These Manhattan homes share a secret: Behind them are two of New York City’s most stunning urban oases that only a privileged few can access. But now, it’s slightly easier to get in — for the right price.
In Turtle Bay and Greenwich Village, two townhouses currently for sale offer access to hidden gardens that offer an escape from the urban crush.
The first, a five-bedroom, six-bathroom property located at 239 E. 48th St., has access to the Turtle Bay Gardens through French doors in its ground floor dining room.
This exclusive landscaped escape is tucked away from the street and features “mature trees and flowering shrubs that share a common path down the center, with a fountain copied from the Villa Medici and statues,” describes the listing, held by Marcos G. Cohen of Douglas Elliman. The home is currently seeking $6.75 million.
Only 20 homes have access to the private greenspace, which has long been popular among celebrities. Past residents have included Katherine Hepburn and Bob Dylan.
The second listing is located downtown, in Greenwich Village, at 74 MacDougal St.
This rarely available six-bedroom, five-bathroom residence is one of the 22 homes that surround another secret sanctuary, the MacDougal-Sullivan Gardens, which is among New York City’s oldest historic districts.
“The community gardens have been maintained for over 100 years, landscaped with peaceful trees, stone walkways, and open green spaces,” described Marie-Claire Martineau, who shares the listing with fellow Compass agents Candia Herman, Monica Zadan and Fernando Canale. “Still today, it continues on as a place for residents to gather and children to play — truly a special oasis in one of the most coveted neighborhoods in New York City.”
Anna Wintour is currently the best known enclave resident.
In addition to the garden, the Greek Revival townhouses in this luxe section of the city are also characterized by their “rainbow of colorful exteriors,” and all were added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1983.
The 3,552-square-foot property currently up for sale is presently configured as a four-family and seeking $6.99 million.