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The $65 Million Secret: 5 Shocking Facts About 236 Fifth Avenue, NYC's Gilded Age Landmark

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The building at 236 Fifth Avenue, New York City, is far more than just another address on Manhattan’s most famous thoroughfare; it is a meticulously renovated Gilded Age landmark that recently became the epicenter of a massive, high-stakes commercial real estate deal. As of late 2025, this 11-story structure in the vibrant NoMad district stands as a perfect fusion of historic architecture and cutting-edge office technology, making it one of the most intriguing properties in the city. Its transformation, led by the Kaufman Organization, has cemented its status as a premier destination for luxury office tenants seeking a blend of classic charm and state-of-the-art amenities.

The property’s story, which spans over a century, includes a dramatic $65 million ground lease transaction, the installation of a massive, controversial piece of public art, and the presence of one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. Whether you are a real estate investor, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the secrets hidden along Fifth Avenue, the facts surrounding this building are both surprising and essential to understanding the evolution of the NoMad neighborhood.

The Biography of a Landmark: Key Facts on 236 Fifth Avenue

The building at 236 Fifth Avenue is a cornerstone of the Madison Square North Historic District, embodying the commercial and architectural history of the area known today as NoMad (North of Madison Square Park). Its profile is a testament to New York's enduring real estate market and its ability to reinvent historic structures for the modern age.

  • Address: 236 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
  • Location: NoMad (North of Madison Square Park), Manhattan
  • Original Construction Date: 1907
  • Architectural Style: Early 20th-century commercial style (typical of the Gilded Age)
  • Current Primary Use: Luxury Commercial Office Space
  • Total Stories: 11
  • Number of Units: 11 (commercial floor plates)
  • Owner/Leasing Company: The Kaufman Organization (Kaufman Leasing Company)
  • Notable Tenant: ilili Restaurant (Lebanese/Mediterranean fine dining)
  • Key Feature: 100-foot-tall outdoor mural by Tristan Eaton
  • Recent Major Transaction: $65,000,000 Ground Lease for 95,000 SF (representing the seller)
  • Historic Context: Located along the former "Ladies' Mile" shopping district

The $65 Million Real Estate Blockbuster and Luxury Office Rebirth

The most significant and recent news surrounding 236 Fifth Avenue is its pivotal role in a major commercial real estate transaction. In a complex and high-value deal, the property was the subject of a $65,000,000 ground lease covering approximately 95,000 square feet of space.

This massive transaction underscores the enduring value of Fifth Avenue real estate, particularly in the rapidly gentrifying NoMad district. A ground lease of this magnitude signals strong developer confidence in the long-term viability and profitability of the location, often paving the way for further capital improvements and modernization.

The Kaufman Organization's Vision: Tech-Forward Renovation

Following the lease and renovation, the building has been completely repositioned as a state-of-the-art office building. The Kaufman Organization spearheaded a dramatic overhaul that transformed the century-old structure into a contemporary, luxury workspace.

The renovation focused heavily on integrating "new tech amenities" that appeal to modern tenants. These features include a smartphone security system for seamless, secure access and a turnkey cloud-based infrastructure designed to provide immediate, high-speed connectivity for incoming businesses.

The aesthetic upgrades are equally impressive. The new lobby design is described as being "Inspired by the rippling effects of water," creating a tranquil and visually striking entrance that contrasts with the building's historic facade.

"The Gilded Lady": A 100-Foot Mural and the Evelyn Nesbit Story

Perhaps the most visually arresting and unique feature of 236 Fifth Avenue is the massive, 100-foot-tall mural adorning its south-facing wall. This prominent piece of public art is titled "The Gilded Lady" and was created by the renowned street artist Tristan Eaton.

The vibrant, colorful artwork depicts Evelyn Nesbit, a famous model, chorus girl, and actress from the early 20th century. Nesbit was a central figure in the infamous "Trial of the Century," a sensational murder case that took place nearby in the Gilded Age.

The mural serves as a powerful nod to the neighborhood's dramatic history, explicitly tying the modern office building back to the Madison Square North Historic District and the era in which the structure was built in 1907. This artistic choice provides the building with a strong cultural identity, making it a recognized landmark far beyond its real estate status.

More Than Offices: The Culinary Destination of ilili Restaurant

Adding another layer of complexity and appeal to the address is the presence of ilili Restaurant, a highly acclaimed Lebanese and Mediterranean fine-dining establishment.

Located within 236 Fifth Avenue, ilili has become a NoMad NYC fixture, known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic cuisine. The restaurant’s continued operation and popularity—even being mentioned in recent public health notices in early 2025—confirm its active and important role in the building's ecosystem, providing a high-end amenity for office tenants and a destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike.

The combination of luxury office space above and a premier Lebanese/Mediterranean restaurant on the ground floor and event spaces creates a dynamic, mixed-use environment. This configuration is highly desirable in modern Manhattan real estate, offering tenants convenience, prestige, and a vibrant social hub right at their doorstep. The building's strategic location, with easy access to major transportation and the Flatiron District, further enhances its appeal as a central hub for commerce and culture.

The $65 Million Secret: 5 Shocking Facts About 236 Fifth Avenue, NYC's Gilded Age Landmark
236 fifth avenue nyc
236 fifth avenue nyc

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