Imagine owning a piece of New York City history—a $45.5 million townhouse designed by the same architect who worked with the Astors and Roosevelts. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this a priceless piece of history or just another overpriced Manhattan property? Let’s dive into the story of this Upper East Side gem and let you decide.
This neo-Georgian townhouse, originally commissioned in 1904 by Dr. Frederick S. Lee—a Columbia University doctor and former president of the New York Botanical Garden—has a lineage as impressive as its architecture. Designed by Charles A. Platt, not only an architect but also a landscape designer and painter, the home blends artistry and functionality. And this is the part most people miss: By 1944, it was gifted by Time magazine founder Henry Luce to the China Institute, becoming ‘China House’ for seven decades. After hitting the market in 2014 for $32 million, it sold in 2021 for $16.8 million, sparking a gut renovation that transformed it into a modern masterpiece.
Last year, it even starred as the 2024 Kips Bay Decorator Show House, showcasing its timeless elegance. Listed by Ryan Serhant and Melissa Post of Serhant (yes, that Ryan Serhant from Netflix’s Owning New York), this property isn’t just a home—it’s a conversation starter. Bold claim: Could this be the most historically rich yet contemporary townhouse in NYC?
Spanning 14,346 square feet, it boasts six bedrooms, seven baths, four powder rooms, five fireplaces, and 3,500 square feet of outdoor space, including a landscaped roof deck and a 35-foot-wide garden. The renovation added new floors, windows, and a lower-level ‘wellness’ floor with a steam room, sauna, spa showers, and a cold plunge—perfect for unwinding after a day in the city.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a parlor-level foyer leading to a den and a chef’s kitchen with garden views. The third floor houses a formal dining room seating 16, complete with a fireplace and butler’s pantry, alongside a 30-foot-wide living room featuring beamed ceilings, herringbone oak floors, and French doors. Thought-provoking question: Does this blend of historic charm and modern luxury justify the price tag?
The fourth floor is dedicated to the primary suite, offering a fireplace, two dressing rooms, spa-like baths, a sitting room, and a wet bar. Another level features four ensuite bedrooms and a playroom, while the garden floor includes a staff/guest bedroom, media room, wine cellar, gym, and access to the lush garden.
This townhouse isn’t just a home—it’s a testament to New York’s past, present, and future. Controversial interpretation: Is it a trophy property for the elite, or a preserved piece of history worth every penny? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
