When it comes to diamonds, Harry Winston wrote the book. During his lifetime the founder of one of the most famous jewelry houses in the world, nicknamed the King of Diamonds, collected and sold some of the world’s largest and most famous diamonds, including the Hope Diamond that he donated to the Smithsonian. His expertise in the glittering gems even earned him a name drop in the lyrics of ‘Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend.’ See: World’s best homes – tour the globe’s most beautiful houses Harry Winston purchased the apartment in 1950 and spent a year renovating it before moving in the following year. The current owner of the property bought the apartment from Harry Winston in 1976, two years before his death. The building itself was built in 1917, designed by New York City architects Warren and Wetmore who also designed Grand Central Terminal. The 12 apartment building has been home to New York City’s elite, including billionaire Marc Rowan, and actress Mary Tyler Moore. However, the building’s coop has famously rejected many high-profile celebrities including an application from Barbara Streisand. It is clear to see why these homes have become so sought after, every inch of this 14 room home oozes majesty. Each room features soaring ceilings with many of the original features such as the moldings left intact. Dark wood herringbone floors run throughout the whole property, complementing the character of the decor. The interiors have been kept simple and timeless, however, there are a few surprises including a sunny yellow dining room and tartan reception room. As soon as you enter the apartment via a private elevator the entrance gallery leads into a living room with one of the best views in New York. The living room is just one of the many stately rooms filled with a large collection of American paintings and furniture, including the table at which George Washington played cards. See: Living room ideas – clever ways to decorate living spaces The yellow dining room has to be one of our favorite rooms in this property. Bright and sunny, this room wouldn’t look out of place in a stately home. A large elegant dining table is the centerpiece, how small tables have been arranged around the windows offering lovely caveat seating for a scenic breakfast or afternoon tea. If this property couldn’t get more luxurious, all the views across the Central Park South skyline and over the townhouses in the east are protected. See: Dining room ideas – the best decor, layouts and designs schemes for dining areas Leading from these rooms is a beautiful wood-paneled library with a wood-burning fireplace. The sumptuous oversized leather sofas are a unique retro-inspired twist that works well alongside the traditional decor. The tartan drawing room takes coordinating to the next level. The sofa, the walls, the curtains, and even the doors have been enveloped in navy and red tartan. One very important feature to note in this home is that it comes with walk-in wardrobes, note the plural. One of which is made out of cedar so you there is no concerns about moths getting at you best cashmere jumper. The property is currently listed with Louise Beit from Sotheby’s International Realty (opens in new tab), East Side Manhattan Brokerage. We can’t imagine this gem of a property will be on the market for long.
