Roy Lichtenstein Artist Private Residence and Foundation in Greenwich Village

The Roy Lichtenstein Artist Private Residence and Foundation, nestled in the historic Greenwich Village of New York City, is an architectural masterpiece completed in 2013. Designed by CALIPER ARCHITECTURE, with landscape architecture by VertNY and construction by Riverside Builders, this project pays homage to the iconic artist’s legacy while seamlessly integrating modern design elements.

Project Partners

Caliper Architecture

Caliper Architecture is a distinguished architectural firm known for its innovative and sustainable design solutions. Caliper Architecture specializes in a diverse range of projects across residential, commercial, institutional, and cultural sectors. The firm is committed to creating thoughtful and

Riverside Builders

Riverside Builders is a reputable construction management and general contracting firm. With a strong commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, Riverside Builders specializes in a diverse range of projects across residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial sectors.

Used in this project

Black Locust Decking

Project Details

• Project Name: Roy Lichtenstein Artist Private Residence and Foundation
• Location: Greenwich Village, New York, USA
• Year: 2013
• Architect: CALIPER ARCHITECTURE
• Landscape Architect: VertNY
• Contractor: Riverside Builders

Products Used: Sawtooth walkway

Press and Additional Resources

• Dezeen Article on the Roy Lichtenstein Residence
• Caliper Studio Project Page

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The Roy Lichtenstein Artist Private Residence and Foundation in Greenwich Village, New York City, completed in 2013, represents a rare intersection of art, architecture, and landscape design. Conceived by CALIPER ARCHITECTURE with landscape architecture by VertNY and construction carried out by Riverside Builders, the project honors the iconic pop artist’s legacy while creating a contemporary residential and institutional environment that is both highly functional and deeply symbolic. Nestled in one of Manhattan’s most historically rich neighborhoods, the residence and foundation embody the boldness, playfulness, and modernist clarity that defined Roy Lichtenstein’s work, while simultaneously setting a standard for sustainable building practices. A central element of this project is the extensive use of Black Locust Lumber, a material that has steadily gained recognition for its environmental benefits, structural resilience, and natural beauty. Known scientifically as Robinia pseudoacacia, black locust wood is one of the hardest and most rot-resistant domestic hardwoods available in North America. Traditionally, architects and builders relied on tropical hardwoods such as ipe or teak for outdoor applications, but rising ecological concerns and unsustainable logging practices have made alternatives increasingly important. In this context, black locust lumber emerged as the natural choice for the Lichtenstein Residence and Foundation, offering durability and longevity without sacrificing sustainability. The residence features a remarkable sawtooth boardwalk, designed to guide movement through the outdoor spaces while also functioning as a sculptural design feature. Fabricated entirely from black locust wood, the boardwalk’s geometric pattern references Lichtenstein’s artistic language of sharp lines, repeating motifs, and dynamic forms. Its angular design transforms a simple walkway into an architectural element that mirrors the visual rhythm and graphic precision that were hallmarks of the artist’s career. Beyond aesthetics, the decision to use Black Locust Lumber underscores a broader shift in modern architecture toward eco-conscious material choices. Black locust wood prices, while reflecting the increasing demand for this sustainable hardwood, are offset by its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike many conventional decking and boardwalk materials that require chemical treatment, staining, or replacement after exposure to the elements, black locust naturally resists decay, pests, and moisture. This makes it a cost-effective solution over time, especially in projects where both environmental responsibility and long-term value are priorities. For the Lichtenstein Residence, this meant creating a landscape intervention that would endure as a lasting tribute, requiring little upkeep while preserving its natural beauty. The boardwalk and decking supplied by Black Locust Lumber complement the residence’s architectural vocabulary of clean lines and modernist detailing. At the same time, they root the project in a conversation about material ethics: how design choices can minimize environmental impact while still achieving artistic and structural excellence. For Greenwich Village, a neighborhood defined by its layered history of artistry, counterculture, and progressive ideals, the use of a homegrown sustainable hardwood like black locust feels particularly appropriate. More than just a home and foundation, the Roy Lichtenstein Residence has become a case study in how black locust lumber can be successfully integrated into high-profile architectural projects. Its use demonstrates how environmentally responsible materials are no longer compromises but enhancements—elevating not just the sustainability of a project but also its aesthetic and symbolic power. In a cultural climate where architects and designers are rethinking how they source and specify materials, the foundation’s choice of black locust positions it at the forefront of a new movement in sustainable architecture. Ultimately, this project stands as both a functional residence and an enduring monument to creativity. It fuses the artistic vision of Roy Lichtenstein with architectural ingenuity, landscape sensitivity, and ecological awareness. The integration of black locust wood is not merely a material decision but a narrative choice—bridging the past with the future, honoring the artist’s playful geometry while reinforcing the urgent necessity of sustainable building practices.