This historic Greenwich Village townhouse, once owned by music icon David Byrne, blends old-world elegance with artistic innovation.
From its enchanting cedar treehouse to its Parisian-style atelier, this five-story residence is filled with one-of-a-kind features that make it a true creative sanctuary.
A True Artist’s Haven
This pre-Civil War townhouse later became home to renowned artist Melinda Hackett, continuing its legacy of creativity.
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village’s Gold Coast, the five-story residence exudes artistic energy, with its grand interiors, high ceilings, and elegant historic detailing.
A Treehouse Like No Other
Unlike typical “treehouse-inspired” decor, this home boasts an actual cedar treehouse, nestled within a towering 90-foot London Plane tree.
Commissioned by artist Melinda Hackett for her daughters, the round cedar retreat was built 10 feet above the ground, creating an enchanting escape in the heart of Manhattan.
After years of legal battles, the structure remains a cherished and officially approved feature of the home, offering a unique space for meditation, relaxation, or playful adventure.
A Historic Gem with Modern Comforts
Originally built in 1854 in the Anglo-Italianate style, the townhouse retains much of its original character while integrating modern amenities.
Five wood-burning fireplaces, central air conditioning, and an elevator blend 19th-century elegance with contemporary convenience.
Thoughtful renovations preserve the historic charm while enhancing the home’s livability, making it a perfect blend of old-world grandeur and modern luxury.
Parisian Style Atelier with Skylit Views
A rare find in a historic townhouse, the fourth floor houses an 18-foot-tall artist’s atelier, bathed in natural light from a massive skylight.
The dramatic space features a working fireplace, treetop views, and elegant double-sash windows that frame the historic Greenwich Village landscape.
This sunlit sanctuary is ideal for an artist’s studio, a reading retreat, or a stunning additional bedroom.
Grand Parlor Floor with 14-Foot Ceilings
The home’s parlor floor impresses with its soaring 14-foot ceilings, original mahogany banister, and intricately detailed plaster crown moldings.
Two working fireplaces with ornate marble mantels add historic charm, while French doors lead to elegant wrought iron planting balconies overlooking the picturesque street.
The seamless flow between the formal living and dining areas, open kitchen, and media room makes this level perfect for both entertaining and everyday living.
Private Cedar Roof Deck with Skyline Views
Atop the home, a sprawling cedar roof deck provides an oasis above the city, complete with built-in seating, water, and electricity.
Offering open views of treetops and historic buildings, this outdoor retreat is a rarity in Manhattan.
Whether used for alfresco dining, stargazing, or peaceful solitude, this rooftop sanctuary is the pinnacle of city living.
Multi-Functional English Basement Suite
Beyond its grand entertaining spaces, the home offers a fully equipped lower-level studio/guest suite with beamed ceilings, a full kitchen, and a private entrance.
French doors open onto a charming bluestone patio, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living.
Ideal for guests, live-in staff, or a separate creative workspace, this suite adds both practicality and privacy.
Sun Filled South Facing Artist Studio
A sun-drenched artist studio on the garden floor overlooks the home’s private landscaped garden, providing a serene workspace.
Its large casement window floods the room with light, making it an inspiring environment for painting, sculpting, or quiet reflection.
With its own kitchenette and powder room, this space is equally suited for use as a home office, library, or additional bedroom.
Photos of the Home
The shaded bluestone patio, surrounded by lush foliage, offers a peaceful spot for outdoor dining or relaxation in the private garden.
This expansive wooden deck provides ample space for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet moments amidst the greenery of the surrounding trees.
Elegant Interiors
A whimsically decorated treehouse interior features vibrant cushions and a circular ceiling, creating a cozy retreat overlooking the garden.
An ornate wooden staircase with intricate railings winds upward against distressed plaster walls, blending historical charm with timeless craftsmanship in the grand entryway.
Rich crown molding, custom bookshelves, a decorative fireplace, and plush seating create a sophisticated yet inviting living space filled with character and charm.
Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves with a rolling ladder, expansive windows, and intricate molding frame this elegant reading nook, designed for quiet moments and literary escape.
The striking red accent wall, lofted bed, modern workspace, and floating bubble chair give this room a bold yet functional contemporary design.
A suspended bubble chair, sleek workspace, high ceilings, and vibrant decor make this room an imaginative space for work, relaxation, or play.
An open dining area with rustic wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and striking artwork creates a stylish dining space with a stunning view of the backyard treehouse.
Massive floor-to-ceiling windows frame the enchanting cedar treehouse, seamlessly merging the home’s interior with the lush private garden outside.
Classic wood furnishings, vintage artwork, dark accent walls, and intricate crown molding enhance the formal dining space with timeless architectural charm.
Checkered flooring, wood cabinetry, and an open layout blend functionality with character, creating a welcoming space for cooking, dining, and entertaining.
Deep blue walls contrast beautifully with warm wood flooring, multiple windows, and sleek built-in cabinetry, offering a calming and contemporary retreat.
A dramatic skylight, crisp white walls, and a working fireplace transform this Parisian-style atelier into a bright, airy, and inviting bedroom.
Soft neutral tones, polished wood flooring, a decorative fireplace, and large windows create a relaxing and intimate atmosphere for guests.
A freestanding clawfoot tub, mosaic-tiled walls, and vintage vanity add elegance, while sleek fixtures bring a modern touch to this bathroom.
Exposed wooden beams, minimalist decor, and expansive windows offer a serene environment for workouts with direct access to the lush garden.
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