Designer Halston’s iconic Manhattan townhouse by architect Paul Rudolph sold

Engel & Völkers has successfully brokered the former residence of the US designer Roy Halston in Manhattan for 18 million US dollars (approx. 15.9 million euros). The townhouse is located on the Upper East Side and was designed in 1966 by the world-famous architect Paul Rudolph. The prominent American fashion designer Halston purchased the property in 1974 and turned it into a venue for legendary parties attended by New York’s high society. Stars from the worlds of film, art and music were frequent guests, including Andy Warhol and Liza Minnelli. The Halston House, as it is known, was acquired by the German photographer and art collector Gunter Sachs in 1990. He filled it with portraits of its famous visitors, including a Warhol painting of Brigitte Bardot, his third wife.

Living inside a work of art of Paul Rudolph

The Halston House is one of the very few New York homes to be designed by the renowned architect Paul Rudolph. The façade is made from steel and glass, a strong contrast to its neighbouring brownstone mansions. The design reflects Rudolph’s modernist approach, strongly influenced by the Bauhaus movement. Inside, Rudolph’s skillful use of natural light is evident. The interior space totals some 700 square metres, with three living rooms, four bedrooms, four full and one half bathroom, plus two kitchens. The sunken living room with its triple-height ceiling, a wall of windows and a fireplace forms the centrepiece of the house. From here a floating staircase leads up to the upper floors, where a 148-square-metre outdoor terrace awaits. “Due to its glamourous past and cult status, this house cannot fail to make an impression. With its unique architectural design and luxurious finishes it is a work of art in itself while at the same time offering a realm of exclusivity,” said Stuart Siegel, Managing Director Engel & Völkers Market Center New York.