In 1898 philanthropist and artist, most known for his portraiture, Abraham Archibald Anderson commissioned architect Charles A. Rich to build the Beaux Arts Studios.

Anderson’s ability to excel in multiple fields seem fitting as the building would bring together some of history’s most renowned artists.

He envisioned the building at the corner of 40th and 6th would unify the creative minds the city was breeding at the time.

The windows drenched in light offered a uniquely exclusive experience on an island known for small dark rooms.

Exceptional natural light, dreamy inspirational views in a central location that enjoyed the park and New York Public Library as a front yard.

Never before existed a location in Manhattan as such, designed specifically for all genre of artist. The 10 story building was completed in 1901 not just a residential and creative work space but also a place of great social gatherings. Revolutionary American modernist painter, Florine Stettheimer and portrait artist Dorothy Hart Drew took residence at Beaux Arts Studios, perhaps patrons of the members only women’s club that secretly resided in the building.

Visionary intellectuals would fill the rooms of 20 foot ceilings, industrial, and victorian features for years to come. German-American, J.C. Leyendecker, distinguished illustrator of 20th century America, made a home there.

An inspiration to later resident, illustrator and painter, Norman Rockwell. Luxembourgish-American artist most widely known as photographer, Edward Steichen, would make history in fashion photography produced inside those walls.

Among other legendary photographers that would create their greatest works under the northern lights of Bryant Park were Irving Penn, Bert Stern, and Tony Vaccaro. Painter Haskell Coffin lived in one of the apartments during his celebrated time illustrating for American magazines. Swiss-American surrealist painter, Kirk Seligmann occupied the Beaux Arts Studios as well. Leon Gordon, English-born playwright, actor and director, lived on the 8th floor.

Interior designer, Thomas Bull, Norweigen-American, lodged on the 7th floor. French modernist painter who inspired pop art, Fernand Leger, moved in during 1940. Sculptor Jo Davidson also took residence in Anderson’s masterpiece. Definitive calypso jazz artist, Don Elliott, moved in during the 1970s turning his apartment into a recording studio. Frank Sinatra and Jimi Hendrix would later record hits in that same studio. In 1975 ambitious clothing designer Liz Claiborne would begin her fashion empire waking up in the building, further confirming the enriching power 80 West 40th street brought to the Garment District.

As if the building itself couldn’t help but cultivate icons, it still seems to be one of New York City’s best kept secrets.

The Beaux Arts Studios, known today as Bryant Park Studios, officially became a New York City landmark in 1988.