Debra Messing's NYC Apartment Lists for $6.5 Million
Emmy Award-winning actress Debra Messing is offering her exquisite Manhattan apartment for sale on the Upper East Side. This upscale residence, initially acquired by Messing for $5.5 million in 2014, is now listed at nearly $6.5 million. The property has undergone two significant renovations, reflecting Messing's refined taste and her dedication to creating a sophisticated living space. As her son embarks on independent living, Messing has chosen to downsize, making this meticulously designed home available to a new owner.
Situated in a historic building dating back to the 1920s, the apartment was originally conceived by renowned architects Raymond Hood and John Mead Howells, celebrated for their work on Rockefeller Center. The spacious eighth-floor unit boasts approximately 3,100 square feet, comprising four, and potentially five, bedrooms, along with four full bathrooms. Its prime location in Manhattan's coveted Upper East Side positions it within an exclusive boutique complex, offering residents both luxury and privacy.
Messing, celebrated for her roles as Grace Adler in "Will & Grace" and Laura Diamond in "The Mysteries of Laura," initially commissioned Lee Stahl of TRH New York to transform the interior. The design vision centered on a serene palette of white, cream, and soft gray, punctuated by vibrant splashes of color. Distinctive features include rich chocolate-colored hardwood floors, stately high coffered ceilings, and intricate crown molding and millwork, all contributing to an atmosphere of understated elegance.
A notable incident in 2017, when a fire in an adjacent building necessitated further renovations, allowed Messing to once again enlist Stahl's expertise. The resulting updates further enhanced the apartment's appeal and functionality. The living space is defined by an entrance gallery that ushers guests into a grand living area, complete with a white brick wood-burning fireplace and French doors that open onto Juliet balconies. An elegant dining room, adorned with a striking black sunburst chandelier, also offers access to a Juliet balcony, perfect for enjoying the city views.
Beyond the main living areas, the apartment features a crimson-hued library with a full bathroom, presenting the flexibility to serve as a fifth bedroom. The eat-in kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with custom cabinetry, Carrara marble countertops, and a unique built-in pet-feeding station. The private wing houses the bedrooms, including a pair of guest rooms that share a convenient Jack-and-Jill bathroom and a compact staff suite. The expansive corner primary suite is a sanctuary of comfort, boasting a windowed dressing room and a lavish beige-tiled bathroom. This spa-like retreat includes radiant-heated floors, a three-paneled mirror, a smart toilet, and a soaking tub nestled amidst river rocks, creating a serene oasis.
The listing, managed by Cathy Franklin of The Corcoran Group, outlines a 2 percent flip tax payable by the purchaser, with up to 50 percent financing permitted by the building. A monthly homeowners' association fee of $10,040 covers amenities such as a doorman, a resident manager, and private storage, with an additional monthly assessment of $2,092 through December 2026. Despite selling a substantial estate in Bel Air, Los Angeles, for $11.4 million in 2014, Messing, a Brooklyn native, has expressed her intention to remain in New York, affirming her deep connection to the city she calls home.
This meticulously renovated apartment presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Manhattan's architectural heritage, infused with celebrity charm and modern luxury. The careful attention to detail in its design and its prime Upper East Side location make it an exceptional offering in the current real estate market. The blend of classic architecture with contemporary interior finishes provides a sophisticated and comfortable urban living experience, perfect for those seeking elegance and convenience in New York City.
