Halston’s townhouse epitomises the glamour of 1970s New York

The 1970s is always popping up in contemporary design trends. Central to the aesthetic is the geometric minimalism that would define architectural styles from the 1920s well into the ’80s. Reaching peak mainstream appeal in the 1960s and ’70s, one could never discuss the movement without referencing Halston House — a leading example of 1970s glamour. The Upper East Side home of fashion designer Roy Halston was created by legendary modernist architect Paul Rudolph, and endures as an inspiration to architects and interior designers worldwide.

Originally commissioned for real estate lawyer, Alexander Hirsch, and his partner, Lewis Turner, in 1966, you may also hear the property referred to as Hirsch House. However, it wasn’t until it was sold to Halston in 1974 that it became a globally renowned party destination, frequently hosting Halston’s famous friends, such as Liza Minnelli and Elsa Peretti, and fellow stalwarts of the iconic Studio 54 scene.

During this era, the home became beloved for its sunken, grey-hued living area, where glittering guests would lounge on the low-slung sofas and plush ottomans surrounding a central marble coffee table. The home’s most distinct space, the 32-foot tall living room is beset by towering windows peering into the interior bamboo greenhouse garden. The room is connected to its overlooking balcony by a similarly iconic floating staircase, which is today lined with artworks reminiscent of the pop art era.

While the exterior of Halston House showcases the distinct clean lines and geometric shape of Rudolph’s Brutalist style, the property’s steely external modesty conceals a more elegant interior of soaring ceilings, large plexi-glass windows and, of course, distinct artistic flair.

The four storey, split level floor plan created a maze of rooms and living zones — perfect for Halston’s style of entertaining and the epitome of Rudolph’s sculptural style.

The legacy of Halston House

On par with Andy Warhol’s The Factory or Studio 54, Halston House is an artefact of ’70s-’80s New York. Having been the residence of several icons of gay culture, the property also holds a special significance to the LGBTQ+ community.

Along with the Rudolph Townhouse at 23 Beekman Place, and the Modulighter Building, it’s one of only a handful of Paul Rudolph buildings in Manhattan.

Halston House owners:

Where is Halston’s townhouse?

The former residence of designer Halston still sits at 101 East 63rd Street on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It remains a private residence, and is not open to the public.

Hear interior designer Greg Natale speak about Halston House and more of his design influences on The Edit podcast: