New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has officially taken up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion alongside his wife, the stylish Rama Duwaji. The couple, who previously lived in a modest one-bedroom apartment in Astoria costing $2,300 per month, marked the occasion with a press conference on the lawn of the 1799-built Federal-style home.
A New Chapter with Modest Beginnings
The initial changes planned for the 11,000-square-foot official residence are understated. A fresh coat of paint is being applied throughout the house, while movers were seen hauling a large dresser mirror into the bedroom. A touch of greenery was also introduced with the arrival of a healthy monstera plant.
However, the couple's most distinctive domestic upgrade is decidedly European. Mayor Mamdani announced plans to install several bidets in the mansion's bathrooms. "That's an aspirational hope. But let's see if we can get it done," he remarked during the move-in event. The fixtures, associated with hygiene and refinement, are mandated in countries like Italy.
Preparing for a Furry First Resident
Another significant addition to the mansion will be of the four-legged variety. Mamdani, a self-described loud and proud cat lover, confirmed the couple plans to adopt a cat to roam the historic halls. He had spoken about this ambition throughout his campaign, even appearing on a show about New York's famed bodega cats.
In preparation for the new pet's arrival, the mayor has been undergoing a course of allergy shots. "I am currently getting my allergy shots so that I can fight off my allergy to cats," he explained, demonstrating his commitment to becoming a pet owner.
The Storied History of Gracie Mansion
The iconic residence, named after its original builder, wealthy merchant Archibald Gracie, has served as the city's official mayoral home since 1942. It sits on 11 acres within Carl Schurz Park in the Yorkville neighbourhood on Manhattan's Upper East Side. Interestingly, this is an area where Mamdani actually lost the local vote during his election, with former Governor Andrew Cuomo carrying the neighbourhood by a significant margin.
The property boasts five bedrooms, a formal ballroom and dining room, and a veranda with sweeping views of the East River. Its charming yellow exterior was chosen by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who never officially lived there. Over the decades, the interiors have reflected the tastes of its various occupants, from Bill de Blasio's midcentury modern update to the drama that unfolded during Rudy Giuliani's tenure.
Mayor Mamdani cited family safety and the need to focus entirely on his affordability agenda as key reasons for moving into the mansion. As he and his wife settle in, they add their own chapter to the building's long history, complete with contemporary comforts and a soon-to-arrive feline companion.
