Beaux-Art and French-Renaissance-style buildings and spaces in NYC
July 14 marks the celebration of Bastille Day, or the national day of France. The day is the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a significant moment during the French Revolution and now celebrated as a national holiday. This year's celebrations were more subdued owing to the heat wave and recent unrest, but celebrations in Paris traditionally begin with a military parade along the Champs-Elysee and fighter jet flyover over the Arc de Triomphe, and conclude with a fireworks display set off from the Eiffel Tower. In between, there is no shortage of concerts, balls, and smaller-scale celebrations.
Bastille Day is also celebrated across the pond, where New York’s French restaurants, retailers and cultural institutions pay tribute to the holiday. The French Institute: Alliance Française will host the boroughs' largest celebration in the form of a street fair on Madison Avenue on Sunday, July 16. Indeed, the holiday's falling on a Friday this year allows the celebrations, cultural displays, and restaurant specials to extend into the weekend. Full details may be found here.
In this article:
(CityRealty)
To celebrate France's local influences, we took a look at the grandest Beaux-Arts residential buildings in the city. The name of the artistic style is taken from Paris’s L’Ecole des Beaux-Arts, one of the world’s most prestigious architecture schools at the turn of the twentieth century. The aesthetic is loyal to the tenets of Classicism, but goes further in slathering on layers of ornamentation. The 1893 Chicago World's Fair introduced America to Beaux-Arts architecture, and wealthy Americans appreciated it as a mark of European sophistication.
Many noted American architects studied at the L'Ecole des Beaux-Arts and brought their newly learned talents to beautify our cities and become patrons of the country's growing upper class. Our best-known examples were constructed at the turn of the 20 century, resulting in what some call the City Beautiful Movement and the Gilded Age. Iconic examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in New York include Grand Central Terminal, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building that houses the main branch of the New York Public Library. With the surge of wealth and 'robber barons' at this time, the style made its mark in residential architecture with rows of opulent mansions lining Fifth Avenue and some of our grandest apartment houses ever built. See our list of favorite Beaux-Arts and French Renaissance-style apartment buildings below.
Completed in 1912 | Converted in 2018
2 availabilities from $3,650,000
All images of 49 Chambers Street via Douglas Elliman
Around the block from City Hall Park, the Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank was converted to 99 luxury condominiums, though not at the expense of the Beaux Arts architecture that was instrumental in its designation as a New York City Landmark. This meant that the Hall des Lumieres immersive art museum could not proceed without Landmarks approval, but the commission unanimously approved the project in July 2020 and it opened two years later. In honor of hip hop's 50th anniversary, an immersive Hip Hop Til Infinity exhibit is set to open July 26.
From the Listing: This gracious 3,225-square-foot three-bedroom with large media room area, two and a half bath residence designed by Gabellini Sheppard is housed within one of Manhattan’s finest Beaux-Arts landmark buildings. This unique home with grand double door entry and foyer is rich in detail and craftsmanship with the perfect balance of warm earth tones with accents in bronze, metal, and mirror. Rich hickory hardwood floors, in a custom chevron pattern, cerused Cypress wood millwork, and dramatic stone enhance this sophisticated residence. Each bedroom has its own en-suite bath with custom closets already designed for you. See floor plan and full details here.
180 West 58th Street
Completed in 1910 | Converted in 1980
2 availabilities from $995,000
Designed in the style of King Francis I, The Alwyn Court has been described as "one of the finest buildings of its type in New York City" by the Landmarks Preservation Commission and "the city's most ornate building" by architecture critic Carter Horsley. Stylized fire-breathing crowned salamanders, the King's royal symbol, stand guard over the building's entrance, and nearly every square inch of the facade is covered with elaborate terra cotta ornamentation in the shape of cherubs, flowers plants, and animals.
The Alwyn Court, #2F (Compass)
From the Listing: Meticulously renovated, this home features beautiful parquet floors, beamed ceilings, picture moldings and stunning mahogany doors that once graced the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The spacious living room with its 10’5" ceiling faces north with three windows overlooking West 58th Street. The oversized bedroom, also facing West 58th Street, has a walk-in California Closet. You enter this gracious home via a foyer with a stylish open kitchen offering a breakfast bar, custom Shaker style cabinets and stainless steel appliances including a Miele dishwasher. An adjacent dining area has a window overlooking the building’s atrium with its renowned trompe l’oeil design. See floor plan and full details here.
1 Central Park South
Completed in 1907 | Converted in 2007
22 availabilities from $900,000
From Central Park
Designed in the French Renaissance style, The Plaza is one of New York City's most iconic buildings in one of its most iconic locations - on Fifth Avenue, directly across from Central Park. Its white marble base, ornate entrances, and mansard roof make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and wealthy tourists alike. Following the partial conversion to condos, residents have access to all the hotel's amenities and services, including The Palm Court.
The Plaza, #1013 (Compass)
From the Listing: Immaculate in every degree with high 12-foot ceilings throughout, the apartment has undergone a meticulous renovation by AD100 designer Richard Keith Langham, resulting in an elegant and functional space that caters to modern living. As you step into the graceful foyer, you are greeted by custom onyx flooring in serene hues reminiscent of the sea and sand. Enhancing the foyer’s grandeur are two columns that frame the remarkable living room, offering breathtaking views of the historic Grand Army Plaza and Fifth Avenue. Impeccable attention to detail is evident throughout the entire home, with noteworthy focal points that captivate the eye. A bar area, boasting a whimsical tented ceiling, becomes a charming centerpiece, while the powder room ceiling shines with a lavish gold leaf finish. The dining room walls are sumptuously upholstered, while custom plaster moldings and lattice-work ceilings add a touch of refined craftsmanship. See floor plan and full details here.
795 Fifth Avenue
Completed in 1930 | Converted in 1959
5 availabilities from $1,775,000
The Pierre Hotel was completed in 1930, and became an architectural icon in New York almost immediately. The hotel's slanted roof was inspired by the Royal Chapel at Versailles, and the apartments on top were designed to make the most of direct views of Central Park and the New York City skyline.
The Pierre, #2704 (Douglas Elliman)
From the Listing: Residence 2704, located on a high floor of the mythical five-star Hotel Pierre, features south, west, and northern exposures which allows for breathtaking Central Park and legendary skyline views. Stunning vistas of sunset and daybreak light emanate from the master bedroom, second bedroom and living room. Custom designed millwork by David Linley include parquet floors, closets, book shelves, doors, paneling, boiserie, and crown molding using ebony that was then polished with added black polish. The vestibule opens to an elegant gallery that circulates between the two bedrooms and the grand entertaining space with wood burning fireplace and gorgeous park views. A perfectly proportioned and windowed dining room leads one to a large kitchen, a private home office and powder room. Renovation and interior design by renowned English decorator Anouska Hempel complement and elevate this grand and gracious home to the highest level. See floor plan and full details here.
Completed in 1906 | Converted in 1987
2 availabilities from $2,875,000
Originally known as the Fred Leighton Building, this opulent exterior features a French Renaissance style design, attractive red masonry, a rounded corner, and Elizabethan and Flemish Gothic details throughout the facade. Ten years after it was declared a New York City Landmark, it was converted to a luxurious cooperative.
45 East 66th Street, #PH (Core Group Marketing)
From the Listing: Encompassing approximately 4,020 square feet of interior space and an expansive 3,455 square feet of exterior space, this penthouse delivers an exceptional blend of indoor and outdoor living. Upon entering the private elevator landing, there is an abundance of natural light that fills this home with floor-to-ceiling windows and a huge skylight. The dining area and windowed eat-in kitchen are a culinary masterpiece, boasting four-inch-thick marble countertops, meticulously crafted Arclinea copper cabinetry and drawers that effortlessly combine style and functionality, and a suite of top-of-the-line appliances. Ascend upstairs to discover the primary bedroom suite, which boasts serene vistas, additional outdoor space, and a spa-like bathroom adorned in Black Onyx. See floor plan and full details here.
Completed in 1911 | Converted in 1987
3 availabilities from $2,950,000
521 Park Avenue via Sotheby's International
521 Park Avenue was designed by William Boring, an American-born architect who studied architecture at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts before returning to New York and joining the firm of McKim, Mead and White. The limestone building has been honored with numerous international design awards, including a gold medal for architecture from the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1900.
521 Park Avenue, #5BC (Compass)
From the Listing: An architectural masterpiece, this sprawling home features 10 windows and 80 feet of Park Avenue frontage. The residence offers captivating views of the city skyline, while the soaring 10-foot ceilings and a 36-foot gallery create a grand entrance to the home. Upon entering, the expansive living room with a cozy gas-burning marble fireplace and wall of windows is sure to impress, while the dining room that comfortably seats 24 is conveniently connected to the kitchen, ideal for both formal and casual dining. Designed for the discerning chef, the enormous eat-in kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter and storage space. A lavish hallway leads to four generously sized bedrooms, complemented by three windowed bathrooms. See floor plan and full details here.
171 West 71st Street
Completed in 1902 | Converted in 1984
3 availabilities from $2,595,000
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(Brown Harris Stevens)
Architecture critic Carter Horsley describes The Dorilton as "one of New York's most spectacular architecturally." With its dramatic entrance gate, Beaux Arts facade, and marvelous sculptures, it is easy to see why. The building has been meticulously restored to its original splendor, and the apartments inside have received the same attention.
The Dorilton, #PHE12C (Fox Residential Group)
From the Listing: Located in the iconic, turn-of-the-century Beaux-Arts Dorilton, this legendary penthouse duplex has grand loft-like living spaces, four bedrooms, four and one half beautifully renovated baths plus an enormous, multi-level planted terrace. The vaulted fully-skylighted living room and dining area feature a gas fireplace, beautiful sunlight and views. Off the living room, there’s a large formal dining space and an adjacent open state-of-the-art kitchen with breakfast bar. The enormous terrace offers spectacular city views and completes the living area. There are two bedrooms and two and a half baths on the penthouse level. A lovely staircase leads to the lower level containing two additional bedrooms, two baths and a library (or third bedroom) with a fireplace, plus a full second eat-in mint condition kitchen. See floor plan and full details here.
344 West 72nd Street
Completed in 1904 | Converted in 2014
8 availabilities from $1,850,000
The anchoring base of Riverside Park has been renovated to its former glory and updated with the features and amenities today's buyer has come to expect. The landmarked building is distinguished by its rusticated limestone base, red brick and limestone facade, and cherubs carved above the cornice.
The Chatsworth, #203 (Engel & Volkers)
From the Listing: This home, which has direct views over the greenery of Riverside Park and overlooking the vast riverfront Hudson River Parkway system, is beautifully appointed with both classic Old World details and modern, renovated conveniences. With a gracious entry gallery with coffered ceiling leading into a large open living room, brightly lit through steady, northern exposure in historical frame windows, the home features wide oak flooring, custom millwork, and architectural moldings throughout. A windowed, designer kitchen offers the best in luxury design with high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and quartzite countertops. The primary suite bedroom, overlooking a quiet, four-season garden, boasts a 10-foot-deep walk-in closet and a windowed, spa-like bath. See floor plan and full details here.
2109 Broadway
Completed in 1904 | Converted in 1990
5 availabilities from $998,000
Sotheby's
The Ansonia was originally designed as a luxury hotel; in the years that followed, it became a highly coveted residential building and a New York City Landmark. Many apartments retain original architectural details, yet have been modernized with new kitchens and renovated baths. The roof garden, corridors, staircases, and elevators have been beautifully restored.
The Ansonia, #4144 (Brown Harris Stevens)
From the Listing: This magnificent three-bedroom, three-bathroom home in the historic Ansonia is a true gem that seamlessly combines timeless charm with modern luxury. As you step into this renovated home, you’ll be captivated by the unrivaled prewar details that adorn every corner. The living room and dining room boast floor-to-ceiling windows, offering an abundance of natural light and enchanting views. Crown moldings, 10’10" ceilings, and decorative ceiling medallions add a touch of grandeur, while a decorative fireplace creates a cozy ambiance. The sizable, renovated windowed kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space. The primary bedroom is a private oasis, complete with a windowed en suite bathroom featuring a huge shower and a comfortable bench-a perfect place to unwind after a long day. See floor plan and full details here.
135 Central Park West
Completed in 1905
No current availabilities
With its limestone facade and French and English architectural influences, The Langham is considered one of the most beautiful buildings on Central Park West. Apartments boast features like high ceilings, gorgeous crown moldings, three decorative fireplaces, formal dining rooms, and windowed kitchens.
164 West 74th Street
Completed in 1901 | Converted in 2019
No current availabilities
All images of The Marbury via Compass
In the process of transforming The Marbury from a hotel to a condominium, the interiors were brought up to contemporary standards while its historic Beaux Art facade was restored, much to the approval of the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Gracious residences boasts high ceilings, oversized windows, top-of-the-line infrastructure, and peaceful primary suite. The kitchens come outfitted with hand-crafted cabinetry, marble countertops and backsplash, and state-of-the-art appliances. See floor plan and full details here.
151 Central Park West
Completed in 1908 | Converted in 1958
No current availabilities
(Ajay Suresh for Wikipedia)
Located on the Gold Coast of Central Park, The Kenilworth is designed in the French Second Empire style. The building is surrounded by a dry moat, and architecture critics Elliot Willensky and Norval White describe it as a "cubical, russet-brick wedding cake topped by a grand convex mansard roof."
100 West 80th Street
Completed in 1900 | Converted in 2014
No current availabilities
The Orleans (Brown Harris Stevens)
From the time it was constructed as a hotel, The Orleans has attracted attention for its Beaux-Arts style, soaring height, and views of Central Park and the Museum of Natural History. Following a 2014 conversion to condos, this New York City Landmark beautifully combines Old World grandeur on the outside with modern conveniences and amenities on the inside.
Completed in 1908 | Converted in 2019
4 availabilities from $7,995,000
Images of 555 West End Avenue via Compass | Photo Credit: Joel Pitra of DDreps
In 1908, 555 West End Avenue was built as a public school; it was converted to a luxury condominium with Landmarks' blessing over 100 years later. At any time, the building's red brick facade, white stone trim, owl gargoyles, and crenellated turrets set it apart as a local landmark and an architectural standout.
555 West End Avenue, #THESOLARIUM (Sotheby's International Realty)
From the Listing: Formerly the gymnasium of the school, it has dramatic architecture but is also an apartment that is easy to live in. The Great Room (which in this case is actually an accurate name) has a 19 foot arched ceiling with a full glass wall opening to a terrace big enough for an outdoor dinner party. The open kitchen, hand-crafted in white fumed oak by Christopher Peacock with Arabescato slab marble counters and slab backsplashes has multiple spots for people to pull up a stool and be part of the cooking action or even to eat a meal, but it is set back from the living room to allow for formality if needed. The primary bedroom has two walk-in closets, a 5-fixture primary bath with Calacatta Gold marble slabs, custom white oak vanities by Christopher Peacock, double sinks with Lefroy Brooks fixtures, radiant-heat floors, towel warmers, steam shower and private Toto Neorest smart toilet. See floor plan and full details here.
100 Amity Street
Completed in 1898 | Converted in 2019
1 availability for $3,650,000
All images of Polhemus Residences via BKSK Architects/Douglas Elliman
On a cobblestone street in Brooklyn, the Polhemus Memorial Clinic has been transformed into Polhemus Residences, a collection of luxury residences beneath a limestone and brick facade. The French Renaissance-style limestone facade and narrow cornices were beautifully restored to its former glory, but the interiors have been renovated with high ceilings, grand proportions, and luxurious amenities.
Polhemus Residences, #3A (Archpoint Advisory Team)
From the Listing: This architecturally distinguished residence features signature eight-and-a-half-foot-tall weight and chain double-hung windows in the living room and primary bedroom. The windowed open kitchen offers a culinary island for informal entertaining. Luxurious details abound: triple exposures, eleven-foot ceilings in the living room and bedrooms, a split configuration of the secondary bedrooms, and a master suite with two walk-in wardrobes. The Parisian foyer with a paneled entry door is a prelude to the seamless, flowing layout with a loft-like great room. Timelessly stylish, the open chef’s kitchen features custom millwork cabinetry with leather-wrapped Tanner’s Craft nickel hardware. See floor plan and full details here.
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
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