White is the New Red at Sterile 250 East Houston
It took more than five months, but the makeover of 250 East Houston – formerly known as Red Square – is pretty much complete.
Literally whitewashed from its hue of masonry to a more sterile, Instagram-friendly white. Change here is top to bottom. The iconic Vladimir Lenin statue was previously relocated across the street, and the artsy feel is gone. Even the bizarro rooftop clock, designed by graphic designer Tibor Kalman, was erased last spring and later repainted.
It’s all part of the overall renovation plan implemented by the Dermot Company, which purchased the upscale residential complex for $100 million in 2016. Other modifications at 250 East Houston include the full entrance makeover and retail musical chairs – including a barbershop and yoga studio – all in an attempt to create a “more updated style and fit for the cool East Village neighborhood.”