188 E 78Th St

The Empire Condominium is a full-service luxury residential building on the Upper East Side completed in 2000. Rising 32 stories with just 38 three-bedroom units (and larger multi-bedroom layouts in many listings), it reads as an upscale condominium with generous, loft-like residences rather than a high-density tower. Architecture and finishes lean toward a restrained prewar-inspired elegance—double-height main lobby, marble details and wide foyers—paired with modern systems and large casement windows that bring abundant light. Interiors typically feature formal entry galleries, oversized living and dining rooms, eat-in chef’s kitchens with premium appliances, multiple marble baths, abundant custom closets and in-unit washers/dryers. Ceiling heights are high and many homes include Juliet balconies or private terraces; select plans offer multiple exposures and sweeping city and park views. Building common areas were recently renovated and include a windowed fitness center, screening room, business/conference facilities, playroom, lounge with catering kitchen, and landscaped multi-level courtyard and roof deck. Service and conveniences are a defining trait: 24-hour doorman, concierge, live-in resident manager, on-site garage (separate fee), private storage options and bicycle storage. The building is pet-friendly, allows pied-à-terres and investors, and permits high financing. Its location places residents within a few blocks of Central Park, museums, restaurants and multiple subway lines—an urban, Upper East Side lifestyle centered on full-service comfort and proximity to cultural and neighborhood amenities.