A sprawling duplex penthouse at 1122 Madison Avenue is in contract for $89.5 million, making it the most expensive New York City residence to go to contract so far this year and putting the under-construction residence on track to become the priciest condominium ever sold on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

The seven-bedroom duplex, developed by Legion Investment Group and Nahla Capital, reportedly found a buyer at its full asking price, an early—and decisive—vote of confidence in one of uptown’s most closely watched new developments.

Spanning the 20th and 21st floors, the aerie crowns the Studio Sofield–designed tower and offers nearly 2,000 square feet of private outdoor space, including a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Central Park, Museum Mile, and the Midtown skyline. Inside, a double-height great room anchors the home, conceived as a modern interpretation of a classic Upper East Side mansion rather than a typical condo in the sky.

That careful balance between traditional and contemporary elements was central to architect William Sofield’s vision for the project. As he previously told Robb Report, today’s buyers increasingly want the architectural gravitas of prewar buildings without the hassle of the years-long renovations they often require—a shift helping draw younger families and global buyers back uptown.

Sofield’s instincts appear well founded, as the tower’s brisk sales pace suggests the strategy is resonating. Since launching in January, 18 of the building’s 26 residences have already gone into contract, totaling more than $360 million in deals. Prices have been raised four times, with early homes averaging more than $5,400 per square foot.

The project has also benefited from another growing luxury-market trend—discretion. Like many trophy developments, 1122 Madison Avenue quietly fielded early interest through broker networks before its official debut, reflecting the rise of so-called whisper listings, where exclusivity and privacy often drive demand as much as architecture or amenities. Those amenities will span nearly 10,000 square feet and include a fitness center by The Wright Fit, a squash and basketball court, spa facilities, and multiple entertaining spaces.

“The penthouse embodies William Sofield’s vision for the building: a residence that is timeless, elegant, and rooted in the Upper East Side,” said Genghis Hadi, managing principal and co-founder at Nahla Capital. “The contract reflects the strength of the design, the building’s amenity offerings, and the lasting appeal of Madison Avenue as a global luxury address.”