Inside Gloria Vanderbilt's "Old Money" Mansions

When you hear the last name of Gloria Vanderbilt, you immediately conjure images of grand mansions and luxurious apartments that epitomize the splendor and sophistication. In today’s episode of Old Money Mansions, we’ll take you on an exclusive tour of the iconic residences of Gloria Vanderbilt. From her magnificent mansions to her elegant apartments, we’ll delve into the architectural nuances and design choices that define one of America's most illustrious families. -------------------------------------------------------------- TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 Introduction 1:00 #1 Townhouse (Early Childhood) 3:47 #2 Paris Apartment (Post-Father's Death) 6:28 #3: Upper East Side Townhouse (1980s-1990s) 8:33 #4: The Midtown East Apartment (1990s-2019) 11:36 #5 The Hollywood Golden Era Pad (1930s) -------------------------------------------------------------- When the name “Vanderbilt” is mentioned, images of vast estates and opulent mansions often come to mind, evoking an era of unrestrained luxury and grandeur. Yet, legendary 20th-century heiress and fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt lived in a series of homes that were far more than mere symbols of inherited wealth. Her residences were veritable canvases where “old money” opulence met vibrant personal artistry. In the early days of Gloria Vanderbilt’s life, the stately townhouse at 39 East 72nd Street on Manhattan’s Upper East Side set the stage for her upbringing. This grand mansion, a prime example of Neo-Grec design, spanned seven stories and offered an expansive 18,504 square feet of space. It was here that young Gloria was enveloped in the luxury befitting her illustrious lineage, until the family’s relocation to Paris following her father’s death. The mansion’s facade, with its sandstone cladding and intricately carved details, echoed the grandeur of the Gilded Age, setting the tone for Gloria’s early years. After her father’s passing, Gloria and her mother settled in a luxurious apartment in Paris’s 8th arrondissement. The Haussmann-style building, with its high ceilings and expansive windows, was a blend of classic French elegance and modern flair. The apartment, adorned with rich fabrics and gilded details, was a testament to Gloria Morgan Vanderbilt’s exquisite taste and passion for the arts. This residence was not just a home but a vibrant setting that nurtured Gloria’s budding artistic talents, offering her a rich cultural environment that would shape her creative future. The 1980s brought Gloria back to New York, where she claimed a five-story brownstone in Carnegie Hill. This Upper East Side townhouse, with its ivy-adorned exterior and greenhouse studio, became a sanctuary for Gloria’s artistic endeavors. The grand staircase, formal living and dining rooms, and lush garden spoke to the home's enduring charm and Gloria's deep connection to the space. For nearly two decades, this townhouse was a canvas where Gloria’s artistic vision flourished amidst the grandeur of its original architecture. In the 1990s, Gloria moved to Midtown East, taking up residence at 30 Beekman Place. This apartment, with its eclectic decor and vibrant colors, reflected Gloria’s unique aesthetic. The second-floor unit, characterized by high ceilings and a whimsical mix of designs, became a testament to her lifelong commitment to art and transformation. Despite its modern amenities, the apartment remained a space where Gloria continued to explore and express her artistic spirit. The final chapter of Gloria’s residential journey took her to Beverly Hills, where she lived in a historic Hollywood mansion during the late 1930s. This property, once home to Greta Garbo, was a symbol of the glamour and allure of Hollywood’s golden age. Perched on a hillside, the mansion offered panoramic views and a blend of Art Deco and modern design elements. Its transformation in the early 2000s, while preserving its historical charm, mirrored the evolution of Gloria’s own artistic journey. Each of Gloria Vanderbilt’s homes represents a unique chapter in her life, blending her family’s “old money” heritage with her personal artistry. From the grandeur of her Manhattan townhouse to the eclectic charm of her Midtown East apartment, her residences were more than just places to live—they were expressions of her vibrant creativity and enduring legacy.