Tucked just off Sutton Place, this grand 22-foot-wide townhouse stands as a rare canvas for reinvention in the heart of Midtown East. Delivered vacant and stretching over five stories, the property currently offers over 7,000 square feet of usable space—with as-of-right potential to expand to nearly 9,000 square feet. Whether you’re seeking a refined institutional headquarters, a boutique residential conversion, or a custom single-family retreat, this building provides the structural integrity and layout flexibility to accommodate a wide range of visions.

Inside, the space flows through a series of intimate salons, meeting rooms, and lounge areas that boast original fireplace mantels, generous ceiling heights, and abundant natural light. Hardwood flooring, traditional millwork, and period details throughout offer both character and warmth, while the building’s elevator and multiple kitchens and baths add functional value across each level.

The floorplan is smartly laid out, with wide spans for creative programming. A rooftop deck and rear garden provide coveted outdoor components rarely found in Midtown. Several rooms already feature working fireplaces, making the space equally suited for hospitality, consular, nonprofit, or gallery use. The entrance gallery and reception-level public rooms evoke a timeless residential feel, while upstairs floors present elegant office and meeting configurations.

Located just a stone’s throw from the United Nations, the East River, and major Midtown institutions, this is a compelling choice for mission-driven buyers or end-users who need both prestige and privacy. The tree-lined block adds an air of tranquility to an otherwise central location, and zoning allows for creative expansion opportunities not easily replicated in this corridor. For the discerning buyer, 348 East 55th Street represents a strategic and versatile foothold in one of Manhattan’s most enduring neighborhoods.