953 Fifth Avenue

Overview of 953 Fifth Avenue

953 Fifth Avenue stands as one of Manhattan's most exclusive residential buildings, designed in 1925 by the distinguished architect Isaac Newton Phelps Stokes, who was also the author of the renowned six volume "Iconography of Manhattan Island, 1498-1909." This 15 story Neo-Renaissance limestone building houses only seven residences, creating an extraordinarily intimate and private living environment. Converted to a co-op in 1946, the building features a three story rusticated limestone base topped by a distinctive green copper mansard style roof, with architectural details including quoins, stringcourses, and a balustrade cornice.

The building's exclusivity is matched by its full service amenities, including 24 hour doorman and elevator operator service. The attended elevator, featuring a spectacular brass door in some units, opens directly onto private landings for most residences. The building maintains sidewalk landscaping and a canopied entrance, while permitting window air conditioners and welcoming pets. Remarkably, the architect himself resided in a duplex on the 7th and 8th floors, which was described by The New York Times as "compact but immaculate and elegant like a private coach on a European express train."

The residences at 953 Fifth Avenue are predominantly duplex and triplex configurations, many featuring spectacular Central Park views through oversized casement windows. Several units have been designed by renowned interior designer Robert Couturier, while the penthouse received a meticulous redesign by acclaimed architect Peter Pennoyer. A distinctive feature across multiple residences is libraries constructed with 18th century antique chestnut wood panels imported from Versailles, creating spaces of exceptional historical character and elegance.

The apartments typically feature multiple fireplaces, nearly 10 foot ceilings, and hardwood floors throughout. Many units include state-of-the-art kitchens with high end appliances such as Wolf stoves and Miele dishwashers, complemented by butler's pantries with wine storage. The penthouse and several other residences boast private terraces and conservatories, while maintaining original architectural details like crown moldings, marble mantles, and intricate window grilles. Central air conditioning and custom audio systems are standard in the renovated units.

The building offers flexible ownership terms, permitting 60% financing, pied-à-terre ownership, trust purchases, and pet ownership. There are no summer work rules, and the building maintains a 2.5% flip tax paid by purchasers. The Stokes family connection to New York real estate runs deep – the architect's uncle, William Earle Dodge Stokes, built the famous Ansonia on the Upper West Side, while the family's former brownstone mansion now serves as The Morgan Library's bookstore.