81 White Street PHENew York, NY 10013

A Tribeca Penthouse for Those Who Know Where to Look

There is Tribeca, and then there is the Tribeca you discover when you leave Broadway behind. Tucked away on White St. by Cortlandt Alley, this duplex penthouse occupies a discreet plot of downtown Manhattan where the old city retains its character even as a new generation of luxury residences, galleries (so many!), and independent shops transform the neighborhood. Close to the action, yet remarkably quiet, it offers the increasingly rare pleasure of feeling removed from the city without giving anything up.

Within an intimate 11-unit condominium of two 19th-century loft buildings, beside the departed legendary Mudd Club, this 3,202-square-foot residence combines architectural drama, generous proportions, and two private landscaped terraces.

A spectacular skylight rises 27 feet above the fifth-floor entrance, illuminating two levels of ebony-stained rock maple hardwood connected by a sculptural wood-and-steel staircase. The layout accommodates three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and both northern and southern outdoor exposures.

The 23-by-23-foot living room, with gas fireplace, wet bar, and dining area, is made for entertaining without sacrificing comfort. The well-equipped chef's kitchen features a six-burner Viking range with grill, Sub-Zero refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, and custom cabinetry. A separate sitting area, spacious secondary bedroom, and full bath complete the lower level.

Upstairs, the primary suite is a particularly peaceful retreat, with excellent natural light, custom built-ins, two dressing areas, and a private terrace with motorized awning. Its generously appointed bath features California river stones, a double Jacuzzi, dual rain showerheads, and a striking waterfall feature. The third bedroom, equally suited to a home office, enjoys a wall of windows, its own skylight, a marble bath with European steam shower, and direct access to a landscaped terrace with open northern views. The elevator also provides access directly to the upper-floor landing.

Quiet central air conditioning (new equipment), washer and dryer, video intercom, and terrace irrigation systems round out the conveniences.

The renovation reflects an earlier design sensibility, but the apartment is in excellent condition. Its appeal lies less in chasing the newest fashion than in the enduring virtues of space, light, privacy, and distinctive architecture.

At $4,695,000-approximately $1,466 per square foot-this is an especially compelling opportunity in the Tribeca penthouse market. For a buyer who values substance over novelty, the combination of scale, outdoor space, quiet surroundings, and competitive pricing deserves a close look.

White-by-Cortlandt may be one of downtown's last authentic urban sites, but its restaurants, galleries, shops, and transportation are close at hand. The neighborhood is evolving; its character remains intact.

Some homes advertise themselves loudly. This one rewards the buyer who knows where to look.

Sponsor sale. Purchaser responsible for transfer taxes.