A timeless way to live.
Since 1875, Isabella has been a trusted cornerstone of Washington Heights — a place where generations of New Yorkers have discovered that living well and aging gracefully are not only possible, but beautiful.
Founded in 1875, Isabella House began with a simple belief: everyone deserves to live with dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging. Today, that spirit continues in a new chapter of independent living—one shaped by more than a century of history and thoughtfully reimagined for the way New Yorkers want to live today.
Founded by Oswald and Anna Ottendorfer, Isabella House was created as a place where older New Yorkers could live with dignity, community, and a true sense of home. More than 150 years later, that spirit remains at the heart of Isabella House.
Independent living isn't about what you give up. It's about what you gain—more time, greater ease, meaningful connection, and the freedom to enjoy each day on your own terms.
Isabella House's next chapter is inspired by the principles associated with longevity: natural movement, nourishing food, meaningful relationships, purpose, and a strong sense of community—all woven naturally into everyday life.
Light-filled. Comfortable. Understated. Choose from studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom residences designed to feel like home—with generous kitchens, thoughtful layouts, beautiful views, and select residences featuring private balconies and walk-in closets.
Tree-lined walking paths. Landscaped gardens. Seasonal flowers. Quiet places to sit beneath the shade. Open green spaces made for morning walks, afternoon conversations, and simply spending more time outside.
Here, the energy of New York is always within reach—but home feels like a world of its own.
Your Home in the City.
Your Sanctuary From It.
At Isabella House, wellness is woven into everyday life. Inspired by principles associated with longevity, our approach brings together natural movement, nourishing food, meaningful connection, creativity, and purpose—all designed to support a life that feels active, fulfilling, and entirely your own.
Move Naturally · Eat Well · Stay Connected · Find Purpose
Life at Isabella House is designed to make every day feel a little easier. From chef-prepared meals and utilities to daily programming, weekly linens, on-site maintenance, and 24-hour security, many of the everyday essentials are already taken care of.
So you can spend less time managing the details—and more time enjoying the life you’ve built.
Isabella offers something rare: the space and serenity of a residential campus without leaving Manhattan.
Step beyond our grounds and you’re surrounded by the culture, energy, history, and character of Washington Heights—with the rest of New York always within reach. You don’t have to choose between a peaceful place to call home and the city you love.
You Can Have Both!
Walk the grounds. Explore the residences. Experience the community. And discover a different way to live in New York.
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