River House, that very private bastion of wealth, has been rumored to be taking a turn toward the less exclusive. In a sense, yes: open house restrictions have been loosened, and residents are talking about giving up their five-story private club. In other ways, though, the building is just as exclusive as it has always been: the co-op wants to turn that private club into a 62,000-square-foot, $130 million private residence. It would be, as the Journal notes, the largest and most expensive home in the city. The place would also be, on a per square foot basis, cheaper than somewhat comparable units, at $2,100/square foot compared to other recent high, high, high-end sales of around $10,000/square-foot. But the most expensive sale in River House history so far was for only $11.65 million, so this listing is still aiming for a whole new category of buyer.
Two Brown Harris Stevens brokers have the listing, and the space would be delivered raw. UPDATE: The listing is now online. Check out the renderings above and below. Here's how the brokerbabble describes the possible design of the home, conceptualized for these renderings by Tony Ingrao:
A proposed renovation designed by renowned interior designer Tony Ingrao capitalizes on the palatial scale of this incredible home. Residents and guests will enter through a private entrance from the East 52nd Street cul-de-sac into the 8,400 square foot Entrance/Living Level. The major public rooms feature 20' ceilings and expansive light-filled spaces. The 27,500 square foot Garden/Leisure Level includes a 62' swimming pool, tennis court, IMAX screening room, wine cellar, full spa and gaming room. The 15,000 square foot Bedroom Level features a 27 x 61' Master Suite, and also includes his and her baths, dressing rooms and closets. The Staff Level offers nearly 6,000 square feet of work areas, bedrooms and lounges.The Residence will maintain self-contained mechanical systems.
The rest of the residents of River House can't be expected to do without any club facilities, and the co-op board's tentative plan is to create some of those same amenities, including a pool and a gym, elsewhere in the building. The board is also still open to working with the River Club?the non-profit that leases and operates the River House club space?to find ways to keep the club open. Regardless, fingers crossed that the penthouse happens.
· Listing: 447 East 52nd Street [BHS]
· A View and a Price, Both Astounding [WSJ]
· River House coverage [Curbed]
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