Tour Greta Garbo's Manhattan apartment – you can still see echoes of the movie star's decor style

The eclectic listing overlooks New York's East River – a view that reminded Garbo of her native Stockholm

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York
(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)
Megan Slack
By Megan Slack
published

Greta Garbo's apartment on the fringe of the East River is currently on the market for $7.25 million. 

Located in the famous Campanile building on Manhattan's east side, this property boasts rose-hued Fortuny silk walls, a wood-paneled living room, and ornate French doors that lead to a private balcony. With these features and its prestigious postcode combined, this apartment is one of the most exciting listings currently on the market – and one of the world's best homes.  

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

Swedish-born Greta Garbo began her career in silent films before becoming one of MGM's highest-grossing box office stars. She is best known for her role in George Cukor's 1936 film Camille. She also starred in Ninotchka and Queen Christina before receiving an honorary Academy Award in 1954.

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

Greta retired from Hollywood at the age of 35 and led a private life in New York. Much of her retirement was spent in this apartment that still holds remnants of her decorating ideas to this day. Here, we tour the iconic property.

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

Perhaps the most striking of rooms is the wood-paneled living area that was said to be Greta's favorite space. Alongside the unique wooden walls, the room has a gas fireplace, reading nooks, and French doors overlooking the water. 

Despite its traditional aesthetic, the home exhibits a host of contemporary features – seen primarily through its modern kitchen ideas. The white-tiled space includes a five-burner stove and a custom maple-top island in the center of the space. This leads to a dining room that similarly boasts views of the river. 

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

For Greta Garbo-approved bedroom ideas, the primary suite is the best place to begin. The room features Greta's beloved rose-hued Fortuny silk walls and headboard, while the second bedroom includes a pink-and-green-accented V'Soske rug designed by the actress. 

A third bedroom currently stands as a home office – complete with a private en-suite that follows the home's classic design. 

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

Beyond the silk and wood walls of this unit, the wider Campanile building is equally striking. Other celebrities who have called the exclusive landmark their home include actor Rex Harrison, Ethel Barrymore, and members of the billionaire Rothschild and Heinz families.

Greta Garbo's apartment in New York

(Image credit: Courtesy of Compass)

Brian K. Lewis of Compass, New York currently holds the listing. Photos courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.

Megan Slack
Megan Slack
News Editor

Megan is the News and Trends Editor at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes. As the News Editor, she often focuses on emerging microtrends, sleep and wellbeing stories, and celebrity-focused pieces. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants. 

Latest