The O'Neill Building at 655 Sixth Ave. 2E

Residence 2E at 655 Sixth Avenue is a home where New York’s past and present meet in a way that feels remarkably effortless.

Defined by soaring 13’ 8" ceilings and an extraordinary arched window that anchors the main living space, this loft-like residence is filled with volume, natural light, and architectural character. Bright exposures invite sunlight throughout the day, while open neighborhood views create a constant connection to the energy of Chelsea and Flatiron below.

The scale is immediately striking, but it’s the feeling of the home that lingers. The dramatic proportions create a sense of openness rarely found in Manhattan, while the warmth of the light makes the space feel equally suited for quiet mornings as it is for evenings spent entertaining.

Originally constructed as the headquarters of one of New York’s pioneering women’s retailers, the building itself reflects a pivotal chapter in the city’s history. It was built during an era when women were increasingly entering the workforce, advocating for the right to vote, and redefining what independence looked like. In many ways, these walls have witnessed more than architectural evolution, they’ve stood alongside the evolution of opportunity itself.

That sense of transformation continues to define the neighborhood today. Looking out from the arched window, you’ll find yourself across from the former Limelight, whose illuminated Gothic architecture once served as the backdrop to one of New York’s most iconic nightlife eras. Like so many of the city’s great landmarks, it has continually reinvented itself while preserving the character that made it unforgettable.

Homes like Residence 2E remind us that the places we choose matter. They shape our routines, inspire our ambitions, and quietly become part of our own story. Here, historic architecture, exceptional scale, and abundant natural light come together to create something increasingly rare in Manhattan; a home with both presence and purpose.

(Assessment of $385.38 on going)