This $2.5M loft in a former East Village synagogue once belonged to photographer William Wegman

Now on the market for $2,500,000, this East Village loft at 431 East 6th Street is one of three in a building with a history that’s in keeping with its colorful downtown neighborhood. Available for the first time in 40 years, the apartment, belonging to model and interior designer Maria Von Hartz, represents the latest incarnation of what was once an abandoned synagogue. The building, which is a tenancy-in-common property, was purchased in the 1980s by a group of artists who transformed the abandoned house of worship into beautiful loft homes. Among these artist-owners was celebrated photographer William Wegman of whimsical Weimaraner fame.

Interiors in the charming third loft come courtesy of its current designer-owner. A recent gut renovation yielded a 21st-century refuge that also aims to reflect its pre-war character.

Remaining as highlights are original details like tin ceilings, decorative moldings, stained glass, hardwood floors–and a massive skylight for all-day sunshine. Contemporary enhancements include recessed lighting and modern light fixtures throughout, an in-unit washer/dryer, and split-system air conditioning.

The home’s striking interior, lit by ten windows on three exposures, is anchored by a lofty open living and dining area. A huge eat-in kitchen has an unusual–yet compelling–circular shape that emphasizes its nature as a gathering spot. Top-of-the-line appliances and plenty of storage maintain the kitchen’s functional edge.

A large primary bedroom comes with a large walk-in closet and views of the neighborhood’s treetops. Just outside the smaller second bedroom is a perfect-sized office nook.

The apartment’s bathrooms are a showcase of luxurious design; the primary bath has accented porcelain floors and a large spa-like shower. The secondary bath has a clean, white-tiled design.

This investor-friendly tenancy-in-common building presents a unique structure with more flexible building rules–and a possible future condo conversion. As such, it requires a cash-only purchase and a waiver of right of first refusal is issued for the purchase. Co-purchasing, pieds-a-terre, and short-term rentals within city guidelines are all allowed.

[Listing details: 431 East 6th Street, #3 at CityRealty]

[At Sotheby’s International Realty-East Side Manhattan Brokerage by Kristi Ambrosetti]

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• For $30K/month, you can live in this converted East Village synagogue

Photo credit: Rachel Kuzma for Sotheby’s International Realty