I
n the heart of Manhattan, a rare gem has emerged: a meticulously restored Georgian townhouse at 241 E. 48th St., nestled within the exclusive Turtle Bay Gardens enclave. This coveted address offers not only a stunning five-story residence but also access to a lush, private communal garden – a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

    Priced at $11.5 million, this 5,500-square-foot masterpiece boasts a recent Landmarks-approved renovation, modern luxuries like a smart home system and elevator access, and turn-of-the-century charm preserved throughout its five floors. The property's pièce de résistance is its connection to the historic Turtle Bay Gardens, where luminaries such as Katharine Hepburn, Stephen Sondheim, and E.B. White once called home.

    The townhouse itself is a showstopper, featuring a chef's kitchen with a waterfall island, a sun-drenched great room with 20-foot ceilings, and a gas fireplace. The parlor level offers a formal living room with a Juliet balcony and built-in library, while the upper floors house a full-floor primary suite with a spa-like bathroom, two ensuite bedrooms, and a loft-style suite with a terrace overlooking the garden.

    Turtle Bay Gardens has long been a magnet for creatives, with its central garden filled with towering trees and pleasing shrubs. The enclave's history dates back to 1920, when Charlotte Hunnewell Sorchan transformed the area into a cohesive community by acquiring adjacent lots and enlisting architects to strip away original facades and replace them with elegant stucco.

    The property is represented by Nikki Field and Matt Perceval of Sotheby's International Realty, who note that it's offered well below replacement value – estimated to save the new owner over $2 million in renovation costs. This turnkey masterpiece is a rare opportunity for those seeking a unique blend of history, luxury, and seclusion in one of Manhattan's most coveted neighborhoods.

    As a testament to its creative legacy, Turtle Bay Gardens has been home to some of the world's most iconic figures, including Bob Dylan, who lived next door at 242 E. 49th St. for two decades. The property, which also enjoys garden access, listed for $7.25 million in December 2024 and entered into contract in February.