East Village Tenement Received $100,000 Paint Refresh
A landlord’s bold choice in Spring Lilac and Charmed Violet aims to brighten the neighborhood’s streets.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Interior Decorating
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In 2026, owner Antonio Echeverri invested more than $100,000 to repaint his six-story East Village tenement building. The historic site, located at Avenue B and East Fourth Street, now features vibrant exterior colors and gold-painted architectural details.
Why it matters
The project serves as a personal investment in the local urban aesthetic, aiming to evoke strong emotions and bring joy to passersby. This significant expenditure follows the building's previous paint updates in 2003 and 2012.
The six-story building, originally constructed in 1891, required a six-figure investment for its most recent refresh. This project stands in contrast to the property's 1992 purchase price of $450,000, despite the owner reportedly declining an $11 million offer to sell.
The players
Antonio Echeverri
The 79-year-old property owner who has lived in New York for 54 years and operates the tenement in the East Village.
Schneider & Herter
The historical architectural firm responsible for the 1891 construction of the six-story tenement building.
Benjamin Moore
The manufacturer of the paints selected for the project to achieve the building's specific color scheme.
The details
The owner chose Benjamin Moore colors, specifically shades of Spring Lilac and Charmed Violet, to represent a human palette. He added gold paint to decorative friezes and molded human faces integrated into the structure. These aesthetic choices reflect his personal goal of making the neighborhood smile.
Timeline
1891: The building was originally constructed by Schneider & Herter.
1992: Antonio Echeverri purchased the property.
2003: The building underwent a previous bright painting project.
2012: The building was painted again prior to the recent refresh.
2026: The most recent exterior paint job was completed.
The Home Front
This project highlights the ongoing tension between preserving the historical character of 19th-century tenements and modern aesthetic expression. It underscores how individual owners continue to impact the architectural identity of urban neighborhoods despite shifts in local market valuations.
When planning exterior updates for older structures, ensure you consult with professionals familiar with the specific masonry needs of your building's era to prevent moisture damage. Before starting large-scale cosmetic work, check if your property is located within a local historic district that may require specific color or material approvals.
The takeaway
Large-scale aesthetic projects can fundamentally change the curb appeal and character of a neighborhood tenement building. When considering a major exterior refresh, prioritize high-quality paint products suited for your climate and consult with an expert to protect your building's architectural details.
Further reading
For more inspiration on refreshing your own space, explore our guide to Interior Decorating.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The New York Times.
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Should property owners have complete freedom to choose the colors and decor of their building facades?
