Coop for $15.5 Million

Just south of the Museum of Natural History at 44 W. 77th St. there is a penthouse for sale that includes 4,187 square feet -- three bedrooms and 2 and 1/2 baths in an historic building developed by Walter Russell Bond and Realty. It is one of 32 residences in The Studio Building, and the work of architects Harde and Short, who prepared a floor plan for the penthouse apartment - originally known as The Studio House - with a double height studio 45 feet long for American sculptor Karl Bitter, the original owner. Since 1930, the residence was occupied by portrait artist Paul Treilcock. The pricetag is $15.5 million. An 11-room space, the original coop included four bedrooms, a library and three bathrooms.

In the present configuration each of the three bedrooms has open southern city views, according to Douglas Elliman, which has listed the property.