D
r. Scott Keller, a longtime chiropractor and part-time musician, knew he'd found his home the moment he stepped into the whimsical lobby of 215 E. 24th St. in 2007. The quirky studio apartment's Beatles-inspired decor, complete with Tudor timbers and a wrought-iron patio set, evoked a sense of déjà vu.
Keller had spent two years searching for an apartment before stumbling upon Penny Lane, a former ice cream factory turned co-op known for its unique lobby. He purchased the 450-square-foot studio for $330,000 and later discovered that his mom had attended a party there as a teenager.
Now, nearly two decades later, Keller is parting ways with his beloved home, listing it for $425,000. The third-floor studio features floor-to-ceiling windows, a Juliet balcony with city views, hardwood and tile floors, and a ceiling fan. However, the building's character is what sets it apart.
The Tudor-style foyer, designed to mimic a Liverpool streetscape, makes Penny Lane a standout in Manhattan's Kips Bay neighborhood. The lobby was inspired by the Beatles' song "Penny Lane" and features red brick walls, Tudor-style timbers, faux slate roofs, and a black lamppost bearing a "Penny Lane" sign.
The co-op offers 24-hour doorman service, laundry on every floor, on-site parking, and a sprawling roof deck with views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. The building's past as an ice cream factory lends itself to unusually lofty layouts, including duplexes and triplexes with generous proportions.
Keller is selling his home due to relocating to Florida, but he admits it will be difficult to part with the apartment that has been a source of inspiration for his music career. Listing agent Giulia Prestia notes that buildings like Penny Lane are increasingly rare in New York City's market, which prioritizes sleek, modern design.
"To find something at that price point in New York City is really quite rare," Prestia said. "It's a great step up for someone who might be living with roommates and wants to make a move to owning."
