Iconic Upper East Side Townhouse Hits Market for $15 Million
Imagine enjoying breakfast in a place once frequented by Holly Golightly. The Upper East Side townhouse that inspired “Tiffany’s Breakfast,” famously associated with Audrey Hepburn’s character, is now available for $15 million.
Located at 169 East 71st Street, this five-story home has seen a three-year renovation that merges modern luxury with cinematic history.
While the townhouse’s exterior served as a filming location, the interior scenes were, like many others, shot in a Hollywood studio. Still, its recognizable facade and signature Tiffany Blue doors have etched it into New York’s film heritage.
“169 East 71st Street is the original ‘Tiffany’s Breakfast’ home immortalized by Audrey Hepburn,” said Caroline Bass from Corcoran Group, the listing agent. She emphasized that this house is not just a property; it’s a piece of cinema history.
The home itself, with its iconic Tiffany Blue front door, spans a generous 4,465 square feet. It includes a beautifully landscaped garden that measures 30 feet, two recessed terraces, and a south-facing Juliet balcony.
Inside, there are four bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and three powder rooms. The ceilings soar over ten feet high, and exquisite details like herringbone floors and antique mantruls abound.
According to Bass, the owners didn’t merely renovate; they transformed the space. They added a full-size elevator servicing all levels, excavated the basement for a wine cellar, and created a brand new terrace capping it all off.
This historic townhouse has been meticulously renovated while honoring its 19th-century architecture, blending timeless elements with contemporary comforts.
Now configured as a two-family residence, the garden-level unit boasts its own entrance, a den, a bedroom, and an open-concept kitchen complete with high-end stainless steel appliances. French doors lead directly to a 466-square-foot garden, which is beautifully fenced.
The parlour floors showcase impressive period millwork, beamed ceilings, and designer lighting from Porta Romana.
Interestingly, a hidden TV lurks behind an exquisite antique mirror above the fireplace. The chef’s kitchen anchors around a stunning Caracatta Gold Marble island, complemented by top-tier appliances.
The second floor contains two bedrooms, each linked to beautifully appointed marble bathrooms. The primary suite, a luxurious oasis across four levels, features its own dressing area, fireplace, and private terrace. The ensuite bathroom is an elegant retreat in its own right, featuring marble finishes and a soaking tub.
The fifth floor offers a versatile space with access to a wet bar and a small terrace. Below ground, the basement—boasting an eight-foot ceiling—includes a dedicated wine cellar and extra laundry facilities.
The current owner, Joseph Harkins, is a retired beverage executive who has played a pivotal role in transforming the property. “There’s a great karma in the house,” he shared.
Bass purchased the property back in 2015 for $7.4 million. She noted, “Sure, there are townhouses across the Upper East Side, but this one is truly unique.”
With its three outdoor spaces, elevator, landscaped garden, and ties to American cinema, this represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. As the listing quaintly puts it, “They say you can’t buy history. But at 169 East 71st, you might just be able to.”
