The small scale, quiet, and personalized feeling makes it worth the lack of extras.

How did it strike you on arrival?

The Lowell is anything but flashy, tucked away on a quiet side street on the Upper East Side. And once inside, you’ll find an art- and antique-filled oasis, with nooks perfect for sinking into plush sofas and chairs while having a glass of wine by the fireplace.

The smallest rooms here are still a spacious 400 square feet, and all are designed by President Obama’s White House decorator Michael S. Smith. The color scheme is one of soft neutrals and pale blue, which complements the polished oak floors and wood burning fireplaces.