The historic home of iconic artist Robert Rauschenberg in New York is up for sale, with plans to transform it into luxury rentals or boutique condominiums. The five-story townhouse has been a cornerstone of artistic and engineering collaborations since 1965, hosting lively gatherings where artists like Mel Bochner and Brice Marden would bunk down.

Now, as the building faces potential redevelopment due to an adjacent project, the Rauschenberg Foundation is exploring options. The property’s unique location in a bustling neighbourhood, close to NYU and Cooper Union, makes it a prime candidate for upscale conversion. However, the foundation remains concerned about the impact on its operations.

The house has a rich history, originally built as a family home in the 19th century before being converted into an orphanage for newsboys. It later became Rauschenberg’s studio and residence until he moved to Florida in 1970, after which it continued as his base in New York.

While the foundation may face challenges with its real estate holdings—having already sold a significant property on Captiva Island—it is now considering whether repurposing the townhouse could provide new income streams. The air rights over the property also offer potential for expansion, making it an attractive proposition for developers despite preservationists’ concerns.