A mid-century gem in the heart of Metropolitan Hill
35 E 85th St, known as Westminster House, stands as a distinguished presence in the Metropolitan Hill neighborhood of New York City's Upper East Side. Completed in 1959, this 16-story post-war cooperative building houses 154 residences, offering a blend of classic charm and modern convenience. Situated just one block from Central Park and Museum Mile, Westminster House provides residents with an enviable location that balances urban energy with neighborhood tranquility. The building's red brick exterior presents a functional design that reflects its mid-century origins, while its interior spaces have been thoughtfully updated over the years to meet contemporary living standards.
Versatile layouts for discerning residents
Westminster House offers a range of apartment configurations to suit various lifestyles, from cozy studios to expansive four-bedroom homes. The building's units span from 800 to 2,400 square feet, with prices reflecting the premium location and quality of finishes.
Studio apartments, starting at around 800 square feet, provide efficient living spaces with clever storage solutions and updated kitchens. These units, ideal for singles or as pied-à-terres, are priced competitively for the area.
One-bedroom units, ranging from 800 to 854 square feet, offer more generous living areas and typically include one bathroom. These apartments, priced around $1,770,000, often feature large windows that flood the spaces with natural light.
Two-bedroom residences, spanning 1,285 to 1,476 square feet, provide ample space for families or those desiring extra room. With up to two bathrooms, these units are available from $824,000 to $1,475,000. Many two-bedroom apartments boast dining areas large enough to seat six, perfect for entertaining.
The most spacious offerings are the three-bedroom units, measuring between 2,392 and 2,400 square feet. These expansive homes, priced around $2,200,000, can include up to three bathrooms and often feature wraparound terraces with stunning city views.
Throughout the building, residents enjoy hardwood floors, often in Brazilian Cherry, and large closets for ample storage. Many units have been thoughtfully renovated to include modern amenities such as updated kitchens with high-end appliances, marble countertops, and custom cabinetry. Bathrooms in renovated units often feature elegant fixtures and finishes, including glass-enclosed showers and soaking tubs.
Select apartments offer unique features such as wood-burning fireplaces, private terraces, or home offices. Some units have been combined to create even larger living spaces, accommodating grand entertaining areas and multiple bedrooms.
The building's corner units are particularly coveted for their abundant natural light and panoramic views, which can include Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the iconic New York City skyline. Many apartments have been fitted with new, energy-efficient windows that not only enhance the views but also provide excellent sound insulation from the bustling city below.
Elevated living with curated amenities
Westminster House offers a suite of amenities designed to enhance the living experience of its residents. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the rooftop terrace, which provides breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and Central Park. This shared space is perfect for relaxation, socializing, or enjoying a quiet moment above the city.
The building's recently renovated landscaped courtyard serves as a tranquil oasis, offering a serene outdoor space within the confines of the property. This area provides a pleasant contrast to the urban environment and serves as a gathering spot for residents.
For those who prefer two-wheeled transportation, a secure bike storage facility is available, catering to the needs of cycling enthusiasts. The on-site laundry room offers convenience for residents, although many units have been updated to include in-unit washer and dryer hookups.
A significant amenity is the parking garage with direct building access, a rarity in Manhattan that adds considerable value and convenience for car owners. The garage is operated independently but offers preferential rates for building residents.
Security and service are paramount at Westminster House. A 24-hour doorman and concierge are on hand to assist residents, accept packages, and ensure the safety of the building. The presence of a live-in superintendent, along with a handyman and porter, ensures that maintenance issues are addressed promptly and the building is kept in impeccable condition.
The building is pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions up to 55 pounds, which adds to its appeal for animal lovers. Additionally, Westminster House permits pied-à-terre ownership, making it an attractive option for those seeking a part-time residence in the city.
While not as extensive as some newer luxury buildings, the amenities at Westminster House are thoughtfully curated to provide comfort and convenience without excessive frills, reflecting the understated elegance of its Upper East Side location.
A cultural haven in the Upper East Side
Westminster House is situated in the heart of Metropolitan Hill, a quintessential slice of the Upper East Side that embodies the neighborhood's reputation for refined living and cultural richness. This area, spanning from 77th to 86th Streets and from Central Park to Third Avenue, offers residents an unparalleled urban experience.
The building's location, just one block from Central Park, provides easy access to 843 acres of green space. Residents can enjoy a morning jog around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, picnic on the Great Lawn, or explore the winding trails of The Ramble. The nearby Ancient Playground, inspired by the Egyptian Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a unique play space for children.
Culture abounds in this neighborhood, with Museum Mile anchoring the western edge. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, housing over 2 million works, is a short walk away. Art enthusiasts can also easily visit the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, known for its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building and rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
The area's dining scene caters to discerning palates with a mix of long-standing neighborhood institutions and contemporary eateries. JG Melon, a cash-only pub famous for its burgers, and Pastrami Queen, a beloved Jewish deli, offer tastes of classic New York. For those seeking upscale dining, nearby restaurants like Sant Ambroeus and Sistina provide elegant Italian cuisine in sophisticated settings.
Shopping options abound, with Madison Avenue's luxury boutiques just steps away. The stretch features high-end retailers and designer stores, offering a premium shopping experience. For everyday needs, residents have access to gourmet markets like Butterfield Market, Whole Foods, and Fairway, ensuring a mix of specialty items and staple groceries.
The neighborhood maintains a distinctly residential feel despite its central location. Tree-lined side streets showcase a variety of architectural styles, from ornate Beaux-Arts mansions to sleek modernist towers. This architectural diversity contributes to the area's unique character and charm.
Education is a priority in the neighborhood, with several highly-rated public and private schools nearby. P.S. 6 Lillie D. Blake, an A-rated public elementary school, is within walking distance. The area is also home to some of the city's most prestigious private institutions, including the all-girls Spence School and the co-educational Dalton School in neighboring Carnegie Hill.
The combination of cultural institutions, green spaces, fine dining, high-end shopping, and excellent schools makes the neighborhood surrounding Westminster House a highly desirable location for those seeking the quintessential Upper East Side lifestyle.
Seamless connectivity in a walker's paradise
Westminster House benefits from its strategic location in one of New York City's most accessible neighborhoods. The area's excellent transportation options ensure that residents can easily navigate the city and beyond.
The building's proximity to multiple subway lines is a significant advantage. The 86th Street station, served by the 4, 5, and 6 trains, is just a five-minute walk away. This express stop provides quick access to Midtown, the Financial District, and other parts of Manhattan. For those heading to the West Side, the 86th Street station for the A, B, and C lines is within a 15-minute walk.
Lexington Avenue, a major north-south thoroughfare, is home to several bus routes that complement the subway system. These buses offer convenient cross-town travel and connections to other parts of the city not directly served by the subway.
For those traveling outside of Manhattan, the building's location provides relatively easy access to major airports. LaGuardia Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive, while both John F. Kennedy International and Newark Liberty International airports can be reached in about 30 minutes, traffic permitting.
The neighborhood's high walkability is one of its greatest assets. Many daily errands and activities can be accomplished on foot, with numerous shops, restaurants, and services within easy walking distance. This pedestrian-friendly environment encourages an active, urban lifestyle.
While not as prevalent as in some other parts of the city, cycling is a viable option for residents. The proximity to Central Park provides access to car-free cycling paths, and there are several Citi Bike stations in the vicinity for those who prefer not to own a bicycle.
For car owners, the building's on-site parking garage is a valuable amenity in a neighborhood where street parking can be challenging. Additionally, the nearby FDR Drive provides quick access to other parts of Manhattan and connections to bridges and tunnels for leaving the city.
The combination of multiple transportation options and the neighborhood's inherent walkability makes Westminster House an ideal base for those who value ease of movement in the city, whether for work, leisure, or cultural pursuits.
Collateral AnalyticsCollateral Analytics
Collateral Analytics AVMs (Automated Valuation Model) employ a number of statistical approaches combined with neighborhood-specific comparable selection guarantees the most up-to-date and precise valuations.
Black Knight®Black Knight
Black Knight’s AVM (Automated Valuation Model) is a state-of-the-art online residential property valuation tool that provides a quick and accurate estimate of the value of almost any home in the U.S.
First AmericanFirst American
First American Data & Analytics’ next-generation AVM combines unrivaled data assets with a blended ensemble of valuation models to produce highly accurate, reliable valuations you can trust.
Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
2/ 10
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
79/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
99/ 100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score®
100/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Ancient Playground
2 min walk
Central Park
8 min walk
Great Lawn
10 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
Events
Abraham and Joseph Spector Playground
12 min walk
Playground
Park Avenue Malls
12 min walk
Picnic Area
Ruppert Park
12 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Samuel Seabury Playground
13 min walk
Basketball
Playground
Events
East Meadow
2 min drive
Multi-Purpose Field
Marx Brothers Playground
3 min drive
Soccer
Playground
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
