What is a classic six? Learn more and see beautiful examples on the market now

By CityRealty Staff | From Get To Know Thursday, February 1, 2024

The Victorian, 175 East 62nd Street, #PHA (Compass)

“Classic six” is one of the most frequently used, yet least understood, terms in the New York real estate lexicon. “Classic” nods to the prewar era when apartments of this ilk were built, and “six” refers to the total number of rooms, which must include a living room, a formal dining room, a kitchen, two full bedrooms, and a maid’s room typically located near the kitchen and with its own bath. These apartments are also home to other architectural touches that were especially popular during that time: hardwood floors, thick walls, spacious rooms, high ceilings, eye-catching moldings, grand entrance galleries, gracious hallways to separate the spaces, and, in some cases, wood-burning fireplaces and private terraces.

While the size of a classic six is a popular one, this type of apartment isn't necessarily for everyone. They are most likely to be found in prewar cooperatives on the Upper East Side and Upper West Side, which means those hoping to live in an amenity-rich new downtown condo are out of luck. Clearly defined rooms are also clearly divided, which detracts from the open, airy atmosphere the modern buyer has come to expect and enjoy. The kitchens were designed with servants in mind and are thus smaller than today's cook might appreciate. The maid's room can certainly be used as a third bedroom, albeit one with significantly less space, grandeur, and privacy than the others. And then there is the question of the co-op board: Even if a buyer gets past this formidable body, any changes or updates to the apartment must first be approved.

Nevertheless, the model has not only endured but enjoyed a new appreciation in recent times. After months of whole families trying to live, work, play, study, and exercise in one apartment, a clear division of rooms can be quite welcome. Some modern developments have incorporated the layout into new buildings while putting a contemporary stamp on it, but there is no denying the architectural, historic, and aesthetic value of the apartments that define the classic six. Availabilities in New York's most prestigious prewar buildings are few and far between, which gives today’s buyer an undeniable status symbol in addition to a new home.

Notable Classic Six Listings

The Victorian, #14A
$775,000 (-13.8%)

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,880 ft²

The Victorian, #14A (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to 175 East 62nd Street, Unit 14A. Believe it or not, this unit is not virtually staged. This is a fabulous classic six apartment that has been converted in the 1980s into a spectacular 1 bedroom apartment designed for entertainment.A tremendous value-add opportunity is ready to be unlocked by a buyer with vision to convert this approximate 1880 sq ft back into an apartment that meets modern needs. See floor plan and full details here.

138 East 36th Street, #9C
$1,150,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

138 East 36th Street, #9C (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to 9C, a pre-war classic 6 room home of approximately 1500 Square Feet and 3 exposures awaiting renewal by a new owner. Pre-war details abound in this 3 bedroom/ 3 bath, including a wood burning fireplace, 9’ beamed ceilings, original hardwood floors and ample closets. The gracious entrance foyer leads to a spacious living room with a fireplace and French doors opening to an adjacent Formal Dining Room offering South and West exposures. See floor plan and full details here.

955 Lexington Avenue, #5C
$1,200,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

955 Lexington Avenue, #5C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Elegant and timeless, the semi-private landing opens into a well-designed very gracious classic six-room apartment, with a formal living room, library or second bedroom, dining room, kitchen and staff or home office. Additional features include ten-foot-high beamed ceilings, large windows and beautiful oakwood plank wood floors throughout. The spacious gallery leads into a living room with a wood-burning fireplace. The living room opens up to a formal corner north and east-facing dining room with custom millwork. The bright windowed kitchen features limestone floors, pantry storage, and a closet for a vented washer/dryer. There is also a generously sized staff room/home office with an en-suite bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.

125 East 63rd Street, #4B
$1,250,000 (-16.4%)

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,500 ft²

125 East 63rd Street, #4B (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Lovely prewar 2 bedroom/2.5 bathroom home with a wood burning fireplace just off Park Avenue. A formal entry foyer leads into a large living room facing south overlooking the pretty treetops of East 63rd Street. The formal dining room lends itself to elegant entertaining and is a flexible space that could also be used as a library/den. Both bedrooms are graciously sized and offer southern light, an abundance of closets, and custom built-ins. See floor plan and full details here.

430 East 57th Street, #12A
$1,475,000 (-3.3%)

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

430 East 57th Street, #12A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Bring your painter, decorator, or architect to this exceptionally proportioned prewar classic six, currently configured as a two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence with a formal entryway, living room with a wood-burning fireplace, large dining room, kitchen, butler's pantry, and staff room. Apartment 12C sits on a high floor overlooking East 57th Street in the quiet enclave of Sutton Place. The apartment includes private storage. See floor plan and full details here.

The Creston, #6E
$1,495,000 (-6.3%)

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

The Creston, #6E (Wohlfarth & Associates Inc)

From the Listing: This spacious and charming classic six room apartment has beautiful west views and fabulous light from the living and dining rooms, and the entire apartment is pin-drop quiet. Classic architectural details include high ceilings, oversize windows, a decorative fireplace and intricate moldings throughout. New hardwood floors have just been installed in the living and bedroom areas. The large windowed kitchen was recently renovated, with white Shaker-style cabinets, quartz counters, and stainless steel appliances, including a French-door refrigerator and full-size washer and dryer. The staff room off of the kitchen can work as an office or third bedroom. The primary bedroom boasts a renovated en-suite bath and a large closet. See floor plan and full details here.

430 East 57th Street, #5D
$1,595,000 (-14.9%)

Beekman/Sutton Place | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

430 East 57th Street, #5D (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Move right into this elegant Pre-War Classic-6 home with a semi-private landing and lovely updates throughout. The exquisite home is convertible to 3 bedrooms with an updated kitchen and separate breakfast room including washer/dryer. Enjoy the timeless comfort and elegance of Sutton Place living in this prestigious, historic cooperative with the convergence of classic design elements, architectural features and the conveniences of living in the heart of Manhattan! See floor plan and full details here.

1065 Lexington Avenue, #6B
$1,775,000 (-4.1%)

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,632 ft²

1065 Lexington Avenue, #6B (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: It feels a little like Paris in this renovated elegant classic 6-room home in the heart of the Upper East Side. With only two apartments per floor, you enter into the apartment and you are immediately drawn in by the unique vaulted ceilings of the gallery and the elegant original refinished hardwood floors. Quiet and serene without sacrificing sunlight, the apartment benefits from its distance away from Lexington Avenue. See floor plan and full details here.

The Stanton, #13G
$1,895,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,865 ft²

The Stanton, #13G (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to 250 West 94th St #13G, a beautiful prewar 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom cooperative apartment in an established, full-service building. This elegant residence is brimming with beautiful original character and offers a spacious, light-filled, and serene living space. With unlimited potential, this beautiful classic six presents a fantastic opportunity for a savvy buyer to create their dream home. Upon entering the gracious gallery foyer, the lovely proportions and charm of this prewar gem are immediately apparent. The large living room boasts oversized windows that offer views of the historic Pomander Walk. See floor plan and full details here.

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119 East 84th Street, #2A
$1,895,000 (-5%)

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

119 East 84th Street, #2A (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: On a charming tree-lined block just moments away from Park Avenue, lies this lovely prewar Classic 6 home with only four apartments per floor. The generously proportioned, 14x22 foot south-facing living room has 9 ft. ceilings. The living room opens into a spacious den/dining room, boasting a beautiful wall of built-ins that includes bookshelves, a TV, and ample storage—an ideal space for relaxation and entertainment. See floor plan and full details here.

969 Park Avenue, #7A
$1,895,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

969 Park Avenue, #7A (Platinum Properties)

From the Listing: Apartment 7A at 969 Park Avenue – a corner unit with a flexible, classic six layout, conveniently located on the Upper East Side in a fantastic prewar building! This bright 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom property boasts natural light with double exposure (south/east), over 10-foot beam ceilings, classic prewar details, crown and base moldings, with ample closets and storage throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

29 East 64th Street, #7C
$1,950,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

29 East 64th Street, #7C (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: This elegant Upper East Side classic six offers a gracious layout which includes a classic entry foyer opening to the beautifully scaled and sunny south facing living room with decorative fireplace. A private hallway leads to the primary suite with over-sized south-facing bedroom, marble bathroom and closets plus ample room to create a dressing room. The large second bedroom has an en suite marble bathroom and two closets. At the other end of the foyer is the attractive formal dining room which is served by a large eat-in kitchen with laundry. There is also a guest/staff room with full bathroom and bright north exposures. There are new windows throughout and partial thru-wall air conditioning. Apartment 7C has a private storage room that will transfer with the apartment. See floor plan and full details here.

285 Riverside Drive, #11G
$2,100,000 (-23.6%)

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,968 ft²

285 Riverside Drive, #11G (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Beautifully redesigned classic-6 with cityscape views on Riverside Dr! Over 1900 square feet of 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, overlooking rooftops and water towers, with views of open sky to the east through oversized windows. See floor plan and full details here.

390 Riverside Drive, #15F
$2,200,000 (-8.1%)

Morningside Heights | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

390 Riverside Drive, #15F (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This may be your lucky day: You now have a chance to own this top floor corner Classic 6 with stunning river views. Apartment 15F is available for the first time. All rooms are bathed in light and face West and South with views of the Hudson River, Riverside Park and the skyline of New Jersey. The gorgeous changing sunsets will be your view every evening. Adorned with original hardwood floors, high ceilings, and glass French doors this pre-war home has a spacious layout and generous-sized rooms. See floor plan and full details here.

The Victorian, #PHA
$2,250,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

The Victorian, #PHA (Compass)

From the Listing: This renovated and romantic, mint condition corner classic six duplex penthouse with two terraces is ideally positioned on the ‘Gold Coast’ of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. A couple blocks from Central Park on a tree-lined street with a dedicated bike lane, the brownstone-studded East 62nd Street feels familiar in PHA which exudes the lifestyle of a townhome, set in the luxury and convenience of a white-glove building with a parking garage. See floor plan and full details here.

1230 Park Avenue, #9E
$2,299,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

1230 Park Avenue, #9E (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This generously proportioned classic six in a prewar Park Avenue cooperative is replete with elegant prewar details blended with thoughtful, state-of-the-art upgrades and appointments throughout. The living room with city and sky views features a decorative fireplace as well as custom built-in cabinets complete with a vertical TV lift and back-lit shelving. The windowed formal dining room offers the perfect amount of space and light for intimate or lively affairs. The long galley kitchen boasts high-end stainless-steel appliances, plenty of counter space and just enough seclusion to prepare gourmet meals away from the eyesight of guests. The ensuite primary bedroom boasts two double-door custom closets and two additional closets for shoes and apparel. Special features include on-demand Lutron lighting and Sonos wireless sound system, multi-zone through-the-wall air conditioners and low-profile radiators concealed behind custom covers and finally, new sound-resistant windows throughout the residence. See floor plan and full details here.

1235 Park Avenue, #3B
$2,395,000

Carnegie Hill | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,538 ft²

1235 Park Avenue, #3B (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to this stunning renovated Classic 6-into-5 residence that offers an unparalleled blend of timeless elegance and modern convenience. Nestled in one of the few, and highly coveted, pre-war Carnegie Hill condominiums on the corner of 96th and Park Avenue, this home boasts all exterior views over both Park Avenue with its colorful, seasonal Malls and breathtaking architecture, as well as 96th Street. The corner location gives an abundance of natural light and the layout offers the perfect flow. See floor plan and full details here.

845 West End Avenue, #6D
$2,695,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,954 ft²

845 West End Avenue, #6D (Compass)

From the Listing: Mint condition classic six condo offering the rare combination of prewar elegance highlighted by modern finishes. This gorgeous and sophisticated home with three bedroom spaces and three full bathrooms has an ideal layout accented by 9’ beamed ceilings, white oak herringbone floors in the entertaining spaces, custom millwork, and crown molding. With the luxuries of central air conditioning, an in-unit washer-dryer, double-paned windows, and copious amounts of fully outfitted closets along with low monthly fees, this home checks every box. See floor plan and full details here.

135 East 74th Street, #11A
$2,800,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

135 East 74th Street, #11A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: A true Classic 6, this home resides in a boutique co-op on the UES. The 1925 landmarked building is comprised of 31 residences on eleven floors plus a Penthouse. It is located between Park and Lexington Avenues. The artistic spirit of the owner is reflected in the furnishings; the apartment is eclectic and welcoming. The semi-private landing on the 11th floor opens into a spacious foyer which leads to the public rooms including the living room, dining room and kitchen. See floor plan and full details here.

The White House, #14D
$2,950,000 (-9.2%)

Central Park West | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

The White House, #14D (Weichert Properties)

From the Listing: This spacious classic six residence boasts a semi-private landing, a gracious entry foyer, three exposures for abundant natural light, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors. Explore the sunlit country-style kitchen, complete with a large pantry. There's even a private staff room/home office for added convenience and two spacious and tranquil bedrooms, along with two windowed bathrooms. The ample wall space throughout the home provides the perfect canvas for showcasing your cherished art collection, while the original prewar details exude timeless charm. In the living room, admire charming custom built bookshelves framing the decorative fireplace. Retreat to the primary bedroom, which offers double exposures, two walk-in closets, and an en-suite windowed bath. See floor plan and full details here.

53 East 66th Street, #3D
$2,975,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

53 East 66th Street, #3D (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Location, location, location… This pristinely renovated classic six home is situated in prime Lenox Hill in a 100-year-old luxury pre-war cooperative between Park and Madison Avenues.

From a semi-private elevator landing, one enters a welcoming foyer that leads to an oversized sunny living room with a wood-burning fireplace. The room has been expanded to include a cozy den perfect for entertaining. In addition, there are 2 bedrooms, 2 marble bathrooms, plus a dining room off the windowed chef’s kitchen.The kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances. See floor plan and full details here.

24 Central Park South, #3W
$2,995,000

Midtown West | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths

24 Central Park South, #3W (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Welcome to apartment 3W, a distinguished classic 6 residence graced with direct, tree-lined views of Central Park . The apartment offers three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and over 2,000 sf.

Upon entering, you are met with the timeless allure of chevron hardwood floors, which gracefully enhance the generously proportioned rooms. The expansive rooms offer ample space to accommodate your unique lifestyle, whether you are entertaining guests in the formal dining room or seeking solace in your cozy living room. See floor plan and full details here.

875 Fifth Avenue, #9A
$3,195,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

875 Fifth Avenue, #9A (Compass)

From the Listing: Come see the beautiful views of Central Park from this spacious and elegant Classic Six estate. The layout and room sizes are very gracious, and the ceilings are high at 8'8". The enormous living room and primary bedroom have over the treetop views of the Park through large windows.The very generously proportioned dining room is directly across from the living room with a formal gallery between them creating a 50' expanse which is perfect for gatherings of all kinds. For an art collector, there is ample wall space for even very large works. See floor plan and full details here.

1070 Park Avenue, #15E
$3,250,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

1070 Park Avenue, #15E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: State of the art renovation in a classically elegant home. This stunning classic 6-room easily converts to a three-bedroom. There are two extra large bedrooms with en suite baths. The third bedroom also has an en suite bath suitable as a bedroom, staff room or office. Gut renovated with the most beautiful finishes. The windowed kitchen includes top-notch Bosch appliances and spectacular countertops. Three brand new bathrooms have Toto washlet toilets and heated floors. There is also a washer-dryer. Wonderful open south-facing views bring abundant sunlight to this incredible pre-war home. See floor plan and full details here.

880 Fifth Avenue, #2D
$4,300,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

880 Fifth Avenue, #2D (Keller Williams NYC)

From the Listing: This three-bedroom, classic six, is a true Art Deco masterpiece with breathtaking Central Park views! You will immediately feel at home and be mesmerized by the natural light cascading through the expansive living room windows, and fall in love with the spacious open layout which is perfect for entertaining, with tree-line views of Central Park overlooking Fifth Avenue. The living room features a decorative fireplace, custom draperies, and coved moldings. No detail was missed in this oversized windowed kitchen from the luxurious high end Italian Massacar laminate cabinets, to the herringbone wood floors. The oversized primary suite overlooks Central Park and features two custom closets and a custom designed ensuite bathroom with the finest finishes including double sinks, a large soaking tub and glass shower. See floor plan and full details here.

10 Gracie Square, #8D
$5,995,000

Yorkville | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,450 ft²

10 Gracie Square, #8D (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Welcome to this meticulously renovated classic six at the esteemed 10 Gracie Square. Apartment 8D, a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence, offers breathtaking views of the East River. As you enter from your semi-private landing, you are welcomed by grand entertaining spaces featuring large proportions, 9' ceilings, and captivating river vistas. See floor plan and full details here.

The Ramondo, #12C
$5,750,000 (-7.3%)

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 2,500 ft²

The Ramondo, #12C (Modlin Group LLC)

From the Listing: Situated on a coveted block on the Upper East Side, this elegant and charming 2,500 square foot three bedroom, three and a half bathroom corner residence is the epitome of a dignified home with all the comforts of a white-glove building. Flooded with natural light from three exposures, this classic six boasts grand rooms and has retained its original fixtures and finishes, like the beautiful moldings and stunningly maintained herringbone hardwood floors.

A private elevator landing ushers you into the stately and welcoming foyer that seamlessly separates the living area from the private quarters. Providing northern city views through three oversized windows, the palatial, 29-foot living room features soaring ceiling heights and a lovely ebony, wood-burning fireplace.O See floor plan and full details here.

The Dorchester, #6CD
$6,795,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths

The Dorchester, #6CD (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to apartment 6CD - a stunning combination of two classic 6 apartments - at 131 Riverside Drive, an iconic Upper West Side prewar building known as The Dorchester. This sumptuous and spacious home marries impeccable design and style, while also remaining effortless, homey and oh-so-comfortable! From the moment you enter this stunning home, you will seeped in elegance from the grand, double-wide hallway, nearly 10 foot ceiling heights, and beautifully crafted herringboned hardwood floors. See floor plan and full details here.

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In this article:

Notable Classic Six Listings

The Victorian, #14A
$775,000 (-13.8%)

138 East 36th Street, #9C
$1,150,000

955 Lexington Avenue, #5C
$1,200,000

125 East 63rd Street, #4B
$1,250,000 (-16.4%)

430 East 57th Street, #12A
$1,475,000 (-3.3%)

The Creston, #6E
$1,495,000 (-6.3%)

430 East 57th Street, #5D
$1,595,000 (-14.9%)

1065 Lexington Avenue, #6B
$1,775,000 (-4.1%)

The Stanton, #13G
$1,895,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

119 East 84th Street, #2A
$1,895,000 (-5%)

969 Park Avenue, #7A
$1,895,000

29 East 64th Street, #7C
$1,950,000

285 Riverside Drive, #11G
$2,100,000 (-23.6%)

390 Riverside Drive, #15F
$2,200,000 (-8.1%)

The Victorian, #PHA
$2,250,000

1230 Park Avenue, #9E
$2,299,000

1235 Park Avenue, #3B
$2,395,000

845 West End Avenue, #6D
$2,695,000

135 East 74th Street, #11A
$2,800,000

The White House, #14D
$2,950,000 (-9.2%)

53 East 66th Street, #3D
$2,975,000

24 Central Park South, #3W
$2,995,000

875 Fifth Avenue, #9A
$3,195,000

1070 Park Avenue, #15E
$3,250,000

880 Fifth Avenue, #2D
$4,300,000

10 Gracie Square, #8D
$5,995,000

The Ramondo, #12C
$5,750,000 (-7.3%)

The Dorchester, #6CD
$6,795,000

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Notable Classic Six Listings

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Select which properties are of interest to you:

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