Reshaping your Home: The Rise of Single-Family Townhouse Living in NYC
In New York City, the demand for spacious, private homes is fueling a major trend: the transformation of classic brownstones and townhouses into luxurious single-family residences. These single-family townhouse conversions offer homeowners the rare opportunity to enjoy historic architecture, expansive layouts, and custom design — all within the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.
The New Standard: A Townhouse Conversion Done Right
A prime example of successful townhouse renovation is 25 West 88th Street. This stunning Upper West Side home was carefully restored and redesigned by Ingui Architects as a modern single-family residence and received the top LEED certification. It features over 7,000 square feet of living space, complete with a gym, elevator, landscaped garden, and roof terrace — demonstrating the full potential of townhouse transformation.
Why Buyers Are Choosing Single-Family Townhouses?
For families and individuals alike, owning a single-family townhouse in NYC means gaining privacy, space, and long-term value. These homes offer:
- Full ownership of an entire building
- Private gardens and roof decks
- Custom floorplans and finishes
- Proximity to top schools, parks, and cultural institutions
Townhouses Ready for Custom Conversion
Here are a few exciting properties currently on the market, ideal for single-family renovation:
51 East 75th Street – $7,350,000
51 East 75th Street is a grand two-family townhouse with intricate period details, soaring ceilings, and generous living spaces. Featuring a private garden, balcony, and terrace, it offers the option to live with income from the leased upper duplex or convert it into a single-family home.
8 West 71st Street - $7,495,000
8 West 71st Street is a vacant, 10-unit Renaissance Revival brownstone—spanning ~6,100 ft² with 20-ft width, high ceilings, abundant light, and original detailing—offering a prime canvas for conversion into a luxurious single-family home. Situated on a coveted Upper West Side block near Central Park, it presents an exceptional opportunity to create a grand private residence.
23 West 69th Street - $9,250,000
23 West 69th Street, currently a 5-unit income-producing building, comes with DOB-approved plans to convert it into a 7-story single-family home with six bedrooms, a spa basement, and a garden roof deck. With private outdoor spaces, decorative fireplaces, and a commercial-grade elevator, it offers both income potential and the opportunity to create a stunning residence.
13 West 89th Street - $6,250,000
Delivered vacant and spanning over 6,300 square feet, 13 West 89th Street offers a rare opportunity to seamlessly convert a grand Renaissance Revival townhouse into a single-family home moments from Central Park.
Bringing Your Vision to Life
Transforming a multi-unit townhouse into a single-family home is an exciting journey — one that allows you to design your space around your lifestyle. Leslie J. Garfield’s expert team is here to support you at every stage, from property selection to connecting with trusted architects and contractors.
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