Architect Thierry Despont’s Longtime Tribeca Townhouse Lists for $25M
Two months ago, the late and legendary I.M. Pei’s New York City townhouse, asking $8 million, sold for $8.6 million after a bidding battle. And, other residences of architects have also been seen on the market lately, such as Vincent Amore’s modern cottage along Connecticut’s coast and William Pederson’s waterfront Shelter Island oasis. The appeal of these properties is simple—a master architect’s home represents some of their finest and most personal work. Adding to the fashionable fray, architect/designer Thierry Despont, who famously restored the Statue of Liberty and has had clientele like Calvin Klein and Bill Gates, just listed his longtime Tribeca townhouse for $24.999 million.
Constructed in 1915 and acquired by French-born Despont around 25 years ago, 182 Franklin Street is an encapsulation of his vision. After all, the architect is the one who converted it into a single-family home, or rather, a 10,000-square-foot stronghold of style. A new owner may wish to put their stamp on it, but as it stands today, nothing needs much messing with.
The colorful penthouse great room commands the most attention, spanning the entire length of the building, boasting 15-foot ceilings, and wearing Despont’s signature warm tones. However, the chef’s kitchen with black hardwood floors, the billiard room, and the two wine cellars are also suave spots for entertaining. With 5 floors above ground and a lower level, an elevator can take you wherever you need to go, too.
According to the listing, construction of a further top level is possible for the adventurous homeowner. For a buyer pleased with the current footprint, the Tribeca mansion offers four bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and two half baths.
Rueben Schatz, Michael Lorber, Alexander Boriskin and Cameron Begg of Douglas Elliman share the listing.