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The $10 Million Transformation: Inside 140 West 81st Street's Romanesque Revival Sanctuary To Ultra-Luxury Condos

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The iconic address of 140 West 81st Street is currently one of the most talked-about luxury residential buildings on the Upper West Side, not just for its multi-million dollar price tags, but for its stunning and unique history. As of late 2025, this building represents a perfect blend of New York City’s landmarked past and its ultra-modern luxury real estate future, having been meticulously converted from a historic religious sanctuary into just five bespoke, expansive condominium residences.

This remarkable property, nestled on a tranquil, tree-lined side street, offers an unparalleled living experience, directly contrasting its origins. Originally constructed in 1891, the structure has transitioned from serving the spiritual needs of a community to fulfilling the desire for extraordinary, one-of-a-kind urban homes, making it a true architectural and real estate marvel in the 10024 zip code.

From Third Universalist Society to Bespoke Luxury: The History of 140 West 81st Street

The story of 140 West 81st Street is a fascinating microcosm of the Upper West Side’s evolution. It is a tale of architectural preservation meeting high-end residential development.

  • Original Construction (1891): The building was originally erected for the Third Universalist Society.
  • Architectural Style: It is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, a style characterized by its round arches, heavy stonework, and often asymmetrical facades, which immediately sets it apart from the surrounding brownstones.
  • Landmark Status: Its distinctive and historic nature has earned it a landmarked status, ensuring its exterior character and historical integrity are preserved.
  • Later Religious Use: Throughout the 20th century, the building continued its life as a place of worship, most recently housing the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church.
  • The Turning Point (Circa 2013): The structure was acquired for a conversion project. The transition from a church to a residential building marked a significant shift in its use after over a century of religious service.
  • The Conversion Project: The building underwent a substantial $1.2 million conversion to transform the 26,500 square foot space into five ultra-luxury apartments.
  • Developer and Architect: The conversion was spearheaded by 81st Street Zef, LLC (developer) with the architectural vision provided by DXA Studio Architecture PLLC.

This history is what gives the residences their unique character. Unlike a standard new construction, the condos at 140 West 81st Street are literally "cast inside one of the most distinctive historical" structures in the neighborhood, ensuring no two homes are exactly alike.

Architectural Marvels and Unique Residential Features

The conversion process was not about simply dividing a large space; it was a meticulous effort to integrate modern, expansive luxury into a historic shell. The resulting residences are known for their volume, scale, and extraordinary architectural detailing.

The Fusion of Old-World Charm and Modern Grandeur

DXA Studio’s design preserved the Romanesque Revival exterior while completely reimagining the interior spaces. The result is a series of homes that feel both historic and utterly contemporary.

  • Soaring Ceilings: The sheer volume of the former church structure allowed for incredibly high ceilings, lending a sense of immense scale and airiness to the living spaces.
  • Epic Glass Walls and Conservatories: A hallmark of the conversion is the introduction of vast expanses of glass, including epic glass walls and private conservatories, which flood the homes with natural light while maintaining privacy.
  • Restored Historic Elements: Original architectural details were carefully restored and integrated, creating a dialogue between the building’s past and its present.
  • Bespoke Residences: With only five units, each home is a bespoke creation, designed to feel like a private sanctuary. The term "sanctuary" is a nod to the building's previous life, now redefined for residential comfort.

The attention to detail extends to the building's amenities, which, while limited due to the boutique nature of the property, focus on high-end service, including a part-time doorman and a part-time virtual doorman system for security and convenience.

The Ultra-Luxury Real Estate Market at 140 West 81st Street

The small collection of homes at 140 West 81st Street immediately positioned the building at the high-end of the Upper West Side real estate market. The scarcity of units, combined with the unique landmarked architecture and prime location, commands premium prices.

Spotlight on Current and Recent Listings

The listings at this address are not merely apartments; they are enormous, multi-level homes that rival traditional townhouses in size and luxury. These units are a testament to the high-value of unique Manhattan properties.

  • The Penthouse Unit (Unit PH): This is arguably the crown jewel of the building. It was recently listed for sale at an astonishing $9,995,000. The unit boasts an impressive 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and spans a vast 4,025 square feet. The penthouse likely includes some of the grandest private outdoor spaces mentioned in the architectural descriptions.
  • The Garden House (Unit #2B): Another notable listing, often referred to as "The Garden House," offers an incredible opportunity for private outdoor living. This unit features 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms across 2,802 square feet, and is marketed as having a private "park by the park," referencing its proximity to Central Park.

These figures highlight the significant investment required to own a piece of this historic Upper West Side sanctuary. The prices reflect the rarity of a boutique condo offering in a landmarked building, especially one with such high-end finishes and expansive layouts. The 10024 neighborhood is known for its affluence, but 140 West 81st Street stands out even among its peers.

Topical Authority and Neighborhood Context

The value and allure of 140 West 81st Street are intrinsically linked to its location within the Upper West Side Historic District. This area is one of New York City's most desirable residential neighborhoods, offering a blend of culture, green space, and classic New York charm.

The building's location provides residents with immediate access to a wealth of cultural and recreational entities:

  • Central Park: The western edge of Central Park is just a short walk away, offering acres of green space for recreation, a key selling point for any Manhattan residence.
  • American Museum of Natural History: The world-renowned American Museum of Natural History and the associated Hayden Planetarium are located nearby, providing unparalleled cultural access.
  • Transportation and Amenities: The area is well-served by New York City subway lines (B/C at 81st Street) and is surrounded by high-end dining, boutique shopping, and top-tier educational institutions, cementing its status as a prime residential locale.
  • Architectural Context: The Romanesque Revival facade of 140 West 81st Street contributes to the rich tapestry of architectural styles in the area, which includes numerous brownstones, Beaux-Arts apartment buildings, and other historic structures.

In conclusion, 140 West 81st Street is more than just a luxury condominium building; it is a meticulously preserved piece of New York City history that has been transformed into a collection of five unique, multi-million dollar homes. The work by DXA Studio and 81st Street Zef has created a residential statement that captures the enduring style, comfort, and deep connection to the Upper West Side, offering a truly unparalleled living experience in the heart of Manhattan.

The $10 Million Transformation: Inside 140 West 81st Street's Romanesque Revival Sanctuary to Ultra-Luxury Condos
140 west 81st street
140 west 81st street

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