In the 1930s, renowned abstract expressionist Mark Rothko and his first wife, Edith Sachar, made their home in a quaint apartment within a Greek Revival townhouse located in Manhattan's East Village. It was here that Rothko created his notable painting "Thru the Window," which he famously inscribed with the address "313 E 6th" alongside his signature.
The entire multifamily building was acquired for $45,000 in the 1970s by the innovative filmmaker Emile de Antonio, celebrated for his documentaries on significant historical events. Subsequently, artist Alfred Leslie utilized the garden level as his creative studio.
Following a fire that devastated the top floor in 2022, the once-vacant structure was listed for sale the next year for the first time in over fifty years. Michael Auriemma, a retired principal from an international consulting firm, purchased it shortly thereafter for approximately $3.7 million. He undertook a comprehensive restoration, investing millions in upgrades including new plumbing and electrical systems, a structural steel roof, and enhancements to the rear facade.
Now, nearly two years later, this historic brownstone has been transformed into a boutique condominium complex known as the Rothko House. The triplex penthouse is currently on the market for $6.2 million, with another triplex on the lower floors anticipated to be available soon. The listing is managed by Jeff Wachtenheim of Corcoran.
Spanning the top three levels of the six-story building, the triplex features three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and an additional powder room, all within approximately 2,800 square feet. The interiors boast caramel-hued hardwood flooring, high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and intricate tile and millwork.
The lower level showcases a spacious living room with expansive north- and south-facing windows. Adjacent to the dining area is a versatile space suitable for a bar or workstation, while the kitchen is equipped with custom cabinetry, a marble backsplash, an eat-in island, a Wolf range, and a cozy breakfast nook with built-in seating.
On the second level, two generously sized en suite bedrooms are separated by a taupe-hued den. The top-floor primary suite offers a sliding glass door that opens to a private terrace, providing stunning views of the city skyline, including the Freedom Tower. Additionally, it features a walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom with a freestanding oval soaking tub. Monthly common charges amount to $1,704.
Rothko, who passed away in 1970 at the age of 66, was just beginning to make his mark during his time on East 6th Street. Today, his artwork commands prices in the tens of millions. For instance, hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin acquired Rothko's 1951 masterpiece "No. 6 (Violet, Green and Red)" in 2024 through a private sale at Christie's for around $100 million.