Keyed In: Inside the Timeless Enclave of Gramercy Park
Keyed In: Inside the Timeless Enclave of Gramercy Park
Gramercy Park, with its exclusive keyed entry and idyllic green space, has long been a haven for New York City's elite - and a bit of a mystery to outsiders. From Teddy Roosevelt to Thomas Edison, John Steinbeck and Karl Lagerfield, the neighborhood has been foundational in the history of New York and perpetually attracted pioneers, visionaries and glamorous figures with discerning taste. So what is it really like to live here? We sat down with The Agency’s top-performing NYC real estate agent and Gramercy resident Mike Fabbri to get an insider's perspective on why the likes of Lauren Santo Domingo, Cara Delevingne, Julia Roberts, Jimmy Fallon, and Uma Thurman continue to call Gramercy Park home.
What are the major selling points of Gramercy Park?
Gramercy Park's defining feature is, of course, its exclusive, two-acre gated park, accessible only to residents and property owners. The beautifully maintained space fosters a sense of tranquility and community akin to a private club. Crucially, the neighborhood is centrally located with multiple subway lines and easy access uptown and downtown. Arguably some of the best dining options in Manhattan are located here. For real estate enthusiasts, the unique blend of historic buildings and modern condominiums, many designed to fit the context of the neighborhood’s eclectic blend of architectural styles, is an Instagrammable sight to see.
What does it really mean to have a KEY to the park?
A key to Gramercy Park signifies more than just access; it's an invitation to partake in the park's rich history. Since the gates were first locked in 1844, access has been exclusive to residents of the approximately 39 surrounding buildings. Each residence is entitled to a maximum of two keys, each costing around $350 and requiring a hefty replacement fee if lost. To maintain security, the Gramercy Park Trust changes the locks annually. With access comes responsibility: strict rules prohibit activities like drinking, smoking, feeding animals, playing sports, and dog walking, and photography is forbidden. For many, exclusivity and strict regulations contribute to the allure.
What are some of the best tried and true restaurants?
Gramercy has a dynamic dining scene that’s always evolving but the institutions remain. For a taste of history the sometimes-touristy Pete's Tavern is beloved by locals too. It has stood the test of time and my parents actually had their first date there in the 70s! Friend of a Farmer offers a farm-to-table experience, while Casa Mono specializes in excellent Spanish cuisine. Union Square Cafe and Gramercy Tavern are classics. L'Express is a traditional French bistro, perfect for late-night dining. There is no shortage of incredible restaurants.
Is it a pet-friendly neighborhood?
Very. You’ll start recognizing dogs before you recognize their owners. The neighborhood is full of pet-friendly buildings, and while your dog won’t be getting into Gramercy Park itself (rules are rules), there are plenty of other places to roam. Madison Square Park and Stuyvesant Square Park are nearby, and there are cafés like Hutch & Waldo, where your pup can sip on a puppuccino while you contemplate how you got to a point in life where you’re buying your dog beverages.
What are some of the best-hidden gems of Gramercy that only locals would know?
Probably the best ‘hidden gem’ in Gramercy Park is The National Arts Club formerly the Tilden Mansion, originally commissioned by Samuel Tilden, the 25th Governor of New York. It was designed by Calvert Vaux, a prolific architect and world-famous designer of Central Park. Located at 15 Gramercy Park South, this non-profit has been a haven for artists and creatives since the late 1800s! If those walls could talk... It's a beautiful and inspiring space that many visitors (and even some residents) might not know about.
How is the real estate market in Gramercy?
Gramercy Park's real estate market is always strong because it is considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the world by both international buyers and New Yorkers. Like a Van Gogh, properties here are collectible, particularly you can only access the storied ‘Gramercy Park’ as a resident. The market here will only continue to appreciate, especially with the anticipated completion of renovations at the former Gramercy Park Hotel. But fair warning: properties don’t come to market often, and when they do, they don’t last long.
What made you move to Gramercy and what do you love most about your home there?
We actually found our amazing apartment immediately after signing a lease for another home! After seeing it, we knew it had to be ours and walked away from the initial lease. It was such a rare find in a gorgeous pre-war building that once served as a school. The craftsmanship and architectural details, particularly the woodwork, are simply one-of-a-kind. The home is in its glory during the holidays with a 12-foot tree. The interiors (designed by my partner Scott Francis) evoke the classic elegance of the Ralph Lauren flagship on 72nd and Madison, combining cozy comfort with perfectly proportioned rooms. Despite how much we love the space, the ultimate highlight of living here is undoubtedly stepping outside into our own private park.
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