Barbra Streisand’s Former Upper East Side Townhouse Hits Market for $18 Million
The iconic Upper East Side townhouse once owned by EGOT winner Barbra Streisand is now on the market for a staggering $18 million. This five-storey residence, designed by the renowned architect Harry Allan Jacobs in the 1930s, maintains much of its original charm and design features, making it a rare gem in the city’s real estate market.
Streisand purchased the 854-square-metre home in 1970 for $420,000, a sum that equates to about $1.3 million when adjusted for inflation, according to Architectural Digest. Despite initially being reluctant to move into a house after facing rejection from two co-op buildings, Streisand decided to proceed with the purchase. She expressed her reservations to the New York Times, stating, “I’ve never wanted to live in a house. But I’m going ahead with it anyway.” Streisand preferred a more horizontally expansive space over the five-level, 17-room vertical layout.
The eight-bedroom, eight-bathroom property, adorned with Jazz Age finishes, was sold by Streisand in 1972, as reported by Mansion Global. Despite her initial hesitation, the townhouse offers practical features such as a basement level and an elevator that connects all five stories.
One of the standout features of the residence is the original winding staircase, complete with an intricate metal railing. Listing photos reveal that the home’s decor pays homage to its 1930s origins, particularly in the formal living and dining rooms. These areas are furnished with period-appropriate art, antique furniture, original wood-burning fireplaces, and opulent light fixtures, all contributing to the residence’s historical ambiance.
The property is currently listed by Cathy Franklin of Corcoran, attracting significant attention from potential buyers and real estate enthusiasts alike.
