In the high-stakes world of Manhattan real estate, few properties possess the blend of architectural heritage, celebrity pedigree, and panoramic city views as the triplex penthouse at 39 Crosby Street. Once again, this architectural marvel is hitting the market, as soccer legend Thierry Henry and his longtime partner, Andrea Rajacic, look to finally move on from their storied New York City residence.
After a brief flirtation with selling the property early last year—only to pull it back from the brink due to a lingering emotional attachment—the couple has returned to the market with a renewed sense of purpose. This time, they are offering the expansive Soho spread at a revised asking price of $25 million. The listing, held by Joshua Judge of Sotheby’s International Realty’s Downtown Manhattan Brokerage, represents a significant opportunity for a discerning buyer to own a piece of both soccer history and downtown New York elegance.
A Legacy of Style: The History of 39 Crosby Street
The property’s story begins long before the French striker arrived in New York. The building itself is a masterpiece of the 1870s, a Neo-Grec cast-iron and brick structure designed by the esteemed architect Edward H. Kendall. Situated in the heart of the Soho Cast-Iron Historic District, the building embodies the industrial-chic aesthetic that has come to define one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods.
Thierry Henry, whose illustrious career at Arsenal solidified his status as one of the greatest strikers to ever grace the Premier League, entered the New York real estate market in 2010. Following his high-profile move to the New York Red Bulls, Henry and Rajacic sought a home that offered both privacy and a sophisticated backdrop for their life in the city. They acquired the duplex penthouse and the unit directly beneath it, embarking on an ambitious renovation project to merge the two into a seamless, high-end triplex. By customizing the layout to their personal specifications, they transformed a historic shell into a modern sanctuary of glass, steel, and light.
A Chronology of Ownership and Market Moves
The journey of this property mirrors the shifting tides of the global elite’s relationship with New York City.
- 2010: Thierry Henry and Andrea Rajacic purchase the duplex and the floor below for $14.85 million. Extensive renovations follow to tailor the space to their lifestyle.
- 2014: Henry retires from professional soccer and relocates to London. The Crosby Street residence transitions from a primary family home into a beloved vacation retreat.
- Early 2023: As their frequent visits to the United States begin to decline, the couple lists the property for the first time.
- Late 2023: After struggling to part with the home, the couple pulls the listing, opting to keep the residence for personal use.
- September 2026: With their focus now firmly anchored in Europe, the couple officially re-enters the market with a refined strategy and a $25 million price tag.
Architectural Grandeur: Inside the 6,000-Square-Foot Sanctuary
Spanning the top three floors of the building, the residence encompasses approximately 6,000 square feet of interior living space, complemented by a staggering 3,400 square feet of outdoor terrace area. The scale of the home is immediately apparent upon entry, where 14-foot ceilings create an atmosphere of airy, unencumbered volume.
The home’s layout is a study in thoughtful planning. The seventh floor functions as the heart of the home, featuring a sprawling living and dining area anchored by a gas fireplace and direct access to an expansive terrace. The kitchen, a chef’s dream in monochromatic white, boasts custom Italian cabinetry and a marble eat-in island, providing a clean, minimalist contrast to the industrial character of the surrounding Soho streets.
Perhaps most impressive is the media room and sun lounge, a versatile space that flows effortlessly into a private bamboo garden—a rare oasis of greenery in the concrete sprawl of lower Manhattan. Above this, an elevated mezzanine office provides a bird’s-eye view of the double-height great room, offering a quiet, contemplative space for work or study.
The Sleeping Quarters and Amenities
The residence is designed for both public entertainment and private rejuvenation. The sixth floor is dominated by the primary suite, a sprawling retreat that includes dual bathrooms with heated floors—a necessary luxury for New York winters—and an extensive dressing area with ample closet space. This level also houses an additional en-suite bedroom and a laundry room, alongside a wraparound terrace that offers intimate outdoor space.
The fifth floor, which features its own separate entrance, provides flexibility for guests or staff. It contains three additional bedrooms, a den with a fully equipped kitchenette, two full bathrooms, a powder room, and a secondary laundry facility. This configuration ensures that the residence can accommodate large groups or extended family while maintaining a sense of separation and privacy.
The jewel in the crown, however, is the private rooftop terrace. Spanning 1,221 square feet, the roof is outfitted with a pergola, a full outdoor kitchen featuring a built-in grill, and dedicated areas for dining and lounging. From this vantage point, the views of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and the soaring spire of One World Trade Center are unparalleled, capturing the spirit of the city from a serene, elevated perspective.
Supporting Data: The Economics of Luxury Living
Owning a property of this magnitude in Soho comes with significant responsibilities and costs. The monthly common charges for the residence currently sit at $6,787. This fee covers the upkeep of the historic building’s infrastructure, the keyed elevator service, and the maintenance of the common areas.
Furthermore, the logistical ease provided by the two deeded parking spaces is a rarity in downtown Manhattan. The ability to pull into a private parking area and ascend directly to one’s home via a keyed elevator provides a level of security and convenience that is highly sought after by high-net-worth individuals.
The market performance of similar properties in Soho suggests that while the $25 million ask is premium, it is backed by the scarcity of such large-scale, outdoor-heavy, historic penthouses. The “Henry factor”—the provenance of the property—often adds an intangible value to luxury listings, as buyers are frequently drawn to homes that have been meticulously cared for by high-profile figures.
Official Responses and Market Implications
Joshua Judge, the listing broker from Sotheby’s International Realty, has noted that the current market for trophy properties in downtown Manhattan remains robust. "Properties of this caliber—with their historic character, massive outdoor footprints, and celebrity history—are rarely available," the firm stated in recent promotional materials.
The decision to return to the market indicates that Henry and Rajacic are now fully committed to a future in London. Their previous hesitation to sell is a testament to the quality of the renovation and the unique atmosphere they curated within the walls of 39 Crosby.
For the real estate market at large, this listing serves as a bellwether for the "trophy" sector in New York. While interest rates and global economic shifts have dampened activity in the mid-tier market, the ultra-luxury segment continues to see movement, particularly for homes that offer unique architectural features that cannot be replicated in new construction.
Conclusion: A Rare Opportunity in Soho
As the sun sets over the Manhattan skyline, casting a golden hue over the terrace at 39 Crosby, one can easily see why Thierry Henry and his family held onto this property for so long. It is more than just an apartment; it is a meticulously crafted home that balances the grit of 1870s New York with the refined sensibilities of a modern global citizen.
For the potential buyer, the property offers a rare trifecta: a piece of soccer history, a masterclass in interior design, and a permanent slice of the New York City skyline. Whether used as a primary residence or a pied-à-terre, the penthouse remains a standout in the downtown market, waiting for its next chapter to begin. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, it stands as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Soho and the timeless allure of a truly exceptional home.
Pevita Pearce
Suro Senen
Sagoh
