Once home to urban shaman Donna Henes and her partner, renowned photography curator Daile Kaplan, this residence served as both a private sanctuary and a creative haven.
Encompassing 3,150 square feet with three bedrooms and four bathrooms, the home reflects the deeply intentional lifestyles of two women who shaped their respective fields.
Henes—celebrated for her nature-based rituals and cosmic ceremonies—passed away in September 2024 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual artistry and civic ritual.
Kaplan, a leading authority on photographic art, continues to curate and appraise works of global significance and now offers this extraordinary home to its next visionary steward.
Spiritual Energy and Supernatural Elements
This penthouse carries an intangible presence that reflects the deep-rooted spiritual work of its former owner, Donna Henes.
Known for her seasonal ceremonies and cosmic rituals, Henes infused the space with symbolism and sacred intention.
Nine skylights echo her sky-watching philosophy, creating a direct connection to the cosmos above.
The loft’s layout, bathed in natural light and lined with archways, encourages reflection and ritual.
Every corner hums with the energy of transformation, as if the home itself remembers the ceremonies once held within.
Historic Provenance with Artistic Roots
Originally constructed in 1895 to address overcrowding during Brooklyn’s population boom, the building once served the community as a public school.
Nearly a century later, local artists converted the Renaissance Revival structure into residential lofts, preserving its commanding architecture and creative energy.
Designed by James W. Naughton, the structure blends Romanesque and Renaissance Revival influences and sits prominently at the corner of Sterling Place and Vanderbilt Avenue.
Historic Charm with Modern Touches
Exposed brick archways, dual wood-burning fireplaces, and rich hardwood floors celebrate the home’s 19th-century roots with timeless authenticity and character.
These original elements contrast beautifully with contemporary finishes, grounding the flexible living spaces in warmth and texture.
Towering 14-foot vaulted ceilings amplify the interiors with rare vertical drama, inviting light, and limitless design potential.
Expansive Terraces with Open City Views
The home includes two private terraces with uninterrupted skyline views—ideal for morning coffee, urban gardening, or moonlit gatherings.
Each outdoor area connects seamlessly to the interior, enhancing the flow of daily life.
These elevated extensions bring tranquility to the city below.
Private Parking
Private gated parking accompanies the residence—an invaluable convenience in the heart of Prospect Heights.
This secure space adds practicality to a lifestyle centered on ease, access, and peace of mind.
In a neighborhood known for limited parking, this amenity stands out.
Layout Designed for Adaptability and Creativity
Currently arranged as a three-bedroom, four-bathroom home, the loft’s generous proportions allow for complete customization.
Soaring ceilings and fluid living zones invite artistic vision and personal reinvention.
Whether imagined as a live/work retreat or showpiece residence, the possibilities are endless.
Lush Communal Garden and Strong Community Vibe
Beyond the private spaces, residents enjoy access to a beautifully maintained communal garden—rare greenery in the urban core.
The building’s creative lineage fosters a sense of warmth and shared inspiration.
A visiting superintendent and neighborly ambiance make for an exceptionally grounded lifestyle.
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This grand Renaissance Revival building rises with ornate brickwork and stately towers—once a schoolhouse, now transformed into refined residential elegance.
Architects designed this corner landmark with symmetry and grace, where bold windows and historic details create a commanding presence in Prospect Heights.
An arched stone entrance greets visitors with historic charm, featuring sculpted columns and a gate that honors the building’s scholastic origins.
The private terrace provides a peaceful perch above the city, enclosed by classic brick and styled with comfortable, modern outdoor furniture.
Elegant Interiors
A warm console and wall art bring texture to this hallway, while a glimpse of the dining space adds architectural rhythm.
Skylights pour natural brightness over plush seating, as curved walls and brick arches shape this living space with artistic flow.
Soft furnishings and vintage arches blend seamlessly, while leafy accents and layered textures make this room feel effortlessly collected and stylish.
An arched hallway reveals clean lines and built-in cabinetry, guiding the way toward a sunlit kitchen and terrace beyond.
Exposed brick and modern curves meet in this open layout, as design elements strike a perfect balance between simplicity and soul.
The fireplace anchors a cozy seating area under dramatic brick arches, while abstract art adds a bold modern accent to the scene.
A wide dining table anchors this corner beneath vaulted ceilings, surrounded by views of the city skyline and timeless design elements.
Towering windows frame a sculptural dining space, where exposed brick and curved ceilings create an inviting atmosphere for intimate meals and conversation.
An arched passage opens into a light-filled living room, where natural wood and brick textures balance warmth with refined, airy openness.
The kitchen opens to a private terrace through an arched glass door, blending charm and function with sleek counters and garden views.
A playful nursery nestles under a brick archway, where soft textiles and a whimsical giraffe bring imagination into this serene space.
Vaulted ceilings and exposed brick set the stage for a calming bedroom retreat filled with soft tones, cozy seating, and warm textures.
Curved architecture leads into the dressing area, where natural wood accents and thoughtful styling enhance the bedroom’s peaceful, modern flow.
This spacious guest room embraces simplicity, with warm neutrals, soft lighting, and layered artful details across each thoughtfully styled surface.
A soaking tub rests beneath a sloped ceiling, surrounded by crisp white tile and simple decor that creates a spa-like escape.
The walk-in closet combines function and character, with custom cabinetry, exposed brick, and a cozy bench under the gentle slope of the ceiling.
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