One of New York City's most unique residential properties has officially changed hands. A former FDNY firehouse in Manhattan's West Village has sold for $19 million after attracting attention for its remarkable transformation from a 19th-century fire station into a luxury private residence.
Located at 78 Morton Street, the red-brick building was originally constructed in 1864 for the Howard Engine Company No. 34, a volunteer firefighting unit that later became part of the New York City Fire Department. The firehouse remained in service until the 1970s before sitting vacant for years. It was eventually converted into a single-family home, preserving many of its historic architectural details while introducing modern luxury amenities.
The five-story residence spans more than 7,000 square feet and features exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, oversized industrial-style windows, and a restored spiral staircase that pays tribute to its firefighting past. The property also includes over 2,000 square feet of outdoor space, including a private garden and rooftop terrace.
Perhaps the home's most talked-about feature is its underground jazz club and speakeasy-style entertainment space. Complete with a stage, wine cellar, and custom murals, the basement venue transformed the historic building into one of the most distinctive private homes in New York City. Additional amenities include a private elevator, a chef's kitchen, multiple terraces, and a rare four-car garage—an almost unheard-of luxury in the West Village.
The property was first listed for $21 million in 2025 before undergoing price reductions. It ultimately sold for $19 million in early 2026, making it one of the neighborhood's most notable residential transactions of the year.
The sale highlights the enduring appeal of historic adaptive reuse projects in New York City, where former industrial and municipal buildings continue to find new life as extraordinary private homes. In a city where history and real estate often collide, 78 Morton Street stands as a remarkable example of preservation, creativity, and luxury living.
