Bidding opens on Fifth Avenue penthouse with all proceeds going to African conservation

Concierge Auctions has opened bidding at $8.25 million for a landmark Flatiron District penthouse in Manhattan, with the live auction set for July 29 at Sotheby’s New York. The seller says 100% of the proceeds will support the Gorongosa Project in Mozambique, adding a conservation mission to a high-profile luxury sale.

Why it matters: - The sale pairs a rare Manhattan trophy property with a philanthropic structure that sends the full purchase price to conservation work in Mozambique. - The auction gives buyers a chance to acquire one of Fifth Avenue’s most distinctive residences while directing capital to the Gorongosa Project. - The property’s sale also triggers funding through Concierge Auctions’ Key For Key giving program for homes built for families in need.

What happened: - Concierge Auctions said bidding is officially open at $8.25 million for a penthouse in the landmarked Sohmer Piano Building in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. - The residence is listed for $14.9 million and is being offered with Lawrence Treglia and Claire Groome of Sotheby’s International Realty. - The live auction is scheduled for July 29 at Sotheby’s New York as part of Sotheby’s “America 250” Sale. - Concierge Auctions said 100% of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Gorongosa Project in Mozambique.

The details: - The penthouse sits atop one of Fifth Avenue’s most architecturally significant buildings, directly next to the Flatiron Building. - Architect Robert Maynicke designed the Sohmer Piano Building in 1897. - The residence has been completely renovated while preserving the building’s landmark character. - The home features more than 40 oversized windows and an 80-foot greenhouse-style window expanse. - Two grand foyers connect through a circular baronial limestone staircase. - A privately deeded roof deck and a golden dome cupola provide 360-degree views of Manhattan landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building. - The corner primary suite has three exposures, more than 35 linear feet of closet space and a spa-style bath with a Waterworks soaking tub. - Four additional bedrooms add space for guests, family or office use. - The property is near Madison Square Park, Eataly, Union Square Cafe, Rezdôra, Hawksmoor and Hillstone. - Union Square’s transportation hub is within a 10-minute walk. - The home is available for private showings by appointment, in person or virtually. - Images of the property are available online, and the photos should be credited to Eitan Gamliely and Shawn May Photography. - Agents will be compensated according to the Listing Agreement and auction terms. - More information, including property details, a virtual tour and diligence documents, is available on Concierge Auctions or by calling +1.212.202.2940.

Between the lines: - The auction uses scarcity on both sides: a one-of-a-kind address and a single philanthropic beneficiary. - Sotheby’s “America 250” framing gives the sale a broader showcase beyond a standard luxury listing. - The structure signals how ultra-luxury real estate can be packaged with public-facing social impact to widen interest. - Concierge Auctions said the response from prospective buyers has been strong, suggesting the cause may be amplifying demand as much as the property itself.

What's next: - Bidding will continue until the live auction on July 29 at Sotheby’s New York. - The closing will also fund new homes through Concierge Auctions’ partnership with Giveback Homes. - Private showings will continue ahead of the sale by appointment, including virtual tours. - Concierge Auctions will use the auction as part of its broader luxury real estate platform, which it says is built around digital marketing, property previews and live bidding.