A Penthouse for Artists: Where Creativity Blooms and Music Fills the Air

Nestled amidst the vibrant streets of the Upper West Side, at the crossroads of West 86th Street, stands an extraordinary building with a rich history entwined with the arts. Its spacious apartments, designed at the turn of the 20th century, were meticulously crafted to attract artists of all disciplines. The allure of expansive living rooms, where massive canvases could effortlessly roll in, and the soft glow of northern-facing, leaded-glass windows, which cast a perfect light on models, made it an irresistible abode for creatives.

As if by osmosis, the building drew not only painters but also another breed of artist—pianists. The walls of these apartments echoed with the melodies of maestro Paolo Martucci, who gave lessons from his studio between world tours. C. Virgil Gordon, a renowned pianist and silent-film star, used his apartment to host student recitals. The space also became a sanctuary for composers like David Gould Proctor, where they could immerse themselves in the creation of their musical masterpieces. Concert pianists Conrad Forsberg and Harold Henry sought solace within these walls, and in 1929, the legendary Frederic Dixon hosted a grand concert in his home, accompanied by the vocals of Florence Easton, the first Dallas native to grace the stage of the Metropolitan Opera.

Decades later, the penthouse duplex at 257 West 86th Street welcomed Dr. Idith Meshulam Korman, a gifted pianist, who moved from Tribeca seeking a space that would accommodate her passion for music. The grand living room, with its soaring ceilings and a piano nestled against the high, leaded-glass windows, became her sanctuary for practice, rehearsals, and even impromptu concerts. The exceptional acoustics of the room allowed the music to flow effortlessly, creating an ambiance that inspired countless informal gatherings that would often spill onto the sprawling private terrace—a rare gem in the 40-unit building.

The Kormans discovered that their fellow neighbors shared their artistic spirit. They purchased their home from actress Darby Townsend, who herself had acquired it from actor Robert Duvall. The ground floor housed the studio of renowned dancer Raoul Gelabert, who had operated a dance studio in the building since 1965.

The Kormans, with their appreciation for the building’s artistic legacy, chose to preserve the original character of the apartment. The dark woodwork—coffered paneling and beams—had been painted in crisp white, giving the space a fresh, modern feel. The kitchen had been updated with lighter wood cabinetry, adding a touch of warmth. They refinished the floors, restored the functional wood-burning fireplace, and enhanced the ambiance with lighting designed by their artistic friends.

The formal dining room was transformed into a cozy library, where they could retreat for reading and movie nights. The walls were adorned with paintings by their esteemed friends, including an image of a paratrooper by Eyal Danieli, a hippopotamus painting by Ezra Kohn, and works by Louise Fishman, with whom Idith had collaborated.

After years of nurturing their creativity and raising their son within these walls, the Kormans find themselves drawn back to their downtown roots. They bid farewell to the home where they hosted memorable concerts and events, where Idith commissioned and designed concerts, and where she rehearsed the concerto of the 18th-century composer Marianna Martines and a prelude by the Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho.

“Our careers blossomed, our child grew up, we had wonderful concerts and events in the living room,” reflects Idith. “It is an inspiring place.”

Today, the penthouse at 257 West 86th Street awaits a new chapter, an artistic soul who will embrace its legacy and find inspiration within its walls. As Lisa Lippman, the Brown Harris Stevens broker entrusted with the sale of this extraordinary property, aptly puts it, “It has a kind of artist’s glamour to it.”

With its proximity to Riverside Park, the cultural offerings of Lincoln Center, and the culinary delights of Barney Greengrass and AMC 84th Street, this penthouse offers an unparalleled blend of artistic inspiration and urban convenience.

Those who seek a sanctuary for their artistic pursuits, a space where creativity can flourish and dreams take flight, will find their muse within the walls of this extraordinary penthouse.