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Elegant Uptown Historic District Two Bedroom with Large Garden and Private Entrance
Shared home in Harlem / Washington Heights, Manhattan
Hosted by Kurt, 4.9⭐ guest rating
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This was the third time we stayed at Kurt's Bnb. As always, our stay was outstanding. We have traveled the world and stayed in many 5 star hotels and Bnb's. Kurt's ranks at the top and is one of the most comfortable and homey stay we have had. Kurt's home is charming, comfortable, quiet and very close to great public transportation. It is equipped with everything you need for a great stay. Kurt is a top notch host. He is responsive, friendly, and accommodating. He is also a joy to interact with. This home is our home away from home when we come to NY. We highly recommend. Thanks Kurt for another great stay.
Pamela from Bonita, California
November 2025
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Just do it. I guess it’s a Nike advert, but also, it should be the slogan of Kurt’s Bnb. Just book it already. This place is fantastic - situated in such a cooool neighbourhood. This place invokes a real sense of community, no, it IS a real community. The neighbourhood is full of history and great names of former big eras and people, and changes in American society. It is also quiet and beautiful, and full of character. And Kurt’s entire house, and being, is full of character too. Who can say that they’ve stayed in a place with thousands of books (more than I’ve ever read in my life, I’m sure). Great connections to the rest of NYC, great eats, and a great stay. I’ll be back.
Roos from Seattle, Washington
October 2025
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We loved Kurt’s beautiful and spacious home in Harlem! From the amazing book collection, to the spotless bathroom dnd kitchen to great garden space. Kurt is an amazing host and we hope to come back soon!
Amber
October 2025
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This is an enchanting place to call home. Peaceful, eclectic and interesting. Comfortable beds, well stocked kitchen and magical garden. This petite- bookstore brownstone is close to the subway to explore Central Park, restaurants and museums. Lingering, reading and playing music is also an option to recharge. Orangello is a very sweet cat. Kurt is a wonderful host. A return visit is already on my mind.
Mary from Santa Rosa, California
October 2025
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How to describe a true NYC experience that felt like stepping into the past and experiencing the best of the city? First of all, Kurt is a host like no other. He is articulate, friendly, welcoming, a wealth of local recs, and extremely passionate about books and history! His orange lovely cat was my favorite addition to an incredibly well appointed and gorgeous house! The backyard?!?!!? OMG! How perfect and fairytale like. The beds were comfortable, soooo nice having two bedrooms, books galore! I only read part of one but felt I could spend a year just reading and lounging! Fully stocked and huge kitchen, big fridge! If I had endless funds I would be booking a month long stay since the location and unit are just perfect! Kurt is like a NYC Forrest Gump! His life is a testament to the greatness of NYC and a time when one could rub shoulders with Warhol, Keith Haring, Dada artists from the 40s, CBGB musicians, and figures in black history! I would recommend and would love to return
Annie from Los Angeles, California
September 2025
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This little gem was a comfortable, clean, and peaceful getaway after wandering the city all day. The subway is also conveniently close. Kurt was incredibly helpful, friendly, knowledgeable about the city, and a great host! A wonderful bonus was their sweet cat!
Jessica from Mount Vernon, Ohio
September 2025
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Kurt's apartment, as well as the surrounding area, is steeped in history and local culture. The location is very good with easy access to subway and bus lines, a great grocery store right around the corner, the Morris-Jumel mansion and park right next door. The beds are super comfortable, the kitchen is well-stocked, and the medicine chest in the bathroom holds all the little things you might need for toiletries and laundry. The private backyard is beautiful and relaxing - but watch out for the mosquitos! Use the repellent sprays that are thoughtfully provided.
Kathleen from Santa Rosa, California
September 2025
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I don’t even know where to begin. Kurt and Camilla’s place was incredible, and they were excellent hosts. The Bnb is a cultural experience in and of itself. Kurt was very helpful and had the best recommendations. The neighborhood is beautiful and it seems like every one knew everyone. We had the luxury and privilege to have a tour of Kurt’s entire book collection. My fiancé is an avid reader and so this place was a dream for her. Orangello was a huge plus. He was the best cat!
Isamu from Tucson, Arizona
September 2025
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Kurt was super responsive, his place was great - love all the books and coziness - and full of small little pleasant surprises including a nicely stocked kitchen and lovely garden area! A great find and a great host!
John from California, United States
August 2025
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Really unique and beautiful stay. Highly recommended to lovers of cats and books!
Emily
August 2025
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absolutely perfect. we were sleeping in a museum of words below the sweetest most knowledgeable curator in all the land.
Chelsie from Malibu, California
August 2025
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this was an unbearable stay. Kurt and his kitty cat were wonderful host, I highly remind staying here
Cassie from Caro, Michigan
July 2025
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Lots of character in the lodging , host and neighborhood. Historical area and lodging is full of books. Great garden you can use. Convenient to a variety of subway and bus lines. Kurt is super helpful and has been in the neighborhood for decades so he knows all the good spots. Place was somewhat dusty but didn’t bother us. Would stay there again for sure.
Teresa from Seattle, Washington
June 2025
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Very cozy, beautiful and PEACEFUL! Working in a backyard is something outer of this speedrun worldMany thnx
Dmitrii from Dubai, United Arab Emirates
June 2025
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Just a very quirky gem of a place to stay! The apartment is very comfortable and suited us very well - a lovely place to retreat to after long touristy days in town. And can’t be many places in NY with a private garden. Excellent local supermarket and laundry joint and easy walk to subway so don’t be put off by the 160 bit. We loved walking through Central Park from our subway stop to galleries etc further down.And then there’s the landlord - he couldn’t have been more welcoming, helpful and friendly. Thank you Kurt for the fascinating place, the history and the excellent chat over a few beers.No hesitation in recommending to anyone …
Isabella
May 2025
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Such a lovely place filled with books, jazz history, a great backyard and top-notch amenities. Kurt is a Harlem luminary that made us feel like true New York insiders. One of a kind experience
Jean-Brice
May 2025
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I can't say enough wonderful things about Kurt, Camilla and their delightful space!! The cozy book store home is as charming as the hosts! My third stay here and will not be my last! Each time walking in is like a warm hug! On a quiet street, a walking trail steps away, grocery store steps away and if you can't find a book to read while there...then you aren't even trying. Love the history, the sweet hosts, the outdoor garden and every thing about it! Until next time....
Kelly from Houston, Texas
April 2025
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Kurt’s home is an extremely rare gem, a timeless haven of peace and serenity in the midst of a forever changing metropolis. In every room you are enveloped by a stunning collection of rare books, antiques and beautiful music. The space is incredibly comfortable and very much feels like home. I was visiting NY for a week with my daughter to tour local colleges. We loved coming home to Harlem at night after a long day exploring the city. Kurt couldn’t have been more gracious and generous with his time. We were lucky enough to enjoy beautiful weather during our trip and were able to take full advantage of the gorgeous and peaceful gardens at the back of the property. This is a stunning home.
Marc from Los Angeles, California
April 2025
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Such an amazing place! Anything you could need is nearby and Kurt is just lovely. The home is comfortable and quiet and learning about Kurt and his life and career is awesome. Thank you again Kurt, we had a wonderful time!
Kimberley from Santa Fe, New Mexico
April 2025
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Finding a space that feels more like returning home than just a place to stay is truly special. It’s the little things that make it memorable—crisp, quality linens, chairs that invite you to sink in and linger, and the thoughtful touch of fresh fruit, as if someone anticipated your needs. Kurt not only created such a space but also shared the history of the house, insights about the local area, and glimpses into his life, making the experience even more personal. Kurt's Brownstone Library is a treasure trove of history, offering a deep connection to both the home itself and the surrounding neighbourhood. His communication was excellent, ensuring everything was seamless from start to finish. With easy access to public transport, it was the perfect place for my sister and me—comfortable, intentional, and full of warmth. The experience was made even better by the presence of a wonderful, friendly cat, who you could choose to invite into the space.
Penny from San Ramon, California
December 2024
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Kurt’s Brownstone Library is full of history inside and outside the neighborhood. My son lives close by so perfect to be able to meet up.Nice kitchen for morning coffee, easy to walk in the park close by, and subway is minutes away.Spin a few records and read the history of the neighborhood. The beds are comfy and I could stay for a month. Kurt is available for interesting stories and knows the best restaurants to check out.We will return in the spring and enjoy the lovely back patio garden.
Candace from White Salmon, Washington
December 2024
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This gem is the best BNB experience! I can’t imagine staying in a loud, crowded hotel when this affordable, fascinating, cozy, comfortable place is so. The history and host are simply incredible. I was sitting in NYC and really just wanted extra time to stay tucked inside Kurt’s place. I can’t wait to return.
Marla from Springfield, Missouri
December 2024
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We loved Kurt’s apartment, aka private library. What a find full of local history. We Loved playing his jazz albums and perusing the fascinating books. The beds are super comfortable. The apartment is super quiet. The neighborhood is safe and fun to explore. And despite being at the upper end of manhattan was easy to go back and forth into town. We HIGHLY recommend Kurt’s Bnb.
Karen from Bethesda, Maryland
November 2024
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If you are looking for a completely unique experience, this hidden gem is the place to book. It is truely iconic.The place is full of amazing art, books and history - it is completely unique experience that cannot be replicated. It is like staying in a cultural time capsule with literally thousands of stories to tell.Kurt was a hospitable and gracious host who went out of his way to ensure we were comfortable. He also has a wealth of historical knowledge about the area and NYC over the decades.The neighbourhood is safe and is right near the C train station, which takes you right into downtown manhattan. It also has a convenient supermarket just outside the station entrance.A truely amazing stay and experience. If this place is available, make sure not to miss out on this opportunity.
Warrick
November 2024
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[Translated from Italian] All good
Martina
November 2024
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We absolutely loved Kurt’s place. The location was perfect and the home was beautiful. Kurt was by far the greatest host we’ve ever had. We will be back!
Paula from Boca Raton, Florida
October 2024
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We loved our stay at Kurt's private library. The home was just as magical as the pictures portrayed and was made even more enchanting since Kurt took the time to explain the history and significance of the home and neighborhood. My mom and I stayed here while I was recovering from a minor surgery and I felt like this home was a perfect place to recover and heal with complete privacy. The neighborhood is so peaceful compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown, but has easy access to the subway and buses to get wherever you need to go. Kurt's food recommendations in the neighborhood were also on point -- you need to go to Malecon and Tsion! Oh, and special shout out to Kurt's cat for making us feel right at home as well :)
Elise from Austin, Texas
October 2024
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It was a great stay. Thank you hosts for everything.
Yuliya from New York, New York
October 2024
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Amazing stay! Really a unique Bnb experience. If you love books, cats, history and beauty, then this is your place! We had a great time thanks to the host and his assistant Orangolo the cat. The garden is beautiful both in sunny daylight and in darkness at night. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to learn more about the book store, the area and all that jazz.
Gunn
October 2024
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Kurt’s place was magical. Best way to start a day in the garden having coffee and petting the cat, Orangelo. Cozy way to end the day sightseeing in NY listening to records, with a glass of wine. Felt like home but better! Nicest and most hospitable couple to ever host us!
Perrin from Memphis, Tennessee
September 2024
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[Translated from German] Very pleasant, relaxed stay. Kurt was a courteous host. All information in the description was accurate. The kitchen is very well equipped. We felt very comfortable in the book oasis.
Cornelia
September 2024
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Wonderful abode and host. Comfortable, welcoming, clean, safe, full of history and stories. Beautiful, peaceful garden. Couldn't have asked for a more perfect stay. Highly recommend.
Carla from San Francisco, California
September 2024
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This was our second stay at Kurt's guest suite. This stay was as perfect as the last. Kurt and Camilla are outstanding hosts. The bnb is fantastic. It has a luxurious, cosy, and comfortable home feel. It's is ideally located in a beautiful historic neighborhood just steps from a great subway station that is minutes to major sights and venues. In our opinion, there is no better place to stay and this will always be our return spot. Thank you Kurt and Camilla for a wonderful time. Pamela and Delmar
Pamela from Bonita, California
August 2024
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We needed two bedroom accommodation in NY for our dad/daughter trip from the UK and preferred an Bnb to the usual hotel arrangements. We were so lucky to find this incredible place to stay, and to meet our wonderful hosts. If you want to feel the pulse of the New York City vibe, then you must stay here - a place that catches the rhythm of the coolest city on the planet. We’ve been blown away by the accommodation, the city, the people, and our stay here has surpassed any that I’ve had to the US before. From a practical perspective, the beds are super comfy, there is bathroom and kitchen facilities, and a private garden! The location is so well connected to the rest of NY with Central Park just 20 mins away. Despite the heat of summer, the pied à terre stayed cool and comfortable, even at night. And don’t bother with a tour guide, there’s more information in the books here about NY than the internet. I’m not kidding. Finally we must say a huge thanks to our hosts Kurt and Camil
Steve
August 2024
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My boyfriend and I recently had a wonderful stay at this charming Bnb hosted by Kurt. He was incredibly nice and knowledgeable about the neighborhood's history, sharing fascinating stories with us.The property was clean, beautifully decorated, and thoughtfully equipped with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen and cozy living area. I loved that the Bnb used to be a bookstore and enjoyed being surrounded by so many books. Meeting Kurt's sweet cat on the last day added extra charm.The location was ideal, in a quiet neighborhood & very close to the subway. Kurt's attention to detail made it a memorable experience. I highly recommend this Bnb for a delightful and hassle-free stay.
Stephany
July 2024
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[Translated from Chinese] We checked in in the early morning, and only when we got to the door did we find out the place was in the basement, with two large garbage bins right in front of the door. The sight inside immediately made our child cry: the ceilings were very low, there was no ventilation or air conditioning, and each bedroom had three electric fans that whirred loudly and were very noisy. What scared the child the most was a creepy human head sculpture on a desk in one bedroom. Most importantly, the bedrooms had no privacy at all—there were no locks, and a staircase led straight up to the landlord’s upstairs unit, so the landlord and their cat could come and go freely. After giving us instructions that early morning, the landlord did not leave the property to go back to their place from outside but instead brazenly went upstairs through an internal passage inside the unit. That is why we decided at dawn to leave immediately. We were too scared to sleep all night, sitting awake until morning, and hurriedly left. The house is very old and is located in what New Yorkers widely consider one of the most unsafe blocks of Harlem.
Jane
July 2024
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Kurt's place was an oasis! We loved our stay in the book-filled space and Kurt was bursting with insights and information about the history of the area and love for his home and the volumes that it contains. We're so grateful to have spent our family holiday here and would happily come back!
Andrea from Portland, Oregon
November 2023
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We consider ourselves very fortunate to have been able to spend a week at Kurt's remarkable place. It's truly special - so are the amazing Kurt and his beautiful wife Camilla. Fountains of wisdom, experience, old school NY character and excellence. We would love to return, more sooner than later. Our heartfelt thanks - Angelika & Harald
Angelika
October 2023
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kurt is a great and very helpful host. His knowledge about history and the neighberhood is astonishing. We felt very at home at Kurts appartement. And there's a lot to read too 😉.
Ronald
October 2023
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Kurt's place is unique and I both enjoyed it and appreciated it. The atmosphere as a former book store was soothing for me, an academic. Perfectly clean, well organized, great communication with Kurt. And working through the owner was so much better than working through property managers - you could feel his pride of ownership come through in so many ways.
Daniel from Boston, Massachusetts
October 2023
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My husband and I have been lucky enough to travel the world and stay at many top bnbs and 5 star hotels. Kurt's home is among those we call our best finds. His home is beautiful, charming, peaceful, and cosy. It has everything you could want or need. We felt at home and had a hard time leaving the comfort, style, and amazing book and record collection to explore the wonderful area of Harlem and NYC. Kurt is not only a super host, he is a unique, intelligent, charming person who goes out of his way at to makes your stay special. We have shared and recommended Kurt's Bnb to several friends already. We woul stay again in a heartbeat. Kurt's home is one of the few special places you could easily enjoy spending a month in while exploring all the area offers. Thank you Kurt. We had a wonderful stay and feel privileged to have met you and shared your home.Pamela and Delmar
Pamela from Bonita, California
October 2023
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I can hardly describe how beautiful, unusual and heartwarming this house is. Not to mention his two guardians, Camilla and Kurt! They are the soul of the house, just like all the thousands of books, records and paintings! Not to forget the incredibly sweet cat. There's really no need to say more about it and unfortunately that's true. Because New York City is also closing this gem with the new law. I fell in love with this place and was reminded of my wonderfully unconventional childhood home in Cospeda (Thuringia in Germany). May this New York idyll last for a long time!!! Thank you, Kurt…
Jan-Marcel
September 2023
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Our stay at Kirk’s place was wonderful. The place was as described. Kurt was responsive and he welcomes you with a brief tour of the house showing every single detail there is to it. Overall was a great vacation.
Anil from İstanbul, Türkiye
August 2023
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This is one of my all time favorite Bnb stays of all time! The location was one-of-a-kind; Not only close to the subway with easy access to pretty much anywhere in Manhattan, but also unique in its own right. The historic neighborhood had much to explore, including the Jumel Mansion right across the street, which is Manhattan's oldest residence and now a great museum. When we weren't out exploring, we loved the peaceful setting, complete with an array of books to flip through. I used to live in NYC and visit often, and this is by far the most unique place I've stayed. Don't miss it!
Adrian from Portland, Oregon
August 2023
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We had a great time at Kurt’s place. We especially loved our cat host! The garden and inside of the house were absolutely beautiful. We had the best time and thank Kurt for the incredible review of the history of the house and all his books.
Lindsay from San Mateo, California
August 2023
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Where to start… This place is every book lovers dream come true! Camilla and Kurt are the most interesting and lovely hosts! Oh and the cat - not to forget the polydactyl cat. We loved him too!Make sure to plan a day at the house - just listening to good music and enjoying the books. We didn’t want to leave, that is how much we enjoyed our stay.Great location, very quiet at night, we slept with the windows open and enjoyed the breeze. Thank you Camilla and Kurt for sharing your place with us.We can’t wait to come back!
Vanessa from Otelfingen, Switzerland
August 2023
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This was definititely the most interesting Bnb I stayed at. Kurt and Camilla were great, so was their cat. We had a really, really great stay and will recommend it to anyone who goes to New York.
Nicole from Netherlands
July 2023
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Kurt was an incredibly gracious and helpful host. We loved the fabulous book and record collection—and his knowledge of the area. A true neighborhood experience for our whole family. Kurt was also very flexible when our plans changed a bit on the last day! You won’t find a more charming and unique place from which to explore NYC. A beautiful base camp that even has a courtyard! I’ve already recommended this place to friends!
Katharine from Sugar Land, Texas
July 2023
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What a fantastic spot! We loved the neighborhood, the garden, and (not least) the book and record collections. Kurt and Camilla were friendly and generous hosts. Our family of four slept comfortably each night (the beds are great, the block is quiet). Highly recommended!
Polly
July 2023
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Staying here is different from all of our other Bnb experiences. Kurt and his wife Camille were both gracious hosts to their very unique place. From the wealth of knowledge Kurt shared about the place, New York, and the neighborhood to the wonderful and cozy home, everything added up to a wonderful and memorable stay. If you have any reservations about staying here for any reason, get them out of your head or you’ll likely miss out on a truly unique and special experience.
Mikon from Dallas, Texas
June 2023
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