When Ellen Barkin purchased her Greenwich Village townhouse nearly two decades ago, she unknowingly became the custodian of one of New York’s most artful homes. Built in the 1840s and expanded by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Greek Revival townhouse at 153 West 12th Street has returned to the market with a new $23 million price tag, representing the perfect harmony between history, architecture, and creative reinvention.
After her divorce from financier Ronald O. Perelman in 2006, Barkin paid $7.5 million for the residence, making it her private retreat for almost twenty years. In early 2023, the property was sold to husband-and-wife developers Sven and Sara Simon of dasCasa for $11 million. The couple embarked on a meticulous renovation that enhanced the original architectural features while introducing a modern and vibrant interior aesthetic. Now, under the representation of listing agents Christian Rogers, Matthew Wojnarowicz, and Eileen McGill of Howard Hanna Elegran, the townhouse stands as one of the most distinguished homes for sale in Manhattan’s luxury real estate market.
A Legacy of Greek Revival Brilliance
The five-story, 4,500-square-foot townhouse is a showcase of architectural continuity. The red-brick façade and 21-foot frontage evoke the classic grace of 19th-century Greenwich Village, while I.M. Pei’s 20-foot parlor extension adds a touch of sculptural modernism that makes the home truly unique.
Inside, the sense of craftsmanship is evident from the moment one steps through the door. The first floor begins with a welcoming hallway that leads past a guest bedroom and bath into a kitchen framed by exposed wood beams. This space is fitted with dark green cabinetry, a large eat-in island, and high-end appliances from Bertazzoni and Sub-Zero. A butler’s pantry and breakfast nook offer additional charm, blending practical design with sophisticated comfort.
At the rear, a rosy-colored media room opens directly to a landscaped patio equipped with an outdoor kitchen. Beyond the patio, a lush garden unfolds—a serene escape in the middle of Manhattan. The relationship between these indoor and outdoor spaces reflects Pei’s architectural belief that light, color, and geometry should work together to create emotional resonance.
The Heart of Modern Elegance
On the second level, the home embraces a more formal rhythm. Two living rooms are anchored by decorative fireplaces that frame the room in symmetry and warmth. A wood-paneled dining room with a wet bar opens through French doors to a terrace finished with black-and-white tiles, seamlessly connecting the indoor dining experience to the greenery below.
This floor embodies the home’s spirit: a place where contemporary design meets historical charm. Every detail feels intentional, from the fluted fireplace mantels to the use of bold hues that reflect the Simons’ creative approach. According to the listing team, the renovation focused on preserving the townhouse’s historical integrity while transforming it into a work of modern artistry—a living gallery for light and texture.
The Primary Suite and Private Retreats
The entire third floor serves as the primary suite, a calm and private retreat that balances luxury with intimacy. A fireplace creates a warm focal point, while French doors open to a private terrace overlooking the garden. The marble-clad bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub and double vanities, adding a spa-like serenity. A custom dressing room, lined with rich wood cabinetry, completes the picture of effortless sophistication.
The upper floors continue to impress with two additional bedrooms, each with their own en-suite baths and walk-in closets. A fourth room currently serves as a home office, ideal for quiet reflection or creative work. Every inch of the home has been curated to convey an atmosphere of refinement, where architecture and comfort coexist in harmony.
A Rooftop Haven Above the Village
Rising above it all is a skylit staircase that leads to a rooftop deck, complete with a bar and sweeping city views. This private outdoor haven offers a moment of calm above the energy of Manhattan, the kind of space that defines true luxury living in New York. The basement level, partially finished, includes a laundry room, storage area, and a flexible space suitable for wellness, entertainment, or a private studio.
The overall composition of the home reflects a commitment to proportion, material honesty, and the beauty of daily life. Every floor, every detail feels as though it has been considered through the lens of artistry rather than trend.
Greenwich Village: The Perfect Setting
Located in one of Manhattan’s most beloved neighborhoods, 153 West 12th Street sits among tree-lined blocks that capture the essence of Greenwich Village. Just steps from Washington Square Park, the Whitney Museum, and the vibrant restaurants and boutiques of Bleecker Street, the home offers a lifestyle that blends cultural sophistication with urban charm.
The neighborhood’s deep artistic history and timeless character make it the ideal backdrop for a residence of such pedigree. Here, classic architecture and creative energy have always intertwined, and this townhouse continues that legacy.
A Rare Opportunity in Manhattan Real Estate
With its combination of celebrity provenance, architectural history, and contemporary redesign, Ellen Barkin’s former townhouse represents a rare opportunity in the New York real estate market. The thoughtful renovation by Sven and Sara Simon has redefined the home’s identity, transforming it from a Greek Revival relic into a vibrant, design-forward sanctuary.
As the agents note, this property is more than a home—it’s a statement of New York artistry and resilience. Every feature, from the I.M. Pei-designed parlor extension to the hand-selected finishes, tells a story of reinvention. At $23 million, it stands as one of the most remarkable townhouses currently available in Manhattan, offering a world-class living experience within one of the city’s most storied districts.