Introduction to Villa Charlotte Bronte

Villa Charlotte Bronte, a Bronx co-op once described by the New York Times as “a fantasy sand castle for the Amalfi coast designed by M.C. Escher,” has a unit back on the market. This comes as its community undergoes a generational turnover, with younger families moving into the storied complex.

Overview of the Property

The $1.31 million listing within Spuyten Duyvil’s Villa Charlotte Bronte spans 1,996 feet across three floors. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Hudson River, the 17-unit co-op indeed looks like it belongs in a coastal Tuscan village, rather than The Bronx.
The 17-unit co-op looks like it belongs in a coastal Tuscan village. The villa was constructed in 1926.

Unique Features

The property’s ivy-wrapped exteriors and leafy grounds — including a cave-like spot called the grotto — attract plenty of attention from neighbors and tourists alike. The three-bed, 2.5-bath home includes sweeping views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. The listing boasts woodburning fireplaces, a large stone patio, and an oversized eat-in kitchen with ample wood cabinetry. The living room boasts views of the Hudson. The entryway, kitchen, which includes ample storage, and a private stone terrace accessed through the kitchen, are all noteworthy features. One of three bedrooms, a bathroom, and the fact that the home comes with a washer and dryer, add to the property’s appeal.

Generational Turnover

Units in this transportive riverside retreat rarely listed in the past, but sales have increased over the last year. One unit found a buyer for $915,000 in January, and four others sold in 2024, according to records. Douglas Elliman agent Ari Susswein, who holds the current listing, said the recent uptick is a part of a generational turnover. Younger families have been moving into the co-op, with Susswein noting that recent sales have been a change of hands between older residents and “a lot of young, new families moving in.” The finished third floor is an open space, perfect for an office or gym.

History of Villa Charlotte Bronte

These standout homes were originally built in 1926, when the area was still largely farmland. The developer, a lawyer named John Jay McKelvey, was inspired by European architecture and reportedly found the rest of the city distasteful. One Lehman College professor called the property “probably the most determinedly picturesque set of buildings” in The Bronx. Villa Charlotte Bronte is visible from the Metro-North and Amtrak trains, the former of which has a stop in Spuyten Duyvil. The downside of frequent train horns and unwanted tourists is, however, balanced out by the rare opportunity of countryside living just 20 minutes from Grand Central Station.

Conclusion

Villa Charlotte Bronte offers a unique living experience, blending the tranquility of a Tuscan village with the convenience of being close to New York City. As the community undergoes a generational turnover, it presents an opportunity for new families to become part of this tight-knit community.

FAQs

• Q: How much is the listing price for the unit in Villa Charlotte Bronte?
  A: The listing price is $1.31 million.
• Q: What are the dimensions of the unit?
  A: The unit spans 1,996 feet across three floors.
• Q: How many units are there in Villa Charlotte Bronte?
  A: There are 17 units in the co-op.
• Q: What is the monthly maintenance fee for owners?
  A: Owners pay $2,147 in monthly maintenance fees.
• Q: How long does it take to get to Grand Central Station from Villa Charlotte Bronte?
  A: It takes approximately 20 minutes to get to Grand Central Station from Villa Charlotte Bronte.