A rare opportunity to buy a piece of New York City history on a charming, tree-lined street in Gramercy has popped for sale on Street Easy. Known as “The Little House” on 78 Irving, this mid-1800s single-family carriage house has been home to prominent families and businesses over the centuries. Situated just south of Gramercy Park, the 2,423 square-foot residence is one of only three renovated carriage houses on the historic “block beautiful.” While this is a standalone townhouse (with all the associated independence and privacy) it also offers the perk of white-glove service with a full-time doorman and resident manager. The best of both worlds.
A carriage house in New York City is a type of historic building originally designed in the 19th and early 20th centuries to store horse-drawn carriages and house horses. These structures were typically located behind or adjacent to larger homes of wealthy families and often included living quarters for stable hands or coachmen on the upper floors. Today, most carriage houses have been converted into private residences, and they are highly sought after due to their unique architectural features, charm, and historical significance. These buildings tend to be smaller than typical townhouses and have distinctive design elements like arched doorways (where carriages used to enter), high ceilings, and exposed brick.
The original structure of this house was designed with Flemish influences, but internally it has been completely renovated with all the modern amenities, so it’s a turnkey property. Despite its miniature size and cute proportions, the house has three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and a versatile bonus room. Entering through a private door, skylights in both the foyer and adjacent kitchen ensure plenty of natural light. The kitchen, equipped with high-end appliances, is framed by dramatic 20-foot vaulted ceilings (typical of this kind of house) and opens into a living room with a functioning fireplace. The solid oak chevron floors and exposed brick details are particularly lovely design features.
The large main bedroom features a custom Poliform walk-in dressing room and an ensuite bathroom with heated marble floors, dual sinks, a standalone steam shower, and a separate soaking tub. The second bedroom overlooks the beautiful street through a bay window.
