Private basement lap pools are a rarity even among the fabulously wealthy in New York. There are only a few dozen Manhattan townhouses that boast such a luxurious amenity, and currently, four of them are on the market. These historic homes, dating back to the 19th century, have been beautifully renovated with lavish interiors, landscaped patios, and, the pièce de résistance, a natatorium. Notably, all of these pool-enhanced homes are being sold by high-profile figures in the financial industry, such as hedge-fund managers and private-equity investors.
For those who don’t have access to a private pool, Manhattan offers more than a dozen free public outdoor pools that remain open until September 10th. However, be prepared for crowds as the Parks Department website warns of long entry lines, although they promise it’s worth the wait.
One particular townhouse that stands out is the 25-foot-wide Greek Revival mansion located at 109 Waverly Place in Greenwich Village. This exquisite property has intermittently been on the market for approximately six years and is currently listed at $21.95 million. In addition to the expected luxuries like an elevator, wood-burning fireplace, and high-end appliances, it also boasts a gym, sauna, and an enchanting glass-enclosed lap pool. The pool’s unique design allows onlookers to observe swimmers as if they were in a fishbowl. At present, the property is occupied by rental tenants paying a hefty six-figure monthly fee.
Another noteworthy property is located on the Upper West Side at 45 W. 70th St. Listed at $14.9 million, the price has dropped from $17.5 million two years ago. This townhouse features a pool that was added about a decade ago. The sellers, Sandra Piedrabuena and Russell Abrams, initially considered a resistance pool but ultimately decided on a larger lap pool. The 33-foot-long pool was a significant undertaking, causing disruption and inconvenience during construction. However, it holds sentimental value as their three school-age children learned to swim in this very pool. The family often hosted parties, inviting friends, neighbors, and classmates to enjoy this unique feature. Piedrabuena believes that the ideal buyer for this property would be someone who loves swimming or desires the joy that a pool can bring.
Further uptown, at 45 W. 95th St., sits another enticing property listed at $10 million. The 25-foot-long pool is a major draw for potential buyers, especially those with young children who seek additional activities within the confines of their home. The pool room is accompanied by a home gym and a mechanical room equipped with a dehumidification system.
In Lenox Hill, the neo-Roman townhouse at 45 E. 74th St. is listed for sale at $26.5 million. Alongside the pool, this property offers a small gym and a steam sauna. The rooftop terrace is perfect for sunbathing, and the addition of an elevator eases access to the terrace.
Maintaining these pools is relatively easy, according to pool experts. Unlike outdoor pools, indoor pools do not accumulate leaves or debris. However, there are specific maintenance considerations. It’s important to protect absorbent materials such as wood, sheetrock, or carpets from moisture damage, making dehumidification systems essential. Steel pools are often used for new construction on terraces or penthouses. Concrete is a more cost-effective option for basement pools. However, structural steel support is necessary for higher levels to withstand the weight of the water.
It’s worth noting that building basement or cellar pools in Manhattan can be challenging due to the logistics involved. Limited workspace and maneuvering room contribute to the difficulty. Additionally, removing rock during excavation can be a costly and time-consuming process, leading some projects to be abandoned. Architects must carefully consider design aspects, including compartmentalization and accessible piping for maintenance.
In summary, while private basement lap pools may be a rare luxury for the wealthy in New York, they do exist in a limited number of Manhattan townhouses. These properties offer lavish interiors, landscaped patios, and stunning natatoriums. If access to a private pool is not feasible, Manhattan provides several public outdoor pools, although they tend to be crowded. Maintenance for indoor pools is relatively easy, but various considerations need to be taken into account. Building basement or cellar pools can be challenging due to logistical constraints and the removal of rock during excavation. Nevertheless, for those fortunate enough to own a townhouse with a private pool, these unique features contribute to a splendid lifestyle in the heart of New York City.
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