House: 51 Hamilton Terrace

No. 51, a dignified four-story red rose brick and limestone Neo-Federal townhouse, built by Schwatrz & Gross in 1909, over 6,000 square feet was designed for George Washington Backer, a prosperous builder, and has abundant proportions. The shape and color of the front entry portico contrast nicely with the English bond and white stone Georgian splayed window lintels while delicate ironwork adds formality and embellishments to the structure’s facade.

The wonderful building (still with an adaptable house plan) has two separate entrances and connecting stairs over the four floors. Designed as a single-family residence there are six bedrooms, a three-room parlor, and a kitchen, and there are five and a half well-appointed bathrooms. In addition to this, there are 1,200 square feet of exterior patio garden, terrace, balcony, and sideyard retreat, plus a dreamy rooftop where the decking possibilities are sundry. With a significant depth of 93 feet and a coveted width of 25 feet, millions of dollars in renovations in recent decades have far exceeded mere historical preservation to become a centerpiece for any Manhattan descendant. Beneath its stately surface, enlivened with original detail is a match made with thorough contemporary reconstruction that presents a wonderful opportunity to live and love in twenty-one rooms in the heart of the landmarked Hamilton Heights Historic District on one of New York City’s most delightfully gracious and secluded streets.

Description provided by Stefania Cardinali