Manhattan's largest private residence, a sprawling 20,000-square-foot townhouse on the Upper East Side, has sold for $38 million. The sale of the historic Woolworth Mansion concludes a more than decade-long effort to sell the property, which was once listed for as high as $90 million.
The deal for the limestone mansion on East 80th Street was finalized on November 28, according to public records, after entering into contract in late October. The final price reflects a significant 58% discount from its ambitious 2012 asking price, marking a notable moment for the city's ultra-luxury real estate market.
Key Takeaways
- The Woolworth Mansion, Manhattan's largest private home, sold for $38 million.
- The property was initially listed for $90 million in 2012.
- The home was previously owned by the family of Lucille Roberts, the late fitness entrepreneur.
- The 20,000-square-foot residence features 9 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and extensive original details.
A Long Road to a Landmark Sale
The journey to the $38 million sale has been a lengthy one. After its initial debut on the market for $90 million in 2012, the mansion's price saw several adjustments over the years. By the fall of 2024, the asking price had been lowered to $59 million. It was most recently listed for just under $50 million last year.
The final sale price, while a substantial figure, is seen by some market observers as a reflection of both the property's unique scale and the current appetite for grand, historic homes. Adam Modlin of Modlin Group, the listing broker, had previously characterized the residence as a significant value for a home of its size and pedigree on the Upper East Side.
Historical Significance
The mansion was designed in 1915 by the renowned architect C.P.H. Gilbert. It was one of three neighboring townhouses commissioned by five-and-dime store magnate Frank W. Woolworth for his daughters. This particular home was built for his daughter, Helena Woolworth McCann.
Inside a Gilded Age Masterpiece
The 35-foot-wide residence is a showcase of early 20th-century craftsmanship. Many of its original architectural details have been preserved, including intricate stonework, stained glass windows, and detailed mosaics. The property was designed for grand-scale entertaining, a purpose it fulfilled for its most recent long-term owners.
Unmatched Scale and Amenities
The interior of the mansion spans multiple levels, all connected by an elevator. The layout includes nine bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and three separate kitchens. A massive formal dining room stands ready for large gatherings.
Modern amenities have been integrated into the historic structure, including a private gym and a sauna. The home also features a library, a solarium, and a rooftop lounge offering private outdoor space in the heart of the city.
Property at a Glance: The Woolworth Mansion boasts approximately 20,000 square feet of living space, making it the largest single-family home in Manhattan. It features 9 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms.
The Lucille Roberts Era
For decades, the mansion was the home of the family of Lucille Roberts, the founder of the popular chain of women's fitness centers. Roberts and her family acquired the property in 1995 for $6 million, which is equivalent to about $13 million in today's currency.
The family undertook an extensive, multi-year restoration of the home. Lucille Roberts lived there until her passing in 2003, and her family continued to reside in the mansion until 2016. The home became famous for the Roberts' annual holiday parties, which were legendary events that hosted up to 1,000 guests.
"That’s what my mother did in the last years of her life," her son, Kevin Roberts, told The Wall Street Journal last year, describing how his parents went "all out" for the festive gatherings.
Interestingly, despite her career in fitness, Lucille Roberts was hesitant to install a gym inside the historic home. Her son Kirk noted that she felt it would "ruin the aesthetic," preferring to work out in nearby Central Park or at a local gym.
Recent History and Market Interest
Before its recent sale, the mansion briefly appeared on the luxury rental market in 2021. It was initially offered for $80,000 per month, with the price later increasing to $125,000 for a summer term. Ultimately, the owners chose to pursue a sale amid what has been described as a renewed interest in large, move-in-ready prewar townhouses.
The property also captured the attention of lifestyle entrepreneur Martha Stewart, who toured the estate. She later highlighted an auction by Kaminski Auctions featuring 565 items from the Roberts' extensive collection. The items ranged from decorative silk pillows to a Steinway grand piano, offering a glimpse into the life lived within the mansion's walls.
The sale of the Woolworth Mansion closes a significant chapter for one of New York City's most iconic private residences, transferring its legacy to a new, undisclosed owner.
