Located in the heart of Central Harlem’s historic Strivers’ Row district, 207 West 139th Street is a turn-of-the-century townhouse, designed by the renowned architect Stanford White of McKim, Mead & White.
Constructed between 1891 and 1893, this Italian Renaissance Revival style 19-foot-wide townhouse is part of the esteemed St. Nicholas Historic Area and is protected by the NYC Landmarks Department. The exterior showcases the distinctive dark terra cotta brick characteristic of Strivers Row homes, reflecting the rich architectural heritage of the neighborhood.
Spanning five floors and over 4,700 square feet, the residence boasts six spacious bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The home has been meticulously renovated to cater to contemporary living while preserving its historical essence. The renovation includes new kitchens equipped with Miele and Bertazzoni appliances, newly tiled bathrooms, white oak flooring, and all-new mechanical systems. A newly constructed stairway, crowned by a skylight, allows natural light to illuminate each floor.
The townhouse retains its original charm with expansive rooms, 10-foot ceilings, a Juliet balcony, and two unique decorative fireplaces, epitomizing the best of townhouse living.
The garden level features an open-plan first floor ideal for entertaining, with spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas, along with an extra cooking pantry. This level provides private access to an attached garage with parking for two cars and access to the private Strivers Row alley and parking area.
The second and third floors each contain two spacious bedrooms with ensuite baths. The second floor includes a cozy built-in bench, a feature unique to Strivers Row homes. One of the third-floor rooms is currently utilized as an additional media and hobby area. The top floor offers a standalone apartment complete with its own kitchen, bathroom, and two bedrooms, making it perfect for guests.
The lower level features a recreation room, study, storage, and an exercise room, all with nearly 8-foot ceilings, providing ample space for various activities.
Strivers’ Row, known for its historical significance and distinctive architecture, began in the late 19th century as part of a planned community by contractor David H. King, Jr, developer of Madison Square Garden.
As more African Americans began to move into Harlem, the area “attracted both leaders of the black community and upwardly-mobile professionals, or “strivers”, who gave the district its colloquial name.”
Over the years, many notable African American musicians, athletes, entertainers and politicians called this neighborhood home and it still remains one of the most sought-after enclaves in all of NYC.
This exceptional property is currently listed at $3,295,000 with Sarah Pedersen.
