It’s not every day that the former home of a legend like Billie Holiday comes to market. The jazz legend lived in 26 W. 87th Street until her death in 1959, and even released her famous album “Lady in Satin” while living there in 1958. And now the legendary property could be yours, as Kelly Killoren Bensimon and Lynne Mazin of Douglas Elliman have listed the home for $13.995 million.
See also: Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka Sell Their NYC Home For $6.99 Million
The home was built in early 1900, and since has been lovingly renovated to retain its historic charm, with Amie Sachs undertaking the latest updates. Sitting just a block from Central Park and boasting over 6,300 square feet, there’s little this townhouse lacks. All six levels are optimized with the latest technology while still retaining their charming Renaissance Revival details. Seven bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two powder rooms are just the start of all this home has to offer. The home’s mahogany doors open to a foyer adorned with gorgeously detailed paneling, a chandelier and a herringbone oak floor. The nearby living room boasts a 12-foot carved plaster ceiling and fireplace mantle.
A SubZero refrigerator/freezer, Bertazzoni six-top gas range, two Fisher and Paykel dishwashers, two sinks, marble countertops, subway tile backsplash, wine refrigerator, full wet bar and powder room are just a few of the state-of-the-art kitchen’s offerings. The formal dining room’s custom-crafted dome ceiling makes it the perfect backdrop for both intimate gatherings and larger events.
The primary suite spans the entire third floor, with all 1,100 square feet serving as a private, romantic oasis. The sophisticated and functional space includes a spacious bedroom, fully outfitted dressing room and incredible bathroom, complete with heated floors, a deep soaking tub, dual sinks, a spa shower and gorgeous marble detailing. A private library provides the perfect getaway thanks to its gas fireplace, herringbone floor, large windows and high ceiling. The remaining bedrooms feature stunning details such as large windows, ensuite bathrooms, fireplace mantles, seating areas and expansive closets.
Perhaps the home’s most impressive feature is the garden floor, which houses the media room with wallpaper by Lenny Kravitz, an open kitchen, intimate office space and a luxuriously outfitted bedroom behind the private street level entrance. Perfect for hosting family and friends, the garden floor offers ultimate both privacy and entertaining space, including the stunning outdoor garden, which features a dining and lounge area, heat lamp and barbeque.
The home’s basement houses the temperature-controlled wine room and laundry room, truly providing everything one could wish for in an NYC home. To top it all off, the home has been outfitted with Cat 6 network for optimum internet connectivity for those who work from home and fully upgraded plumbing and electrical systems. With both a storied past and all the conveniences of a modern home, 26 W. 87th Street is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. $13.955 million, Kelly Killoren Bensimon and Lynne Mazin, Douglas Elliman Real Estate, [email protected], [email protected], 212.645.4040, 212.352.3400
Photography by: Evan Joseph Photography
