129 East 74th Street, New York, NY 10021

A Historic Townhouse with an Extraordinary Private Garden

Situated on a beautiful tree-lined street between Park and Lexington Avenues, 129 East 74th Street is a distinguished 17-foot-wide, landmarked townhouse dating to 1879. Designed by architect John C. Burne for John McGlynn, the residence is a wonderful example of the neo-Grec architectural style that defined much of the Upper East Side during the late 19th century. Rich in history and architectural character, this exceptional property presents a rare opportunity to undertake a complete renovation and create a magnificent single-family home in one of Manhattan’s most desirable residential neighborhoods.

The townhouse retains its handsome historic facade, original stoop, distinctive ornamental window surrounds, and roof cornice. Behind its classic exterior, the residence offers four levels of living space, with soaring 10’6” ceilings on the parlor floor, 10-foot ceilings on the third floor, and 9’6” ceilings on the fourth floor, as well as a full basement.

Currently configured as two duplex apartments, the townhouse offers extraordinary potential to be transformed into an elegant single-family residence with four to five bedrooms, exceptional entertaining rooms, and beautifully appointed private living spaces. The gracious proportions, impressive ceiling heights, and flexible floor plan provide the ideal canvas for creating a home that seamlessly blends historic architectural character with the finest in modern design and amenities.

One of the property’s most remarkable features is its extraordinary 816-square-foot private garden, measuring approximately 17 feet wide by 48 feet deep. A true rarity in Manhattan, this expansive outdoor retreat offers endless possibilities for lush landscaping, outdoor entertaining, and al fresco dining. With its generous dimensions and exceptional privacy, the garden has the potential to become a spectacular extension of the home’s living and entertaining spaces.

129 East 74th Street is also a significant part of the Upper East Side’s architectural heritage. Built as one of a pair of adjoining brownstones at 129 and 131 East 74th Street, the residence is particularly notable for the preservation of its original neo-Grec ornamentation. The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission specifically recognized No. 129 for retaining nearly all of its distinctive historic facade detailing.

Perfectly positioned in the Upper East Side Historic District, just moments from Central Park, Madison Avenue’s world-class boutiques, celebrated restaurants, galleries, and cultural institutions, this townhouse offers the opportunity to create a truly exceptional residence in one of Manhattan’s most coveted neighborhoods.