202-year-old Soho rowhouse lists for just under $8M
Here’s a chance to own one of the oldest homes in Manhattan, and likely the oldest home in the neighborhood, for $7.75 million (h/t Curbed). The Federal-style rowhouse at 57 Sullivan Street was built in 1816 and throughout its 200+ year-history it’s served as a microcosm for the diversity of the neighborhood, first owned by a local mason, then by both Irish and Italian immigrants, and most recently by a couple who fought the property’s inevitable landmarking in 2016.
57 Sullivan is a three bay, wood-framed house. A beautiful example of the Federal style, it was originally two stories. According to its landmarking designation report (pdf), the house was built as a speculative development by Frederick Youmans, who drove horse-drawn carriages. In 1817, the house was purchased by a mason named David Bogert who lived there for 12 years. The next owner, Thomas Bray, was an Irish-immigrant who owned a liquor store on nearby Grand Street. He extended the rear, added a third story, and subdivided the house into apartments that were occupied by his family and tenants who were primarily tradesmen and craftsmen.
In 1875, the basement was converted into a bar that was run by an African-American proprietor with very diverse clientele. Throughout the 20th century, most of the home’s occupants were Italian-immigrant working-class families. The report states, “Today the 57 Sullivan Street House survives as a fine example of the Federal style of architecture and a tangible reminder of the rich multi-cultural heritage of the South Village.”
Ed Freiberg, the Compass listing broker, says, “It is a really special home with such amazing history and the owners poured their heart and soul and effort into restoring it to all its glory!” The house is currently a three-family investment property but could be converted back into a single-family residence. There’s an owner’s duplex plus two one-bedrooms units on the upper floors.
The 21-foot-wide building has been beautifully maintained over the years and features both historic details and modern updates.
The iconic arched front doorway opens onto a great room filled with sunlight and vintage features.
Historic details include wood-burning brick fireplaces and ceiling medallions. The open kitchen has abundant cabinetry with stainless steel appliances.
The expansive bedroom at the rear of the house and has another brick fireplace, two large closets, garden views and a door leading outside.
The English basement features another full bathroom. The lower level has stone walls and stone flooring, with a media room, plus a large den, office and storage.
The two upper level, large apartments are similar sizes with open plan living, updated kitchens, large bedrooms, fireplaces and exposed brick walls. The top-floor unit has large skylights to let in abundant light. The two units are currently occupied but can be delivered vacant.
[Listing: 57 Sullivan Street by Ed Frieberg of Compass]
[Via Curbed]
Photos courtesy of Compass
