Building: WILLIAM LESCAZE HOUSE AND OFFICE

A pioneer of the “International Style,” the Swiss-born American architect William Edmond Lescaze, a confirmed modernist, set out to reinvent Manhattan townhouses with clean lines and sincerity in approach. According to The New Yorker, Lescaze, “a fierce perfectionist” had “taken the lead in Modernist architecture in this country.” In fact, Lescaze designed 211 East 48th to be his first New York City townhouse, as well as his personal home and studio. It also became New York City’s first modern residence in 1936 and the first residence to have central air conditioning. Paying close attention to the balance of solid space and voids, the home was one of the first American structures to incorporate glass bricks into its construction. Lescaze was eager to create vast amounts of natural light in the home, while remaining fuel efficient and preserving a sense of privacy.

Current ownership recognized the historical importance of this Landmarked townhouse during its entire restoration and repair. Updates include: a glass-enclosed hydraulic elevator, a Boffi kitchen, central air conditioning, new structural steel inside and out, and a large north-facing courtyard with solid glass block skylights.

Set on a block of 26 townhouses, 211 East 48th Street represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history on a prime Turtle Bay residential block in close proximity to some of Manhattan’s finest shopping, restaurants, Midtown offices, and public transit. It will be delivered vacant.

Description Provided by Matthew Lesser