A penthouse atop the Sohmer Piano Building at 170 Fifth Avenue in New York City has sold for $9 million after more than 500 days on the market, marking a steep decline from its original asking price. The residence, featuring five bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, initially listed in November 2024 at $25 million but failed to attract a buyer at that level.
The sale price represents a 64% reduction from the original listing and is only slightly above the $7.2 million paid by tech entrepreneur Greg Carr in 2001 for the unfinished space. Carr, who developed the property into a two-floor luxury home, transferred the listing to Concierge Auctions after extended market exposure and price adjustments brought the asking price down to $14.9 million.
The property, known for its distinctive 40-foot golden dome and panoramic views including the Empire State Building and Flatiron Building, features approximately 5,700 square feet of living space. Its design includes over 40 large windows, an 80-foot greenhouse-style window wall, two grand foyers linked by a circular limestone staircase, and a privately deeded roof deck. The corner primary suite offers extensive closet space and a spa-style bathroom.
Bidding began at $8.25 million during a live auction at Sotheby’s New York on July 29 after the reserve price was met. The buyer, recorded in public documents as White Piano LLC with an East 20th Street address, has not been publicly identified.
Listing broker Claire Groome of Sotheby’s said the auction approach was chosen after the property’s traditional sales method produced limited results. “Auctions are really exciting, and people like doing them. It’s the better way to move something that usually sits on the market otherwise,” she stated.
Carr, a founder of Boston Technology and former chairman of Prodigy, lived in the penthouse for nearly 25 years. He has noted that the residence holds historical significance tied to New York City’s architectural legacy and has recounted memorable moments spent there, including an occasion when actress Lauren Bacall danced beneath its gilded dome.
Currently, Carr is focused on philanthropy, directing the proceeds from this sale to the Gorongosa Project for wildlife conservation in Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, where he has invested over $100 million.
Sotheby’s co-listing agent Lawrence Treglia described the penthouse as more than a typical luxury apartment, highlighting its blend of architectural grandeur and connection to the city’s energy. “Whether you’re entertaining beneath the golden dome, enjoying sunset views from the private roof deck or simply taking in the natural light that pours through the home’s expansive windows, every space feels connected to the energy and beauty of New York City,” he said.