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Manhattan’s Famed Halston House Sells for $18 Million

Fashion designer Tom Ford bought the Upper East Side townhouse, one of architect Paul Rudolph’s most iconic works, for $18 million in 2019

By Haley Chouinard
Modern loft interior with abstract art, floating staircase, dining area, and seating, showcasing contemporary design elements.
The Halston House on East 63rd Street just sold for $18 million. Photo: Nikolas Koenig/Otto

A New York townhouse designed by famed midcentury architect Paul Rudolph recently sold for $18 million.

The architecturally significant home, which is one of just three properties in Manhattan that Rudolph designed, is culturally important as well. The estate was once owned by legendary fashion designer Halston and has been host to many glamorous parties attended by the likes of Andy Warhol, Bianca Jagger, and Liza Minnelli, who was known to stay in the upstairs guest suite.

Architect Steven Harris, who recently revamped another Rudolph property downtown, studied the legendary talent prior to the project. Of Halston House’s striking floating staircases, Harris tells Galerie: “In most cases, you entered rooms slightly above where you ended up. It let you make an entrance—his architecture is all about performance.”

Recommended: Paul Rudolph’s Legacy Lives on Through His Outstanding Buildings

The property was originally listed in 2015 for $40 million, and its price was cut considerably during its four years on the market. Located on the Upper East Side, the 7,500-square-foot house has four bedrooms, five bathrooms, an elevator, garage, roof terrace and, in the backyard, a greenhouse. The exterior of the house is made of corduroy concrete, a hallmark of Brutalism, a style that Rudolph was known for using in much of his work.

The new owner is reportedly fashion designer Tom Ford, and the house was previously listed with Howard Morrel and Leslie Hirsch at Engel & Volkers.

White Maserati parked in front of modern glass garage with brick exterior and tree branches above.
Located at 101 East 63rd Street, the house is just one of three properties designed by Paul Rudolph. Engel & Völkers

Spacious modern living room with high ceilings, large windows, white walls, and minimalistic furniture, overlooking a bamboo garden.
The living room has 32-foot ceilings and a skylight. Engel & Völkers

Modern minimalist living room with open staircase, wooden floors, large windows, and sleek furniture.
The sunken living room is flooded with natural light from the skylight above. Engel & Völkers

Modern living room with high ceilings, wooden floors, a white sofa, minimalist staircase, and large coffee table.
An additional view of the stunning sunken living room. Engel & Völkers

Minimalist interior with white walls, glass railings, and natural light streaming through a large window, creating a modern look.
The clean lines of the architecture are a hallmark of Rudolph’s midcentury style. Engel & Völkers

Minimalist bedroom with wooden floor, white walls, simple bed, two lamps, and large window showing urban view.
A bedroom opens out onto a balcony. Engel & Völkers

Minimalistic bedroom with a white bed, large window, and natural light streaming onto the carpeted floor.
A bedroom on the third level has a balcony overlooking the living room below. Engel & Völkers

Modern interior staircase with sleek black metal railings, carpeted steps, and surrounding art on white walls.
The house is known as Halston House, after its famous former owner. Engel & Völkers

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and slate flooring, leading to a dining area with natural light.
The house was recently revamped by architect Steven Harris. Engel & Völkers

Modern bedroom with wooden furniture, large windows, and neutral decor. Room features a bed, nightstands, and a dresser.
One of the house’s four bedrooms. Engel & Völkers