Gerard Butler, the Scottish-born actor and film producer, is on the hunt for a new residence.
The talented thespian, currently in “Kandahar,” is known for starring in so many modern action-hero “dad movies” that Collider recently noted he “is on the verge of becoming a genre unto himself.”
Over the past few months, we hear, Butler has been spotted touring residences such as this magical Gramercy Park duplex penthouse — a cozy two-bedroom, one-bath co-op at 105 E. 16th St. It’s currently on the market for $4.99 million, down from its $5.75 million ask last year.
Butler has an eye for special properties. His Chelsea duplex at 139 W. 19th St. once graced the cover of Architectural Digest and asked $6 million, as Gimme Shelter reported in 2017. Butler still owns that duplex and it’s not clear if he’s currently house hunting for himself or for his girlfriend, as the couple both toured the property, our spies say.
The seller of the Gramercy Park penthouse is Mark Lee, the former CEO of Barneys New York and head of Gucci, who bought it for $4 million in 2018.
The home boasts a main living space with a bedroom and a full bath — plus “a rare freestanding cottage” surrounded by gardens and terraces on the roof.
It would be a tony home fit for a celeb. Butler’s top-ranked flicks included “300,” “Gods of Egypt,” “Geostorm,” “Den of Thieves,” “Law Abiding Citizen,” “Greenland,” “Plane,” “Angel Has Fallen” and “Copshop.” In addition, a sequel to “Greenland” is also in the works.
The corner open living and dining space comes with a woodburning fireplace, 14 casement windows, beamed ceilings and salvaged wide-plank oak floors.
The main bedroom features a custom leather headboard, built-in nightstands and storage along with a walk-in closet. There’s also an open chef’s kitchen with views of the cottage, and an outside banquette dining area with a TV.
That cottage currently serves as a guesthouse/writer’s studio, with 10-foot peaked ceilings, a picture window and built-in storage and shelving.
The rooftop garden, by landscaper Harrison Green, is irrigated and includes lighting and sound systems, along with mature trees, rosemary, lavender and hydrangeas.
“I bought the penthouse in 2018, when I was newly retired and newly single after many years,” Lee told Gimme Shelter. “I wanted a refuge in the heart of downtown and was attracted by the extraordinary outdoor private space spread on two levels. I was fortunate to have had some private outdoor space in New York City for many years, but this was truly exceptional and allowed me to host amazing dinner parties and movie nights outside for friends.”
“The quantity of windows and light, combined with the outdoor space and views is very special,” Lee added. “After 42 years in New York City, my life since the pandemic has shifted to California. I will always be a New Yorker, but at this stage of life, I’m just not there enough of the year to deserve to keep the apartment. It should pass on to someone who can appreciate and enjoy it.”
The listing broker is Mary Ellen Cashman, of Compass.
