Introduction
Linda Evangelista, one of the most recognizable supermodels of the 1990s, has officially listed her dazzling West Manhattan penthouse for a remarkable $8.2 million. Nestled within the historic Spears Building, this expansive residence reflects Evangelista’s refined sense of style and timeless sophistication. Beyond its celebrity allure, the penthouse stands as a masterful example of industrial-chic living combined with luxurious modern touches. In this exclusive feature, we explore the story behind the property, its captivating design, and why this listing is turning heads across New York’s real estate scene.
The Spears Building: Where History and Luxury Converge
Originally built in the late 19th century, the Spears Building once housed the iconic Spears Furniture Warehouse before its transformation into luxury condominiums in the 1990s. Maintaining its industrial character with exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and robust timber beams, the building offers residents a rich slice of New York’s history, perfectly blended with contemporary comforts.
Today, the Spears Building is celebrated for its authentic architectural integrity and highly desirable location in West Chelsea. Residents enjoy amenities like a 24-hour doorman, a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the Hudson River, private storage spaces, and a dedicated bike room. Its proximity to the High Line, Chelsea Market, and a constellation of world-class art galleries makes it one of Manhattan’s most vibrant addresses.
Inside Linda Evangelista’s Penthouse: A Study in Elegant Contrast
Grand Living Spaces Bathed in Natural Light
Spanning approximately 4,022 square feet, Evangelista’s penthouse immediately impresses with its sprawling open-concept design. The heart of the home is the voluminous living room, framed by 13-foot ceilings, pristine whitewashed brick walls, and polished concrete floors. Oversized windows, coupled with strategically placed skylights, flood the interiors with an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Anchoring the space is a dramatic wood-burning fireplace, a rare find in Manhattan apartments, offering both aesthetic charm and functional luxury during colder months. The living area transitions seamlessly into various lounging and entertaining zones, emphasizing openness without sacrificing coziness.
A Kitchen Designed for Culinary Inspiration
Adjoining the main living space is a meticulously designed kitchen that marries industrial edge with gourmet sophistication. Stainless steel Sub-Zero appliances, butcher block countertops, and exposed brick accents define the culinary space. A discreet breakfast nook tucked near the window creates an intimate setting for casual meals, while open shelving and custom cabinetry ensure that functionality meets minimalist beauty.
This kitchen is perfectly tailored not just for everyday living, but for hosting elegant dinner parties—a nod to Evangelista’s effortless grace both on and off the runway.
Serene Bedrooms and Spa-Like Retreats
The penthouse’s sleeping quarters continue the theme of relaxed luxury. The primary bedroom suite is an oasis, offering stunning river views, a spacious dressing room outfitted with custom closets, and a lavish en-suite bathroom. The bathroom features a deep soaking tub, a glass-enclosed rain shower, and dual vanities clad in natural stone, creating a spa-like environment designed for ultimate relaxation.
Additional bedrooms are equally versatile and generously sized, ideal for guests, work-from-home spaces, or creative studios. Each room maintains the home’s signature blend of historical character and refined modernity.
An Exceptional Private Rooftop Terrace
Undoubtedly one of the most coveted features of the property is the 2,500-square-foot private rooftop terrace. Expertly landscaped and thoughtfully arranged, the terrace includes multiple seating areas, an outdoor dining space under a pergola, a fully equipped barbecue kitchen, and a serene lounge perfect for sunset gatherings.
This outdoor sanctuary offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River, providing a rare blend of privacy, grandeur, and connection to the dynamic city beyond.
Market Context: A Rare Opportunity in West Chelsea
At $8.2 million, the penthouse is competitively priced at around $2,000 per square foot, a significant value proposition compared to other luxury residences in West Chelsea, where prime properties often exceed $3,000 to $5,000 per square foot.
Properties within the Spears Building are especially prized for their authenticity—a true loft experience that newer developments often attempt but rarely replicate. Evangelista’s home stands out not only for its scale and outdoor space but also for its impeccable condition and stylish pedigree.
With demand for unique luxury properties continuing to surge, especially those offering outdoor areas, this penthouse presents an extraordinary opportunity for discerning buyers seeking a slice of Manhattan history fused with modern living.
Linda Evangelista: The Legacy Behind the Listing
Few names command as much respect in the world of fashion as Linda Evangelista. As one of the original “Supermodels” alongside icons like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, Evangelista helped define an era. She graced the covers of countless magazines, fronted campaigns for major fashion houses, and famously quipped that she wouldn’t get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day—a quote that immortalized her star power.
Today, Evangelista’s career extends beyond modeling into advocacy and business. Her personal journey, including health struggles and a celebrated return to the spotlight, adds profound layers to her public persona. Owning her penthouse is more than a real estate acquisition—it’s an entry into a chapter of fashion and cultural history.
The Allure of West Chelsea Living
West Chelsea has emerged over the last two decades as a cultural powerhouse within Manhattan. Home to the High Line, the Whitney Museum, and an ever-evolving array of galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, the neighborhood offers a dynamic blend of artistic energy and sophisticated urban living.
The area’s blend of green space and modern design continues to attract a global roster of residents, from tech entrepreneurs to acclaimed artists. Properties offering authentic loft characteristics, like those in the Spears Building, remain in exceptionally high demand.
Adding to its appeal, West Chelsea offers convenient transportation links to the rest of Manhattan, while maintaining a more relaxed, neighborhood feel than bustling Midtown or downtown hubs.
Conclusion: A Penthouse Worthy of an Icon
Linda Evangelista’s West Manhattan penthouse is a masterclass in understated luxury. From its authentic architectural details to its breathtaking rooftop terrace, the home offers both historic charm and modern sophistication in one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in New York City.
For prospective buyers, the opportunity to acquire this residence is rare and resonant—not only for its intrinsic value as a real estate asset but also for its connection to one of the most legendary figures in fashion history. As the West Chelsea skyline continues to evolve, properties like Evangelista’s penthouse stand as timeless treasures amidst the city’s ever-changing tapestry.
This penthouse is more than a home; it is a living legacy, a celebration of style, and an extraordinary offering in today’s Manhattan real estate market.