Iconic Dakota Co-op Hits Market: Own a Piece of NYC History for $6.2M

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A Glimpse into NYC’s Historic Dakota Co-op

Step into a piece of New York City’s storied past with the Dakota’s latest listing: a magnificent four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence now available for $6.2 million. Nestled next door to the former home of Yoko Ono and John Lennon, this seventh-floor unit offers a rare opportunity to live amidst the legends of the Upper West Side.

Historic Charm Meets Contemporary Luxury

This grand co-op, last owned by the esteemed lawyer Paul H. Epstein, who passed away in 2022, is a testament to both architectural splendor and cultural significance. Epstein, renowned for his work in copyright law with icons like Leonard Bernstein and Rodgers & Hammerstein, had a profound influence on 20th-century music and theater. His residence, acquired with his husband Garry Parton in 2012, is now ready for its next chapter.

The Dakota, a historic gem built in 1884 and designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, remains a beacon of New York’s architectural heritage. This particular unit, reflecting the building’s signature ornate style, features a formal gallery, five fireplaces, and a spacious living room offering panoramic views over the Upper West Side.

Elegant Interiors with a Historical Backdrop

Inside, the apartment’s 13-foot ceilings, intricate moldings, and classic wainscoting exude timeless elegance. The living room’s grand fireplace and the adjacent library—currently used as a formal dining room with a hidden wet bar—add to the home's charm. The dining area overlooks the Dakota’s serene courtyard, enhancing the unit’s allure.

Represented by Daniela Kunen of Douglas Elliman, this co-op is a rare find within the 93-unit building, where turnover is notoriously infrequent. Recent sales in the building highlight its exclusivity, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow’s purchase of a three-bedroom unit for $4.99 million earlier this year.

Yoko Ono’s Lasting Legacy

Though Yoko Ono has retreated to a 600-acre farm in Franklin, New York, her connection to the Dakota remains a significant part of its legacy. Ono’s residence at the Dakota, starting in 1966 and extending through John Lennon’s tragic death in 1980, made her an enduring figure in the building’s history. Their expansive presence, including multiple units for various uses, underlines the couple’s deep-rooted connection to the Upper West Side.

The Dakota’s Timeless Appeal

While modern luxury developments may boast the latest amenities, the Dakota’s allure lies in its rich historical and cultural context. As America’s first luxury apartment building, it embodies an era of opulent living that continues to captivate those who appreciate its legacy. Notable past residents like Lauren Bacall, whose nine-room apartment sold for $21 million in 2015, reinforce the Dakota’s status as a symbol of New York’s grandeur.

Architectural historian Scott Cardinal aptly describes the Dakota’s charm: “All it needs is 100 people who think it’s awesome.” This sentiment reflects the building’s ability to attract those who value its unique blend of history and elegance.