The Peter Stuyvesant,
258 Riverside Drive

Overview of The Peter Stuyvesant at 258 Riverside Drive

The Peter Stuyvesant at 258 Riverside Drive stands as one of the most architecturally distinguished prewar cooperatives on the Upper West Side. Built in 1908 by developer James T. Lee, the maternal grandfather of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and designed by renowned architect William L. Rouse, this 13 story Italian Renaissance Revival building occupies a prime corner location at 98th Street. Lee, who also developed the prestigious 740 Park Avenue and 998 Fifth Avenue, created this elegant residence during the era when wealthy New Yorkers transitioned from townhouse to apartment living. The building was converted to a co-op in 1988 and is part of the Riverside West End Historic District.

The building's most striking architectural feature is its distinctive arched top floor windows outlined in vibrant blue glazed terracotta, which makes it instantly recognizable along Riverside Drive. The façade follows the gentle curve of the street and features a four story rusticated limestone base topped by one of the city's most handsome cast iron entrances, complete with an arched pediment and flanking globular sconces. While the building has lost its original ornate balconies on the 6th, 8th, and 11th floors, it retains exceptional architectural integrity with consistent fenestration, quoined window surrounds on the second and third floors, and elegant wrought iron work throughout.

The Peter Stuyvesant contains 51 apartments served by two separate elevator banks, with each floor typically housing just two residences accessed via semi private landings. Apartments range from classic one bedroom units to grand floor through residences with up to six bedrooms, including spectacular second floor apartments that span entire floors. Common features throughout the building include soaring 10 foot ceilings, pristine inlaid herringbone hardwood floors, original mahogany French doors, and elaborate millwork including dentil molding and wainscoting. Many apartments retain original architectural elements such as wood beamed ceilings in formal dining rooms, decorative fireplaces with ornate mantels, and butler's pantries in larger units.

Residences offer exceptional natural light and views, with many apartments featuring direct Hudson River and Riverside Park vistas through oversized windows. The building's prime location provides over 50 feet of frontage on Riverside Drive for select apartments, while corner units enjoy multiple exposures with northern, western, and eastern light. Kitchens are typically windowed and well appointed, often featuring high end appliances including Sub Zero refrigerators and Viking ranges, while bathrooms showcase period details like mosaic tile floors and custom millwork.

Building amenities include a live in resident manager, part time doorman service, and a roof deck offering panoramic views of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Additional conveniences include bicycle storage, private storage bins, central laundry facilities, and a pet friendly policy. The cooperative allows 80% financing and charges a 2% flip tax. Located directly across from the 330 acre Riverside Park and near Columbia University, residents enjoy easy access to the 96th Street express subway station with 1, 2, and 3 train service, plus proximity to Whole Foods, local restaurants, and the cultural attractions of the Upper West Side.