Throughout history, many artists have created live-work environments where their personal home and studio are intertwined. After all, you never know when inspiration will strike.
That’s exactly how this Kip’s Bay address has been used by its current owner for nearly 50 years. The ivy-covered brownstone on E 25th Street was built in 1848 and famously operated as a sculpture foundry for most of the 20th century. In the aftermath, photographer Clara Aich saved the building and kept its artistic legacy alive, living and working here, but she just listed the unique property for $7.95 million.
Rochette & Parzini, a sculpture firm founded by a Frenchman and an Italian that was known for helping craft landmarks like the Morgan Library, Waldorf Astoria Hotel and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, used it as their headquarters from 1909 to 1972, according to a profile by the New York Times. Aich came to the property shortly after in 1977, drawn to a building in ruins with plaster models left behind. Despite words of warning from peers, she managed to put down a downpayment and began lovingly restoring the property.
The fruits of her labor are clear today. The seller still has those plaster findings on display, but will be taking all these treasures with her.
Spanning four floors and 5,000 square feet, there are almost two design styles melded into one—the artsy and eclectic studio side, and the bright and refreshing living spaces. The entry opens to a vast, rich living space with 25-foot ceilings and a huge skylight. It’s here that Aich often hosted artsy gatherings, especially musical performances and plays. The upstairs primary suite is right upstairs, filled with the same creative spirit. It boasts rugged wood beams, brass finishes, and even a steel tub sat next to a fireplace.
The sun-drenched duplex on the back of the building provides a stark contrast with its white exposed brick and also has a separate entry. This space could serve as an artist’s separate wing away from their work. It also wows with sweeping 26-foot foot ceilings and a large skylight, plus an original iron chain pulley that nods to the home’s past. Other amenities to look forward to include two lower spaces long used as dark rooms, a sauna, and a south-facing terrace.
Whether the buyer is another artist or just someone who loves a home with a special story, this is undoubtedly a NYC gem. Jonathan Hettinger and Mark Thomas Amadei of Sotheby’s International Realty hold the listing.
