It represents the vision of acclaimed architect, the famed Charles Gwathmey.
This is the only apartment Gwathmey ever designed from the ground up, and required over four years to complete.

According to the architect, the intention was to

“physically maintain and visually exploit the volumetric integrity and structural expression of the existing barrel vaulted space, while adding a master bedroom suite and study/library balcony, and integrating an eclectic painting and sculpture collection.”

Located in the coveted Police Building, in New Yorkâ€s Little Italy, within the walls of the former gym, this architecturally unique condominium thus features soaring ceilings and many large skylights, making for a light and airy feel. With tons of contemporary flare, the gorgeous 6,600 square foot residence consists of 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Once offered at a hefty $26 million, the loft-apartment is now at a bargain price for the posh SoHo neighborhood. Amenities at the building include a 24-hour doorman and concierge, fitness center, and stunning outdoor garden space.

Originally offered at $30 million in May 2008, this unique apartment is now tagged at $14,5 million.

On the main level of the twenty-five foot high, steel trussed volume, is the multi-use living/dining/ entertainment/gallery articulated by custom designed, space defining furniture. At the east end of the space is the master bedroom suite, and study/library balcony accessed by an exposed stair, which rotates at the landing, and runs parallel, behind the existing longitudinal steel truss, to attic guest bedrooms, over the kitchen, master baths and dressing rooms.

The study/library balcony is suspended under the east end of the barrel vault and revealed from the master bedroom below, by a continuous radial skylight in the floor, articulating its separation while maintaining the volumetric extension.

The floor of the balcony defines the bedroom ceiling, floating asymmetrically within the existing orthogonal building frame, articulating its objectiveness and sectional variation.
Three large skylights were inserted into the south side of the barrel vaulted roof, providing natural light into the longitudinal internal façade of the space and revealing the classic building pediment above.

Interesting Facts:

On May 6, 1905, amid the pomp and ceremony of a police band and mounted troops, mayor George B. McClellan wielded a silver trowel and laid the cornerstone for what was to become one of New Yorkâ€s enduring landmarks. Hoppin and Koenâ€s design was majestic indeed. Influenced by Londonâ€s Old Bailey Courthouse, it went far beyond its original inspiration to incorporate architectural and artistic elements from Europeâ€s grandest chateaus and palazzos. With its magnificent façade and soaring interior spaces, this new Police Building was an achievement to rival showplaces as the Frick and Vanderbilt Mansions.

In 1978, the Police Building was designated a New York City Landmark, and in 1980, it was singled out for national significance when it was officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. In 1984, the city chose Fourth Jeffersonian Associates to restore the landmark structure and convert itâ€s grand civic space into a unique private residence.

In 1997 Gwathmey-Siegel & Associates was retained by the current owners of the former gymnasium to create a space unparalleled in size and design that would fit their desire to move from a Park Avenue prewar to a new home in SoHo.

It stands out like dog’s balls because
it is a beautiful old stately home,
right smack in the middle of our business district,
surrounded by tall glass buildings, trams,
buses, business people walking to work – everywhere!

But it sure is beautiful.

The epitome of a beautiful heritage home entry.

These two rooms (above & below) look the same at first,
then take a closer look, tricky aye!

I think this is my favorite room, the study.

The artwork in this home is amazing,
and I’ve no doubt it is all original, exy, art!

Betcha weren’t expecting the kitchen to look like this!
Just divine!

I’m not usually a fan of poster beds,
but this one is gorgeous, and makes the room stunning.

And if you want to see another gorgeous home,
owned by PM Bruce’s father on My Pear Tree House blog,
go here and check it out –
Obviously a bloody wealthy family that lot!

And there’s the hustle n bustle of St Kilda Road just over the balcony!

AND Here’s what the Agent said about it!

“Airlie Mansion” circa 1891 ~ Live where the Prime Minister lived!
Eminently known as the ‘Airlie Mansion’ this stately Victorian residence was formerly home to Stanley Melbourne Bruce (Prime Minister of Australia 1923-1929). Meticulously restored and substantially refurbished, the mansion features sublime contemporary interiors alongside illustrious Renaissance Revival and Italianate architecture.

Retaining intricate period detail – such as mosaic and tessellated tiling, ornate ceilings and fireplaces – the grand residence comprises of formal and informal sitting/dining rooms, modern European kitchen with Smeg appliances, potential for up to 6 luxurious bedrooms, formal study, billiard room and extensive outdoor terraces and courtyards. Additional features include reverse cycle heating & cooling, alarm, CBUS, basement cellar/storage and parking for 6 cars.

WOWEE

]]> https://www.loftenberg.com/st-kilda-road-airlie-mansion-1891/feed/ 0