That signature line from iconic comedian Joan Rivers nearly echoes off the walls as you peek inside her former, one-of-a-kind apartment at the edge of Manhattan’s Central Park.
Although she died in 2014, the unique luxury residence is still making headlines—and it recently turned up for a market encore, priced at $34.5 million.
Unmatched Elegance and Beauty
“It’s amazing and unique,” says listing agent Jenny Lenz, of Dolly Lenz real estate. “There is nothing like it anywhere else in New York.”
That’s not hard to believe. After Rivers’ death, the ornate, 2.5-story, nearly 5,100-square-foot penthouse hit the market for $28 million. Many of her treasured possessions remained in the residence, as did her splendid interior style. The current owners saved quite a few of those pieces and may offer them for sale beyond the purchase price.
A Historical Gem
The famous, limestone-clad, 12-unit building sits on a beautiful, Upper East Side street.
It was designed in 1910 by esteemed architect Horace Trumbauer in the neo-French Classic style, which Rivers melded with an opulent, Gilded Age motif. And voila! The apartment is beyond compare.
A Palace Like No Other
“It looks like Versailles,” says Lenz, who adds that the spacious stone terraces (recently redone, by the way) create the feel of an “Italian piazza.”
Rivers had the original architectural details carefully restored by museum-trained artisans, and the result is a spectacularly ornate residence with a dramatic, two-story gallery and living room—all lavishly arranged within 23-foot ceilings and parquet-de-Versailles flooring.
A Unique Haven
“Its light and scale are irreplaceable,” says Lenz, adding that the unique illumination from the huge windows cannot be found elsewhere in New York.
Luxurious Manhattan Residence with Historic Charm
Experience the epitome of luxury living in this distinguished Manhattan residence. Boasting five wood-burning fireplaces, a stately paneled library, and an exquisite formal dining room adorned with 18th-century French panels, this home exudes timeless elegance.
Located on the second floor, the opulent primary bedroom offers sweeping views of the city skyline and Central Park, creating a truly enchanting retreat. With a total of five bedrooms and five full baths, this residence provides ample space for both relaxation and entertainment.
Not only does this remarkable property showcase classic beauty, but it is also part of an exclusive white-glove building known as The Spencer. Residents enjoy access to numerous luxurious amenities, promising an elevated lifestyle. However, it’s important to note that these privileges come with a monthly fee of $16,812.
Curious about why the current owners have made the difficult decision to part with such a unique dwelling? According to Dolly Lenz, the renowned real estate agent representing this property, there are simply no true comparisons throughout all of Manhattan.
Originally European homeowners who cherished their rare Manhattan pied-a-terre, the owners found themselves spending more time with family overseas due to the pandemic. They recognized that someone else could truly appreciate and make the most of this exceptional home.
It is worth noting that the late Joan Rivers, a multifaceted talent and icon in comedy, owned this remarkable residence until her passing at the age of 81. Known for her bold personality and infectious charisma, Rivers achieved household recognition throughout her prolific career.
In addition to her notable accomplishments as a comedian, actress, producer, and television host, Rivers became a prominent red carpet commentator. She co-hosted the E! network’s beloved fashion show “Fashion Police” until 2014 and starred alongside her daughter Melissa Rivers in the reality series “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?”
For more information about this extraordinary Manhattan residence, please contact Dolly Lenz and Jenny Lenz, esteemed agents from Dolly Lenz Real Estate.