THE TOWNHOUSE
A Manhattan Landmark and Artistic Legacy
Tucked amidst the elegance of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the townhouse at East 80th Street is a jewel of New York’s architectural and cultural history. This stately Beaux-Arts residence is a testament to its era's opulence and craftsmanship. The house was commissioned by "five-and-dime king" F.W. Woolworth as a gift for his youngest daughter, Jessie Woolworth Donohue. It was designed by legendary architect C.P.H. Gilbert and built in 1915-16. Frederick Koch acquired the property in 1986 and began a decade-long conservation and restoration of the mansion. Its rooms are perfectly proportioned for intimate chamber music performances, and are also the repository of beautiful works from the late Mr. Koch's extensive collections of fine and decorative art, rare books, and other treasures. The home's graceful façade and meticulously designed interiors exude timeless sophistication, providing a distinguished presence in one of New York City's most iconic neighborhoods.
For decades, this townhouse was owned by Frederick R. Koch, the celebrated collector and philanthropist renowned for his unwavering dedication to the arts and cultural preservation. Known for his passion for literature, music, and fine art, Mr. Koch transformed the home into a sanctuary of creativity and an archive of extraordinary cultural artifacts. Upon his passing, he entrusted this magnificent property to his Foundation, ensuring its legacy as a space devoted to artistic excellence and innovation.
Today, the Townhouse serves as a vibrant hub for artists, writers, and thinkers, echoing Koch’s lifelong commitment to nurturing creativity. The townhouse’s elegant rooms offer an inspiring backdrop for artistic residencies, intimate performances, and cultural exchanges.
The Townhouse at East 80th Street is more than just a building—it is a living embodiment of Frederick R. Koch’s vision to celebrate and advance the arts. Its legacy endures as a place where history, creativity, and innovation converge, enriching the broader cultural landscape of New York City.
THE TOWNHOUSE SERIES
The Townhouse Series is a set of filmed concerts curated by Daniel Schlosberg, filmed at The Townhouse with programs spanning from the baroque era to present day. Each program also includes an informal “Vignette” profile of the artists, including interviews with each.
CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTER
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center presented a series of eight free, digital performances, produced and directed by Art Docs, with the generous support of The FRK Foundation, at The Frederick R. Koch Townhouse, a historic property built by F.W. Woolworth. The concerts honor the late Frederick R. Koch’s life-long dedication to generously supporting the visual and performing arts.
THE SCHUBERT SERIES
The FRK Foundation proudly presents The Schubert Series, a digital concert series curated by world-renowned pianist Adam Golka. The series showcases three compositions of Schubert's best-known works performed by Mr. Golka, pianist Yannick Rafalin, and violinist Itamar Zorman. The Schubert Series was recorded at the FRK Foundation's historic townhouse on East 80th Street.
The Foundation's YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook sites offer a variety of performances presented for public education and enjoyment. The performance, recording, and sharing of these performances honors and perpetuates Mr. Koch's life-long dedication to generously supporting all forms of artistic expression.
