Taylor Swift’s breakup with Joe Alwyn sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, and for her devoted fanbase, the Swifties, it sparked a poignant revisit to a beloved track: “Cornelia Street.” This 2019 song from the Lover album has surged in streams as fans emotionally connect with its lyrics depicting the fragile beginnings of a relationship set against the backdrop of Cornelia Street in New York City. Chart Data reported a significant spike in daily streams for “Cornelia Street” immediately following the breakup announcement, highlighting the song’s deep resonance with fans during this time.
“Cornelia Street,” the ninth track on Lover, vividly recounts the initial, hopeful stages of a romance blossoming in a townhouse Swift rented on Cornelia Street in Greenwich Village. It’s widely understood that the song is about Joe Alwyn, whom Swift began dating around 2016, the same time she resided at this New York address. The lyrics poignantly express the fear of losing those early memories, with Swift singing she “would never walk Cornelia Street again” if the relationship were to end. This powerful line has transformed Cornelia Street into a place of pilgrimage for fans, now tinged with both nostalgia and the bittersweet reality of the breakup.
Nestled in Manhattan’s charming Greenwich Village, Cornelia Street is typically a tranquil side street near the bustling Washington Square Park. However, in the summer of 2016, it gained a new layer of fame when Taylor Swift moved into number 23. David Aldea, the townhouse’s owner at the time and a former Soho House executive, revealed to Vulture that he was unaware of Taylor Swift’s celebrity status when she initially inquired about renting his property.
Constructed in 1910, the impressive 5,500 square-foot townhouse boasts four bedrooms, a well-appointed kitchen, a dining room, a dramatic double-height living space, a unique indoor pool, and several private outdoor terraces.
Exterior view of 23 Cornelia Street townhouse in Greenwich Village
From the street, the townhouse presents a relatively understated facade, concealing its three floors and basement. Aldea mentioned that Swift’s team was particularly drawn to the garage, offering discreet entry and exit for the musician. Despite these efforts, fans quickly identified her location, turning Cornelia Street into an unexpected landmark.
Garage entrance of the Cornelia Street townhouse providing privacy
The basement level houses a striking double-height lounge, illuminated by a grand Murano glass chandelier, and opens onto a private garden. This floor also features the indoor pool, also with a double-height ceiling and chandelier, alongside a gym area, creating a luxurious lower level retreat.
Indoor swimming pool with chandelier in the basement of Cornelia Street townhouse
The ground level includes the garage, while the first floor is the main living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining room, living room, and one bedroom. Notably, Swift shared a video online of herself composing “King of My Heart” in this living room for her reputation album. She even referenced the rooftop terrace in the lyrics of another song, singing about “nights we’re spending / Up on the roof with a schoolgirl crush / Drinking beer out of plastic cups,” further cementing the townhouse’s place in her personal and artistic narrative. This song is also believed to be inspired by Joe Alwyn.
Taylor Swift's living room in Cornelia Street townhouse, location for songwriting
Swift reportedly rented the entire townhouse, fully furnished, during the summer of 2016 while her own Tribeca apartment underwent renovations. This temporary residence became the backdrop for the genesis of her relationship with Alwyn and inspired one of her most emotionally resonant songs.
Master bedroom terrace in Cornelia Street townhouse with city view
The top floor master bedroom features a private terrace and a freestanding bath. Additionally, a rooftop terrace offers panoramic city views. The townhouse was sold in early 2019 for $11.5 million, marking the end of Swift’s direct connection to this specific address.
Cornelia Street in New York City has now transcended its physical location to become a symbol within Taylor Swift’s discography and for her fans. The renewed attention on “Cornelia Street” after her breakup underscores the powerful way music can intertwine with real places and personal memories. For Swifties, Cornelia Street is more than just a street in Greenwich Village; it’s a tangible representation of young love, nostalgia, and the complex emotions evoked by her music.
Photography credits: Chris Riccio, The Corcoran Group
Originally published in September 2022, updated in April 2023.
