Classic Single-Family Townhouse Opportunity on Manhattan Avenue
Welcome to 123 Manhattan Avenue, a distinguished late 19th-century townhouse offering approximately 2,720 square feet across four full floors on a 17' x 75' lot (17' x 40' built). Lovingly cared for over time, this single-family home presents a rare opportunity to restore, reimagine, and create a truly exceptional residence tailored to modern living--while preserving the integrity and charm of its historic origins.
Constructed in 1886 and designed by architect Joseph M. Dunn for prominent developer F.A. Seitz, the home is part of a cohesive row of Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival townhouses that contribute to the architectural richness of the Manhattan Valley Historic District. These homes were thoughtfully designed with a picturesque sensibility, incorporating a blend of brick, stone, and terra-cotta detailing, varied gables, and decorative elements that continue to define the character of the block today.
Inside, the home retains its classic proportions and many original architectural cues, including soaring ceiling heights, oversized windows, and two working fireplaces. The scale and layout provide an excellent foundation for a thoughtful renovation, whether preserving traditional room divisions or opening the space for a more contemporary flow.
The garden level serves as the functional heart of the home, currently configured with a kitchen, utility and laundry area, and direct access to a spacious west-facing backyard--ideal for creating an indoor-outdoor connection with potential for a reimagined kitchen and dining experience.
The parlor floor offers a gracious entry into a front seating room, leading to a rear library space that lends itself naturally to a formal dining room or additional living area. There is an opportunity to introduce a powder room on this level, enhancing both functionality and flow.
The third and fourth floors each offer two bedrooms and a full bath, providing a flexible framework for a variety of living arrangements, whether configured as a four-bedroom home or reimagined to include a full-floor primary suite. The existing structure also presents the potential for a rear extension, allowing for the creation of a four-season room or expanded dining area, with the possibility of a terrace above.
With its east-facing frontage and west-facing garden, the home benefits from balanced natural light throughout the day. Oversized windows further enhance the sense of volume and openness, reinforcing the home's inherent scale.
Beyond the home itself, the location offers the very best of Upper West Side living. Just moments from Central Park, Columbia University, and a vibrant collection of restaurants, cafes, and neighborhood amenities, the setting combines convenience with a true sense of community. Access to the B/C and 1 trains ensures seamless connectivity to the rest of the city.
For the buyer seeking a home with both substance and potential, 123 Manhattan Avenue represents a compelling opportunity to bring a historic townhouse into its next chapter--thoughtfully updated, deeply personal, and uniquely yours.
Annual property taxes: $6,912.52
5/3/2026 12:00PM - 1:30PM EDT
