A sophisticated penthouse perched above Manhattan’s prestigious Carnegie Hill neighborhood has officially entered the luxury real estate market for $5.5 million. The residence, located at 1155 Park Avenue, once belonged to the late businessman Maurice Tempelsman and offers an exceptional blend of historic charm, privacy and expansive outdoor living space rarely found in New York City.
Positioned atop the iconic prewar cooperative building, the two bedroom, three and a half bathroom home delivers sweeping views of Central Park, the East River and the Manhattan skyline. While many luxury apartments in the city offer terraces, this penthouse stands apart for its sprawling landscaped outdoor areas that resemble a secluded rooftop garden suspended above the bustling streets below.
Originally built in 1914 by renowned developers Bing & Bing and designed by architect Robert T. Lyons, the cooperative remains one of Carnegie Hill’s most admired residential buildings. The property combines timeless architectural details with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor entertaining areas.
The penthouse centers around extraordinary terrace living
One of the most striking features of the residence is its extensive network of flowering terraces that wrap around the apartment. At the center sits an oversized main terrace designed to function as a private outdoor retreat rather than a traditional city balcony.
The outdoor space includes multiple seating and dining areas carefully arranged to maximize comfort and privacy. Mature landscaping, lush greenery and elegant design details create a peaceful atmosphere that feels removed from the fast pace of Manhattan life.
From the terraces, residents can take in views stretching toward Central Park and the East River while also enjoying dramatic city skyline vistas. The penthouse’s elevated position provides both sunlight and serenity throughout the day.
The seamless connection between interior rooms and outdoor spaces also allows for effortless entertaining. Large openings from the main living areas lead directly onto the terraces, creating a natural flow between indoor and outdoor living.
Elegant interiors preserve classic prewar details
A graceful staircase welcomes guests into the penthouse and opens directly into the formal dining room. Natural light fills the home from multiple exposures, enhancing the airy atmosphere throughout the residence.
The dining room serves as a central gathering space and connects directly to the terrace, making it ideal for hosting dinners and social events.
The living room features generous proportions and centers around a wood burning fireplace, adding warmth and classic character to the home.
Nearly every room within the apartment enjoys terrace access, allowing the outdoor spaces to become a true extension of the residence itself.
A separate hallway leads to the private living quarters, helping create a sense of quiet separation from the entertaining areas.
The primary bedroom offers substantial closet space along with a windowed bathroom that brings in additional natural light. Nearby, a library currently serves as a secondary living area but can easily be converted into a second bedroom. The library also includes an ensuite bathroom and opens directly onto the terrace.
Completing the layout is a windowed kitchen along with a separate staff room and bathroom.
Carnegie Hill building offers classic New York luxury
Beyond the residence itself, 1155 Park Avenue remains one of Carnegie Hill’s most established prewar cooperatives. Residents benefit from a range of upscale amenities designed to support comfortable city living.
The building includes:
A full time doorman
A live in resident manager
A fitness center
Bicycle storage
Laundry facilities
Private storage spaces
The cooperative also permits pets and allows financing up to 40%, an attractive feature for many luxury buyers navigating Manhattan’s competitive housing market. A 2.5% flip tax applies to the sale.
Located in the heart of Carnegie Hill on the Upper East Side, the residence sits near Central Park, Museum Mile and some of Manhattan’s most desirable cultural destinations. The neighborhood is widely known for its quiet tree lined streets, historic architecture and refined atmosphere.
A rare opportunity in Manhattan’s luxury market
Penthouse residences with expansive outdoor spaces remain among the most coveted properties in New York City, particularly within historic prewar cooperatives. The combination of privacy, classic architecture and outdoor entertaining space makes this listing especially distinctive in the current luxury market.
The home’s connection to Maurice Tempelsman also adds another layer of intrigue for buyers interested in residences with notable ownership history.
While modern luxury towers continue reshaping Manhattan’s skyline, properties like 1155 Park Avenue offer a different appeal rooted in timeless elegance, architectural heritage and understated sophistication.
For buyers seeking a peaceful retreat in the center of Manhattan, the Carnegie Hill penthouse presents a rare chance to experience elevated city living surrounded by landscaped terraces, skyline views and classic New York character.