520 E 86Th St

A distinguished 15-story prewar cooperative on the Upper East Side, completed in 1927 and originally designed by noted architects of the period. The boutique building contains just 17 large, three-bedroom residences arranged around semi-private elevator landings that emphasize discreet circulation. Architectural character is strongly prewar: high beamed ceilings, original herringbone oak floors, leaded-glass French doors, wood-burning fireplaces, and generous mouldings and built-ins are common. Apartment layouts favor formal entertaining with defined living rooms, separate formal dining rooms, eat-in kitchens and service/maid rooms often repurposed as offices or dens; many units include sun-filled loggias or balconied exposures over townhouse gardens. Shared spaces reflect the building’s full-service profile: a staffed lobby with resident manager, an exercise room, bike room, common laundry, and cellar storage bins for each apartment. Outdoors, a private landscaped garden and courtyard (occasionally bookable for events) provide a quiet amenity and views toward tree-lined streets and nearby Carl Schurz Park. Operations are white-glove and well kept, with on-site maintenance and a small, engaged staff; pet-friendly policies and conservative co-op financing practices are typical. Parking is not a prominent on-site feature; the site benefits from immediate access to local transit, neighborhood schools, restaurants and waterfront open space.