Aby Rosen

Full bio below:

Aby Rosen is a German-American real estate developer and esteemed art collector renowned for his transformative impact on urban architecture and his significant contributions to the contemporary art scene.

Early Life and Education

Born on May 16, 1960, in Frankfurt, West Germany, Rosen is the son of Jewish Holocaust survivors. His mother, Anni, survived the war by hiding in a Belgian farmhouse, while his father, Isak, endured imprisonment in concentration camps in Germany and occupied Poland. After the war, Anni became a painter, and Isak pursued a career in real estate development. Rosen attended Goethe University Frankfurt, where he earned a business degree. In 1987, he relocated to New York City to embark on a career in real estate.

Real Estate Career

In 1991, Rosen co-founded RFR Holding LLC with his childhood friend Michael Fuchs. The firm specializes in acquiring and revitalizing architecturally significant properties. Notable holdings include the Seagram Building and Lever House in New York City, both iconic examples of modernist architecture. RFR's portfolio extends to cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and Tel Aviv, encompassing properties such as the W South Beach, The Jaffa Tel Aviv, and the Gramercy Park Hotel.

Art Collection and Patronage

Rosen is a prominent collector of modern and contemporary art, owning over 800 postwar pieces, including more than 100 works by Andy Warhol. His collection also features pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Alexander Calder, Damien Hirst, Richard Prince, and Jeff Koons.

In 2003, Rosen established the Lever House Art Collection, commissioning site-specific works for display in the Lever House lobby. Curated by art historian Richard Marshall, the collection has showcased works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and Tom Sachs.

Personal Life

Rosen is married to Dr. Samantha Boardman, a psychiatrist and socialite. The couple resides on Manhattan's Upper East Side and has two children. Rosen's commitment to integrating art and architecture continues to influence the cultural landscape of the cities where he develops properties.

Through his visionary approach to real estate and his dedication to the arts, Aby Rosen has left an indelible mark on the urban and cultural fabric of multiple cities.