Neil Patrick Harris

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The multitalented entertainer Neil Patrick Harris, most notably recognized for his role in “How I Met Your Mother,” along with his husband, actor and professional chef David Burtka, own multiple properties together. One of their most notable is a brownstone townhouse in the Harlem neighborhood on New York City they purchased for $3.6 million in 2013. The celebrity duo spent 14 months converting the space into. Harris and Burtka worked with Los Angeles based interior designer Trace Lehnhoff and New York architect Jeffery Povero to convert the former bed and breakfast into an expansive single-family residence. However, Harris and his family are now bidding farewell to Harlem after purchasing a $5.5 million home in East Hampton. Their Harlem residence is listed for $7,325,000 and Vickey Barron as well as Pacey Barron of Compass hold the listing for this property.

Built in 1910, the Brownstone townhome spans 8,000 square feet with six stories, four plus bedrooms, and six baths. The 20-foot-wide structure once served as a speakeasy for millworkers, a music school for girls, and a bed-and-breakfast. Entering the lavish home, the interior opens to sweeping 20 foot ceilings and original dark wood wainscoting. The vintage bar is sourced from an old hotel and has been with updated with new fixtures including two built-in taps. Additionally, the spacious butler’s pantry offers the perfect necessities for entertaining. Leading up the restored wooden staircase, the space presents a sunlight living and dining area that overlooks Fifth Avenue. This floor also includes a spectacular kitchen equipped with custom cabinetry, an island with farmhouse sink, two Wolf ranges, a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, a beverage refrigerator, wine refrigerator, and pantry.

On third floor rests the extravagant master suite. The lavish bedroom features a fireplace, custom walk-in-closet, and a bathroom with Nero Marquina marble. This floor also offers an intimate library and den space. Upstairs, on the top floor, presents three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Another charming highlight of this level is an office hidden behind a secret door which opens with the press of a magician’s eyeball on a vintage poster. Harris, an acclaimed magic enthusiast, decorated the space with original art from the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland and various other magical props.

The two remaining stories are semisubterranean with the garden level currently used as a production office and a 10-seat home theater. Underneath, the basement features an indoor gym, wine cellar, and additional storage space. Stepping outside, the exterior offers 2,000 square feet of space with a 500-square-foot terraced garden, a third-floor deck, a roof deck with pergola, an outdoor hot tub, built-in barbecue grill, and a dining table for eight.

The post Beguiling Brownstone: Neil Patrick Harris Lists Harlem Home For $7.3 Million appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

How has the luxury real estate market been performing in Sarasota so far in 2020?

The luxury real estate market in Sarasota County for single-family homes and condos priced at $3 million or above is ahead of 2019 in units sold. Single-family homes are up more than 25% and condos are up 50%. However, 2019 hit the higher price mark for both single-family homes and condos at $9,850,000 and $5,500,000 respectively compared to $4,925,000 and $4,250,000 this year. Sales are strong based not only on Sarasota being an amazing destination market, but also baby boomer migration and movement from high tax states. Also, Siesta Key Beach was ranked #1 in the nation for the second time and #11 in the world. Just another accolade for Sarasota.

What are buyers looking for in their homes in Sarasota in 2020?

Functional space and quality! Buyers are focused on functional space vs. size. Gone are the days of bigger is better and now it is about well-designed floorplans with minimal wasted space. Quality has always been important but now with the focus on functionality and less space, it is even more critical. Buyers are willing to pay for quality!

Photo Credit: Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Which has been the highlight sale for you so far in 2020?

We closed on an amazing home on the bayfront in Sarasota in late January. The property at 7350 Captain Kidd was completed in 2016 and offers incredible panoramic views of the open water. Reiterating the focus on functionality and quality, this home is a testament to the new trend towards the Great Room and open kitchen concept! Quality is apparent with every finish selection throughout the home.

New restaurants or other hot spots?

Drinks on the rooftop of the Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota is a great way to enjoy a sunset. If you stay into the evening the same venue turns into one of Sarasota’s hottest night clubs. If you want something a little more low-key then wander over to O Leary’s Tiki Bay for a little live music and the opportunity to dip your toes in the bay. They are even dog-friendly.

Spring Break fun activity?

Spring Break is upon us! First and foremost, it has to be the beach for fun. Siesta Key Beach is ranked #1 in the nation for the second time in 2020.   If the white powdery sand and stunning sunsets are not enough, how about a pickup beach volleyball game on one of many sand courts. There is also the Drum Circle on Sunday nights on Siesta Key – watch people gather and dance to the beat of the drums. If you want a little more adventure, try the guided kayak tours on Lido Key. These tours will lead you into majestic mangrove tunnels in search of wildlife and the relaxing sounds of nature. Always a crowd pleaser and fun for all ages.

Photo Credit: Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

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