Historic Upper East Side Townhouse, Once Home to Literary & Political Power Couple, Lists for $13.5 Million
A rare opportunity has emerged to own a piece of Manhattan history. The stately Upper East Side townhouse, long associated with the late Phyllis Cerf Wagner – a socialite, actress, and collaborator with Dr. Seuss – has been listed for $13.5 million. The residence, steeped in decades of captivating stories and frequented by luminaries like Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra, offers a glimpse into a bygone era of New York society.
The Italianate-style property, located between Lexington and Park avenues in the Lenox Hill neighborhood, carries a rich legacy. Wagner initially purchased the home in 1941 with her first husband, Bennett Cerf, the co-founder of Random House. Following Cerf’s death in 1971, she married former New York City mayor Robert Wagner Jr., and continued to reside in the townhouse until her passing in 2006 at the age of 90. The property previously sold for $8.5 million in 2006 to jewelry designer Suzanne Sheik, and then again in 2010 for $14 million to an unnamed owner.
Now, the 16-room residence is being offered by James Weiss, Andrew Schwartz, and Ty Mabry of The Corcoran Group. The home, originally designed and built in the 1870s by architect Robert Sexton, spans 7,200 square feet and features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Recent renovations have seamlessly blended historic charm with modern amenities, including a security system and air-conditioning.
Upon entering the townhouse, guests are greeted by a marble-clad foyer that leads to a well-appointed eat-in kitchen, complete with a professional-grade La Cornue range. Adjacent to the kitchen is a sitting and dining area with coffered ceilings, which opens onto a private, trellis-covered garden. This outdoor oasis features a water wall, mature plantings, and custom lighting, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The parlor level boasts a reception lounge, a black-and-white-striped living room, and a library/dining room, providing ample space for entertaining.
The third level is dedicated to the primary suite, featuring a bay window, a morning bar, and a pass-through wardrobe connecting to a luxurious bathroom. The bathroom is equipped with dual vanities, a glass-encased shower, and a soaking tub, with window coverings adorned with glass orbs. The top two floors house additional bedrooms and a sky-lit den/office, while the basement contains a wine cellar and laundry room.
Notably, the townhouse was previously sold with an impressive collection of artwork, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Anish Kapoor, and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as signed books by literary giants William Faulkner and Joan Didion, and an oil painting by Frank Sinatra. While these items are currently on display, they are not included in the current sale.
The property’s history and prime location make it a truly exceptional offering. It represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of New York City’s cultural heritage and live in a residence that has witnessed decades of fascinating events and hosted some of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.
