The Machinery Exchange, 136 Baxter Street

The Machinery Exchange, 136 Baxter Street

A rarely available combination of pre-war loft and glass modernism, Penthouse A at 136 Baxter Street is a highly private duplex bathed in sunlight on one of downtown’s most exciting, yet under-the-radar, blocks. With a large terrace that runs the entirety of the great room, the upstairs level has an impressive indoor/outdoor flow. The layout allows for a formal dining area, in addition to a proper living room, anchored by the wood-burning fireplace. Downstairs, 10’2" yellow pine ceilings, white-washed masonry walls, original timber beams, oak floors, and three generously sized bedrooms - including a massive principal suite - create a pre-war sanctuary. At almost 2,600 square feet of interior space, this three-bedroom penthouse can easily convert to a comfortable four-bedroom without losing flow. Available for the first time in over ten years, Penthouse A is a rare opportunity to own one of only two penthouses in the building. Enter on the upper level - there is a separate entrance on the lower level as well - into the great room, which greets you with its wall of east-facing windows and sliding glass doors that look over the 675 square foot terrace. The large kitchen has an eat-in breakfast bar that opens into the space. Two sliding glass doors create easy flow to the terrace, which itself has multiple seating areas and offers eastern and southern city views. A powder room upstairs makes the home perfect for guests and hosting. The stairs to the lower level are unobtrusive in the northern corner of the home. Downstairs you’ll find the private quarters: three bedrooms, two of which have en-suite bathrooms, plus a third full bathroom and a laundry room. The stately timber beams create structure to this space, while the white-washed brick walls hint at its century-old character. The principal bedroom is enormous, and includes two large steel-framed east-facing windows looking out over Baxter Street. It includes two large closets and an en-suite bathroom with a double vanity and separate soaking tub. The second bedroom also faces east and has two closets, in addition to an en-suite bathroom. The final bedroom connects to a full bathroom in the hallway, where there are two more large closets. 136 Baxter Street, known as the Grand Machinery Exchange, is a former horse stable for the Famed Police Building, perched at the nexus of Lower Manhattan. Built in 1915, this 12-unit boutique condominium was reimagined by Gallerist turned developer, Max Protetch, and is currently maintained by a full-time resident manager who accepts packages, a 24-hour virtual doorman and deeded storage. Neighborhood highlights include the 11 Howard Hotel around the corner, as well as dining establishments like La Mercerie, Smile to Go, Sant Ambroeus, Jack’s Wife Freda, and Eataly. Also within close proximity is Walker Street, the centerpiece of a burgeoning downtown gallery scene.