Exclusive | This charmingly exclusive NYC ‘secret street’ hardly ever sees its…
Imagine a row of 20 yellow-painted wooden townhouses—each adorned with pine green shutters, double-door entries, and ornate brown cornices—lining a cobblestone path that leads to a grand mansion built in 1765. This idyllic scene may seem more historically suited to colonial America, yet it resides today in the bustling neighborhood of Washington Heights. Sylvan Terrace, long lauded as one of New York City’s sought-after “secret streets,” remains a tranquil world unto itself, offering a charming departure from the surrounding urban landscape.
This hidden gem, comprising enclaves where once carriage houses and horse stables lay, now houses a small collection of remarkable homes. These 20 three-story houses were developed in 1882 for working-class residents and now form the gateway to the Morris-Jumel Mansion, the oldest standing residence in Manhattan. Opportunities to own or rent these townhouses are rare, yet presently, three of them are inviting new occupants, offering a golden opportunity for those seeking to settle in one of the city’s most exclusive niches.
“It’s a really tight-knit community, and everyone looks out for each other—an element not typical in New York,” shares Alexander Scheirle, the executive director of the Grammy-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Scheirle, who acquired No. 7 in 2012 for $913,000, vividly describes the bond amongst Sylvan Terrace’s residents. His two-bedroom townhouse is now available for rent at $6,800 per month, with an inviting warmth characterized by its 11-foot ceilings, a historical mahogany staircase, exposed brick, and fireplaces.
The sense of community in Sylvan Terrace is uniquely strong, as residents usually remain for extended periods. According to recent sales records, only seven homes have changed hands since 2018. Out of these, just four have sold since 2021. This year’s single sale was marked by a $1.58 million transaction for No. 16. Many of these townhouses have been passed down for generations, remaining with the same owners for decades.
Scheirle himself intends to hold onto his cherished property, although he has been leasing it out since his family moved to Connecticut in search of larger living space for his children. “The home is too beautiful, too special, with so many fond memories,” he reflects. “Once you have a house like that, selling it doesn’t come easily.”
Yet, the market remains active. The townhouse at No. 8 is the latest on the block to list for sale. This three-bedroom dwelling, offered at $1.82 million, features wide-plank wooden floors, wood-beamed ceilings, and several fireplaces. The listing highlights a parlor level endowed with artificially recreated decorative medallions and a master suite with towering 15-foot ceilings. There’s also the potential to transform it into a two-family building by renting out the garden level for extra income.
Additionally, at No. 18, an 850-square-foot one-bedroom rental apartment became available in early August for $2,750 per month. It offers an open living/dining area, an original brick fireplace, a generous kitchen, and insulated double-pane windows.
Whether owning or renting, residents of Sylvan Terrace enjoy the perks of a supportive community. There are holiday and summer gatherings, and neighbors frequently assist one another, even retrieving misdelivered packages left on someone’s stoop. “Everyone has a shared experience,” Scheirle notes about the strong connections formed among those who have lived there. The warmth and camaraderie found here make it an exceptional place to call home.
This precious enclave in the heart of New York City stands as a testament to the rich history and evolving lifestyle that the neighborhood continues to offer to those fortunate enough to experience it.
