Nosy Neighbor: Why Is 15 Warren Painted That Way?

13 WarrenHave you seen 15 Warren? It has a number painted on each floor and “top” on the roof. Any idea why? —A.

The Department of Buildings website shows that the building is being converted to residential use, and that the owner—the color of the paint being used was a clue—is none other than Dr. Michel Cohen of Tribeca Pediatrics and Saleya restaurant on W. Broadway. I emailed him to find out if the choice was aesthetic. His reply: “This is my attempt at being Banksy. Purely having fun.” (That he’s European explains the “1” on what Americans call the second floor.) The storefront, formerly home to World of Suits, will get an “all-glass facade.”

UPDATE: In a subsequent email, Cohen said the paint job is staying “until I find another inspiration.”

Thanks to Jim V., who also found the paint job noteworthy, for the smaller photo.

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1 Comment

  1. The paintwork on 15 Warren might be fun for the owner who obviously does not live near the building, as we do, and have to look at it every day !