Engine Company No.55 was designed by Napoleon LeBrun in 1887 during a boom for the architect, who was ultimately responsible for more than 40 New York firehouses throughout the late 19th century. This four-storey SoHo property remained in service with the FDNY until 1982. Forty years later, contemporary artist Daniel Arsham purchased it and transformed the interior into a home and creative studio.

Before listing the landmark building with Nick Gavin of Compass for $8.995 million, Arsham filled it with oversized artworks, furniture and objects from his personal collection. He retained the patterned brick façade and soaring beamed ceilings while painting the iron spiral staircase as a mint-green centrepiece. The Lafayette Street residence featured in a 2023 Architectural Digest home tour.

Inside, Arsham’s living spaces are arranged across three floors. Meanwhile, the ground level can function as a studio, gallery or garage — a rarity in Manhattan.