820 Fifth Avenue

820 Fifth Avenue is a twelve-story residential building at East 63rd Street with symmetrical facades featuring classical moldings, cornices, and decorative details overlooking Central Park. The architectural design emphasizes verticality and ornamental richness on every face of the structure.

The building was completed in 1916 during a major shift in how wealthy New Yorkers chose to live. Its construction coincided with the transformation of Fifth Avenue from a street of private townhouses into a row of prestigious apartment buildings.

The building represents a turning point when Manhattan's elite began choosing apartment living over townhouses, shaping the character of Fifth Avenue. Its refined classical design still signals status and sophisticated urban living to those who pass by.

This is a private residential building with restricted public access, though it can be viewed from the street and sidewalk. Its location on Fifth Avenue provides easy access to Central Park and the many museums and galleries nearby.

The building contains just one apartment per floor, an unusual choice in 1916 that prioritized privacy and spaciousness for its residents. This layout allowed wealthy families to enjoy entire floors dedicated solely to their own use.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1916

Architects: Starrett & van Vleck

Floors above the ground: 12

GPS coordinates: 40.76690,-73.97080

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:47