully renovated one-bedroom duplex in a classic prewar building. Central air, open kitchen, dishwasher, and abundant natural Western light enhance this lovely home. The building offers modern laundry facilities and a landscaped roof deck.Part-time doorman. Located in the charming and convenient Turtle Bay Historic District, this block features a mix of townhouses, pre-war apartment buildings, and Instituto Cervantes, open to the public and located in Amster Yard-one of the city's prettiest and most peaceful hidden courtyards. A wide variety of local parks and gardens, as well as excellent dining and shopping, make this a fantastic neighborhood. Close to Grand Central Station and many cultural attractions. A true gem, this below-market listing will not last! See floor plan and full details here.

The Norfolk Arms, #2
$675,000

Lower East Side | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

The Norfolk Arms, #2 (Maz Group NY LLC)

From the Listing: Downtown character meets modern functionality in this quiet duplex retreat in the heart of the Lower East Side. Tucked away from the street, this unique home blends classic New York charm with a flexible layout designed for the way people live today.The main level, overlooking the courtyard, features exposed brick, hardwood floors, oversized windows, and an inviting living space with a warm, loft-like feel. A separate room on the upper level works perfectly as a home office, guest room, or creative studio — ideal for hybrid work or hosting friends without sacrificing your living space.A See floor plan and full details here.

342 East 53rd Street, #1G
$675,000

Midtown East | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 2 Baths

342 East 53rd Street, #1G (Compass)

From the Listing: Charm abounds in this beautifully renovated, move-in-ready one-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex residence. Thoughtfully designed, the first level features an inviting living and dining area anchored by a tastefully renovated open kitchen showcasing timeless white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and generous counter space—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

425 East 78th Street, #6F
$695,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths

425 East 78th Street, #6F (Compass)

From the Listing: Perched atop a pre-war elevator building on one of the quietest tree-lined blocks on the Upper East Side, this duplex one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath residence is the one that ends the search — including a wood-burning fireplace you didn't know to ask for. Soaring 13-foot ceilings and sun-drenched skylights set the tone from the moment you step inside. See floor plan and full details here.

The International Tailoring Company Building, #3A
$775,000

East Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The International Tailoring Company Building, #3A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Greenwich Village Loft Beautifully renovated and pin-drop quiet, this east-facing duplex loft is flooded with natural light throughout the day. The home features three original 10' x 10' factory-style casement windows and striking 13+ foot concrete beam ceilings, creating an authentic loft aesthetic. Concrete floors, currently finished with wood, add to the industrial character while maintaining warmth and livability. See floor plan and full details here.

215 East 17th Street, #2
$825,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

215 East 17th Street, #2 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Step into the pages of Old New York with this turnkey one-bedroom duplex designed by Rockwell Group, nestled within a 19th-century townhouse on one of Gramercy's most cinematic blocks. Just off the gates of Stuyvesant Square, this parlor-floor gem captures timeless charm and modern sophistication-with low monthly maintenance of only $740. See floor plan and full details here.

170 East 88th Street, #2B
$1,250,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 1,250 ft²

170 East 88th Street, #2B (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Step into this truly unique Upper East Side loft and you're immediately welcomed by an abundance of natural light. Dramatic loft-style ceilings, a striking 17-foot gallery wall, and oversized floor-to-ceiling windows set the tone for this bright and expansive duplex residence-currently configured as a convertible two-bedroom with 1.5 bathrooms with approximate interior square footage at 1,250SF. The main level offers an open layout ideal for both entertaining and everyday living. A spacious 29-foot living area is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and opens to a private balcony. See floor plan and full details here.

The Boulevard, #922
$1,275,000 (-5.6%)

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Condop | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 850 ft²

The Boulevard, #922 (Compass)

From the Listing: Sleek downtown style meets timeless Upper West Side living in this rare 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath duplex loft. Recently renovated and thoughtfully designed, this residence combines contemporary elegance with functional comfort. See floor plan and full details here.

The Armory, #7A
$1,350,000

Midtown West | Condop | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,077 ft²

The Armory, #7A (Compass)

From the Listing: Luxury Loft Duplex w/35-foot terrace! One-of-a-kind masterpiece created by combining two units to create a jaw-dropping 2,077sf that was originally a 3-bed, 2-bath oasis. Now used as a large double living room, 2 bed, 2 bath. See floor plan and full details here.

Little Gramercy, #23D
$1,650,000

Gramercy Park | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 1,700 ft²

Little Gramercy, #23D (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Great opportunity to live in Gramercy in a well-priced, spacious 3+ bedroom, 4-bathroom duplex just one block from Gramercy Park. With over 1,700 square feet, the apartment offers a comfortable amount of space rarely found at this price point. The kitchen and all bathrooms have been renovated, and at under $1,000 per square foot, it represents strong value for the neighborhood.It's worth seeing in person to get a true sense of the space and value. See floor plan and full details here.

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161 Remsen Street, #7B
$1,495,000 (-9.4%)

Brooklyn Heights | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

161 Remsen Street, #7B (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: 161 Remsen Street, Apt. 7B - Top-floor duplex, 2BR/2BA with private balcony This light-filled "greenhouse" duplex offers treetop views, airy flow, and a sense of calm right in the heart of Brooklyn Heights, steps from the 2/3, 4/5, R, A/C and F trains, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade and beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park. The open-plan living space is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and beautiful wood floors, while the private upper-level bedroom retreat opens to a large, sun-splashed balcony - your own outdoor escape above the neighborhood. See floor plan and full details here.

720 Greenwich Street, #1R
$1,500,000 (-14.3%)

West Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

720 Greenwich Street, #1R (Compass)

From the Listing: PRIME West Village Loft Dream Come True....with a doorman! This architecturally significant West Village duplex impresses immediately with soaring 14-foot barrel-vaulted ceilings and dreamy natural light streaming through a row of 10-foot-tall East-facing windows overlooking Greenwich Street, possibly one of the most attractive parts of the entire West Village. This quintessential downtown loft fuses industrial pre-war elements with modern touches to create a cohesive, contemporary home. See floor plan and full details here.

James H. and Cornelia V. Robb House, #1/A
$1,500,000 (-9.1%)

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,650 ft²

James H. and Cornelia V. Robb House, #1/A (Compass)

From the Listing: A hidden retreat ideal for those who value artful design, exceptional style, and convenience. This extraordinary duplex in a landmarked gilded age house on Park Avenue was lovingly restored and renovated to create an approximately 1,650 square foot refuge that transports you. Thoughtfully designed by White, Webb, this duplex blends old-world architectural detail with contemporary elegance. See floor plan and full details here.

The Morgan Studios, #7C
$1,550,000 (-6.1%)

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Morgan Studios, #7C (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to a rare architectural offering at The Morgan Studios — a distinguished 1928 pre-war cooperative set along one of the Upper East Side’s most coveted tree-lined blocks.

This exceptional duplex is defined by its dramatic double-height living room, where soaring 13-foot ceilings and oversized multi-pane windows create extraordinary scale and light. A wood-burning fireplace anchors the space, while elegant iron-railed stairs rise to the private level above — a striking architectural focal point equally suited to intimate evenings or grand entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

Southgate, #11/12G
$1,695,000 (-5.6%)

Beekman/Sutton Place | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

Southgate, #11/12G (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: The Duplex Of Your Dreams At Southgate. The combination of apartment #11G and #12G at 433 East 51st Street is the most unique offering in the Beekman neighborhood. This exceptional home is for the discriminating buyer who appreciates a newly renovated 6-room home, compromising of two (11th and 12th floors) with central air conditioning, terrace and both floors feature three exposures, hardwood floors, wood burning fireplaces, beamed ceilings, excellent closet space, windowed bathrooms, an oversized windowed kitchen, washer & dryer and beautiful views of the city skyscape. See floor plan and full details here.

450 West 23rd Street, #E
$1,895,000 (-5%)

Chelsea | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

450 West 23rd Street, #E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate -)

From the Listing: On a storybook stretch of West Chelsea, where the Fitzroy townhouses rise in dignified rhythm along 23rd Streets, there is a penthouse duplex that feels less like an apartment and more like a secret kept above the city. Hosting your very own private roof deck along with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, all your must haves are here! The door opens to a home in absolute mint condition, the kind of careful, exacting renovation that feels both timeless and entirely new. See floor plan and full details here.

Opal 33, #PH4A
$1,950,000

South Slope - Greenwood Heights | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,229 ft²

Opal 33, #PH4A (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Welcome to Residence PH4A at Opal 33, the building's premier duplex penthouse and an extraordinary offering in Greenwood Heights. Spanning 1,209 square feet of impeccably finished interior space across two levels, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence includes one private on-site parking space and is paired with a remarkable 1,180 square feet of private outdoor terraces - creating an unparalleled indoor-outdoor lifestyle. See floor plan and full details here.

The Dunhill, #15B
$3,750,000 (-20.2%)

Yorkville | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths | 3,380 ft²

The Dunhill, #15B (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Expansive and Glamorous UES Duplex with Private Outdoor Space Measuring over 3,000 interior square feet and boasting an unbelievable five private outdoor spaces, this sensational duplex combines the scale of a townhouse with the light, views, and elevation of a high-floor home on the Upper East Side-housed in an impeccably run full-service condo with amenities. Every room opens to greenery or skyline vistas. Balconies extend from each bedroom, with additional terraces off the living and dining rooms-rare in any Manhattan residence. To the west, tree-lined 84th Street offers a glimpse of the Park. See floor plan and full details here.

The Royale, #3701/3801
$3,795,000

Lenox Hill | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,210 ft²

The Royale, #3701/3801 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Perched high above the Upper East Side, this striking 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath duplex at The Royale Condominium offers sweeping Central Park and Manhattan skyline views, dramatic scale, and exceptional natural light. A 19-foot double-height great room is framed by floor-to-ceiling windows with bright South and West exposures, creating an impressive sense of volume and openness throughout the main entertaining space. A wraparound balcony extends directly off the living and dining areas, offering expansive skyline views from nearly every angle. The duplex layout provides a natural separation between entertaining and private living spaces, connected by a sculptural staircase that adds to the home's architectural presence. See floor plan and full details here.

611 West 56th Street, #8A/9A
$4,700,000

Midtown West | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,479 ft²

611 West 56th Street, #8A/9A (Sporn Group LLC)

From the Listing: Duplex Residence 8A/9A offering three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms with 2,479 interior square feet with an additional 864 square feet of private outdoor space, creating a 3,343 square foot indoor and outdoor footprint.When valuing the outdoor at 50% of the interior, the residence presents a compelling investment at just $1,615 per square foot, the home delivers exceptional long term value, especially rare for a duplex with this scale and light. Direct elevator access on both levels enhances privacy, while south, east and north exposures fill the home with natural light. See floor plan and full details here.

101 Wooster Street, #3F/4F
$6,995,000

SoHo | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 4,200 ft²

101 Wooster Street, #3F/4F (Compass)

From the Listing: A Rare 4,200 SF Duplex Loft on Lovely Wooster Street Located on one of SoHo’s most coveted cobblestone blocks between Spring and Prince, this pristine duplex loft spans approximately 4,200 square feet and embodies the scale, light, and architectural drama that, in an ideal world, defines classic downtown loft living. See floor plan and full details here.

42 Downing Street, #TH
$14,500,000 (-19.4%)

Greenwich Village | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 9,020 ft²

42 Downing Street, # (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Sun flooded West Village House! Boasting 29 feet of frontage onto Downing Street, including a curb cut and private garage, this fabulous 9,000 square foot home features double height ceilings, six outdoor spaces, walls of windows and an elevator that services the basement to the fabulous roof deck. A beautiful blend of West Village charm and contemporary design, every room has wonderful natural light, so rare in a house. See floor plan and full details here.

163 West 76th Street, #TH
$16,000,000

Broadway Corridor | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 8,000 ft²

163 West 76th Street, # (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: Nothing on the market compares. This exceptional townhouse has been meticulously gut renovated and reimagined for modern living and entertaining. With approximately 8,000 sqft of interior space and 1,450 sqft of outdoor space, the 20' wide home offers extraordinary scale, comfort, and flexibility.Rarely are homes renovated to this quality and offered at such a competitive price. The classically restored facade leads to a gracious stoop and parlor floor, while the back facade has been updated with floor to ceiling glazing looking out to the spacious garden and northern sunlight. See floor plan and full details here.

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #PHSOUTH
$25,950,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths | 7,062 ft²

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #PHSOUTH (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: THE TRIBECA CROWN - A RALPH WALKER MASTERPIECE Penthouse South at One Hundred Barclay is a 7,062-square-foot duplex of exceptional scale and character, offering a rare opportunity to own a turnkey Paris Forino-designed residence in Tribeca. The home features five bedrooms, five bathrooms, two powder rooms, and a private loggia, with abundant natural light from south, east, and west exposures. See floor plan and full details here.

515 Park Avenue, #36372EF
$27,500,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 5,700 ft²

515 Park Avenue, #36372EF (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: This massive 5000 sq. ft. Park Avenue Penthouse condominium duplex two blocks from Central Park, offers extraordinary scale, soaring 11’5” ceilings, huge floor to ceiling windows with glorious views of Central Park, five bedrooms, five full baths and two half baths, a studio/staff/guest/office/apartment overlooking Park Avenue with approximately 700 sq. ft., wine room and two storage units all included in the sale. Panoramic views of Central Park, the Manhattan skyline, Park Avenue and beyond to the George Washington Bridge surround the Penthouse, which is gloriously imbued with the architectural genius of world renowned designer, Juan Pablo Molyneux. See floor plan and full details here.

176 Perry Street, #10S
$28,750,000

West Village | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths | 11,000 ft²

176 Perry Street, #10S (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: 176 Perry Street is a modernist masterpiece designed by internationally acclaimed architect Richard Meier. This spectacular triplex apartment comprises the 8th, 9th and 10th Floors and over 11,000 square feet of living space. The residence's striking minimalist design makes it one of the most dramatic apartments in Manhattan. The 8th floor features a huge recreation room with terrace overlooking the Hudson, 4 bedrooms with ensuite baths and a library/guest bedroom with half bath. The 9th floor features a dramatic 51' x 26' double height great room with walls of windows overlooking the Hudson River. See floor plan and full details here.

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In this article:

235 East 49th Street, #5D
$499,000

The Norfolk Arms, #2
$675,000

342 East 53rd Street, #1G
$675,000

425 East 78th Street, #6F
$695,000

The International Tailoring Company Building, #3A
$775,000

215 East 17th Street, #2
$825,000

170 East 88th Street, #2B
$1,250,000

The Boulevard, #922
$1,275,000 (-5.6%)

The Armory, #7A
$1,350,000

Little Gramercy, #23D
$1,650,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

161 Remsen Street, #7B
$1,495,000 (-9.4%)

720 Greenwich Street, #1R
$1,500,000 (-14.3%)

James H. and Cornelia V. Robb House, #1/A
$1,500,000 (-9.1%)

The Morgan Studios, #7C
$1,550,000 (-6.1%)

Southgate, #11/12G
$1,695,000 (-5.6%)

450 West 23rd Street, #E
$1,895,000 (-5%)

Opal 33, #PH4A
$1,950,000

The Dunhill, #15B
$3,750,000 (-20.2%)

The Royale, #3701/3801
$3,795,000

611 West 56th Street, #8A/9A
$4,700,000

101 Wooster Street, #3F/4F
$6,995,000

42 Downing Street, #TH
$14,500,000 (-19.4%)

163 West 76th Street, #TH
$16,000,000

One Hundred Barclay Tribeca, #PHSOUTH
$25,950,000

515 Park Avenue, #36372EF
$27,500,000

176 Perry Street, #10S
$28,750,000

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Price Cuts include massive combo residence at The Plaza reduced by $5M; Marvel Comics illustrator trims price of Sutton Place townhouse

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Best June for Manhattan contracts; David Bowie's former Essex House condo finds a buyer

Best May for Manhattan contracts since 2023; $85M UWS townhouse among top deals

Pre-war vs. Post-war: Pros, cons, and featured listings

Easy Escapes: NYC apartments with private roof decks and cabanas under $2 million

Upstairs, Downstairs: 25 NYC homes with statement staircases

In this article:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Related Listings

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Best June for Manhattan contracts; David Bowie's former Essex House condo finds a buyer