988 Fifth Avenue Upper East Side Apartment For Sale

Irreplaceable Duplex Penthouse in Boutique J.E.R. Carpenter-Designed Condominium Fifth Avenue & 80th Street

Perched atop a landmark Italian Renaissance-style prewar condominium designed by J.E.R. Carpenter and built in 1926, this one-of-a-kind duplex penthouse occupies an iconic location at Fifth Avenue and 80th Street-directly across from the Metropolitan Museum of Art-with sweeping, protected views of Central Park.

Set within a discreet white-glove boutique condominium of just 14 full-floor residences, each accessed via private elevator landing, the building is the most established among the few prewar condominiums on Fifth Avenue. Once home to the legendary Grace Kelly, it carries a legacy of timeless elegance and cultural distinction. The penthouse offers a rare chance to own a truly irreplaceable trophy property-one with panoramic views that can never be obstructed. Exceptional seclusion and security provide total privacy, both within the residence and the building itself.

Spanning two full floors, the home features over 3,000 square feet of park-facing outdoor space, seamlessly integrated with both Central Park and the interior living areas. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame unobstructed views of the park and skyline, offering breathtaking sunsets and a magnificent setting for entertaining.

The main level offers a gracious layout with a corner living room, formal dining room, chef's kitchen, and two bedroom suites. The primary suite includes a spa-style bath with Jacuzzi tub, private hammam, and a custom mahogany and cashmere-upholstered dressing room. The second bedroom is a private guest suite with direct terrace access and an en-suite bath featuring a skylight that infuses the space with natural light. A wraparound terrace completes the floor, accommodating outdoor dining for over twenty guests along with lounging and entertaining areas.

The upper level includes a third bedroom-currently configured as a guest suite-alongside a fully equipped gym with sauna and private hammam. This level opens to a spectacular wraparound terrace with multiple dining and lounging zones, an outdoor bar, a covered pergola, and a self-sustaining seasonal herb garden. Three private outdoor showers serve the primary suite, gym, and upper guest suite, respectively.

Dedicated mechanical rooms house independent water pumps and a museum-quality central air conditioning system, ensuring year-round comfort and efficiency throughout the penthouse.

Additional highlights include:

- Two private hammams (primary suite and upper guest suite)

- Impeccably landscaped terraces with automated irrigation and centrally controlled lighting

- A refined, quiet setting in one of the Upper East Side's most intimate and prestigious condominiums

The building has recently completed modernization of both passenger and service elevators and a full LL11 facade restoration.

This Fifth Avenue penthouse is a singular opportunity-an extraordinary residence of architectural pedigree, enduring quality, and unmatched privacy. With exceptional outdoor space, landmark views, and the rare flexibility of prewar condominium living, it stands among New York City's most coveted homes.