The façade of this townhouse on Greenwich just below Gansevoort may look like a Richard Serra, but is actually a design of architect Matthew Baird. Built just a few years ago in 2005, the 34 x 14 ft slab of Cor-ten steel was an homage to the artist. The bulky front is contrasted by the fully glazed rear of the townhouse, with amply skylights coming from the roof which both fill the home with natural light.

Many neighbors have criticized Baird’s use of raw steel, which was meant to naturally weather over time. Once a popular trend in architecture in the 1960s, the modern building was up for review by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, and was approved to the dismay of haters. Who else in New York can say that the part of the George Washington Bridge had to be shut down to bring a part of their home into Manhattan?

Who: Matthew Baird

What: Richard Serra Inspired Townhouse

Where: 829 Greenwich Street