206 East 13th Street | Block : 468 | Lot #12

Description & Building Alterations

Likely built as the first of a row of brownstone rowhouses that continued down the block to 220 East 13th Street, 206 East 13th Street is one of only four that survive and is the most intact of those four. Although the window lintels have been simplified, the attractive Italianate facade, with high parlor floor windows, raised-stoop and cornice all remain. The facade has been stuccoed and pained, but the proportions and original feeling are retained. It was likely constructed as a single family home and converted to apartments as the neighborhood changed.

Known for his experimental music and sought-after recording production skills, Todd Rundgren was one of the more notable residents of 206 East 13th Street, moving here in 1972. Rundgren is known not only for his successful solo musical career, but for producing albums like the New York Dolls’ self-titled debut in 1973, Hall & Oates’s War Babies in 1974, Meat Loaf’s Bat Out of Hell in 1977, and XTC’s Skylarking in 1986. In 1972 Rundgren also released his hit song, “Hello It’s Me,” the tune that some would say sparked his success as a solo musician. This song was a part of the album Something/Anything, which featured other big hits that defined his career.

Block : 468 / Lot : 012 / Building Date : 1854 / Original Owner : Thomas Ritter / Original Use : Residential / Original Architect : Unknown