Brilliant architect I.M. Pei gave the world many one-of-a-kind structures, including the dazzling glass pyramid the Louvre Museum is famous for. The visionary passed away earlier this year at 102-years-old, and now one of his special creations that sprinkle the globe is up for sale: His personal home in Manhattan. Renovated by Pei, the special Sutton Place abode gives a peek into what the architect’s own personal taste was and is now on the market asking $8 million.After buying the diamond in the rough in 1973, Pei and his wife set to work remodeling the worn structure. The home was given an extension and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, instantly making it more luxurious and full of natural light. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Pei design without a bit of geometric flair, which is where the spiral staircase masterpiece in the center of the house came in. A skylight at the very top promises sunlight and starlight will always gracefully light up the home. Beautiful and functional, its no wonder the Peis chose to live in this 3,848-square-foot abode with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and two half baths for 45 years.The architect’s son, Sandi Pei, shared with Mansion Global that his father would often listen to classical music as he worked in his study. He also kept a notepad next to his bed, always ready for genius to strike.As well as letting inspiration flow here, Pei and his wife often enjoyed entertaining. If these walls could talk, they would share about guests like Henry Kissinger, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and painter Zao Wou-Ki. The walls would also have told of I.M. Pei’s passion for art, which was displayed throughout the house before being taken down for staging. Much of his paintings and sculptures will soon be going to auction at Christie’s, so the chance to own some of his favorite pieces is just around the corner.The Peis split their time between this stunning Sutton Place townhouse and their Katonah, NY home. The architect’s children will keep the latter, while this four-story beauty is listed with Edward F. Joseph of Christie’s International Real Estate.
