$15M penthouse in a gold cupola high above Fifth Avenue heads to auction this month
Photo credit: Eitan Gamliely and Shawn May Photography
Just in time for those trillion-dollar IPOs, a unique trophy penthouse will be up for auction this summer. Set into the iconic golden cupola atop the Sohmer Piano Building at 170 Fifth Avenue, adjacent to the Flatiron Building, this renovated penthouse condo has pride of place on the New York City skyline. The commanding sky palace, spanning over 5,000 square feet on two floors with a private roof deck, is asking $14.9 million. In an upcoming auction, bids are expected to start between $6 million and $9 million.
Built in 1898, the 13-story Beaux Arts building is considered to be among architect Robert Maynicke’s most dramatic contributions to this stretch of Fifth Avenue. As 6sqft previously reported, the duplex was last listed in 2024, asking a hefty $25 million.
The penthouse duplex has been thoroughly renovated, retaining much of its Gilded Age charm. Interiors have an open design with ceilings stretching skyward, wrapped by windows with skyline views. The entire roof deck forms a private patio for outdoor skyline-gazing.
“This is the type of trophy asset that transcends traditional luxury real estate,” Chad Roffers, CEO and Co-Founder of Concierge Auctions, said.
“Positioned atop one of Manhattan’s most iconic landmark buildings with panoramic views of the city’s skyline on prestigious Fifth Avenue, the residence offers a level of rarity and provenance that resonates with collectors and discerning buyers worldwide.”
Two grand foyers bookend a circular limestone staircase below 80 feet of greenhouse-style solarium windows.
The standout feature, of course, is the golden dome cupola. Within it, a magical lounge enjoys 360-degree views that include the Empire State Building, the Flatiron Building, and Madison Square Park.
A pristine eat-in kitchen serves open living, dining, and entertaining areas. A built-in banquette and marble-topped island invite casual dining.
The private roof deck is another opportunity to enjoy dramatic Manhattan skyline vistas. Just in view is the building’s golden pinnacle.
On the lower floor of the duplex, a corner primary suite enjoys three exposures, endless closet space, and a suitably luxurious bath. Three more bedrooms are large, luxurious, and filled with light.
Bidding opens July 15 at ConciergeAuctions.com and closes July 29. Notably, 100 percent of sale proceeds will benefit the Gorongosa Project, a conservation and community-development organization in Mozambique.
[Listing details: The Sohmer Piano Building, 170 Fifth Avenue, #PH at CityRealty]
[At Sotheby’s International Realty by Lawrence Treglia and Claire Groome]
RELATED:
