A Saudi prince recently bought Joan Rivers’ penthouse in New York City for $28 million in June 2015. The royal started making huge renovations on the property, which reportedly shocked old-time residents of the building.
Prince Muhammad bin Fahd, 65, recently purchased the penthouse triplex in Upper East Side in Manhattan, which measured 5,100 square feet. However, he wanted huge changes in the overall appearance, which featured crystal chandeliers, gilded walls, a sweeping staircase, 23-foot ceilings, antique columns, and marble fireplaces. The penthouse also included Louis XIV-inspired rooms, a music room, a former ballroom and two huge entertainment spaces that could accommodate 125 guests, based on an exclusive report by Daily Mail.
An insider shared the since Prince Fahd purchased the home, there were several contractors and designers that worked on the place. An insider said that the prince requested for a private elevator to be built. The building also has a full-time doorman because the billionaire prince wants nonstop security at the residence. Neighbors are actually surprised with all the work going on.
“He is ripping it to shreds. Everyone is surprised because the place had a certain French look, it was very specific, and one would think the buyer would be into that. And now he doesn't want that,” a source told Daily Mail.
“The whole Palace Of Versailles thing is going. It looks like all traces of Joan's style will be erased. It was not the look Prince Fahd wanted. So he is erasing what Joan did. It's kind of a shame. First Joan died. Now her condo is dying. But that is life, it is constantly changing. Still, it feels weird. The home will have a new, more update look. Top designers are being used,” the source continued.
Daily Mail wrote that the penthouse and building were built by millionaire John Drexel in 1903. Rivers bought the apartment in 1988 and also made huge renovations on the place. It was her main residence if she was not in Los Angeles. Joan Rivers died in September 2014.
Prince Fahd will not reportedly live in the penthouse. The property is said to be for his sons and their families when they visit the United States. No one will be living in the space full time, with the prince saying that it might only be occupied two to four months every year.
Prince Muhammad bin Fahd is the son of the late King Fahd. He is also the former governor of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
- Contribute to this Story:
- Send us a tip
- Send us a photo or video
- Suggest a correction
