Former Home of Patti Smith & Robert Mapplethorpe To Become Condos

In the latest apparent triumph for the fans of gentrification, the Allerton Hotel on W. 22nd St. is rumored to have been sold to a developer for $17 million. It's not a very attractive building so of course the initial reports indicate that it will not be torn down.  Though few will miss the scuzzy crew that hangs out in front of the building, the Allerton is a unique Chelsea institution with it's own bohemian history. Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe lived in the Allerton briefly after a short stay in a loft on Delancey St. and before moving to the Chelsea. The Allerton is where Patti reportedly wrote "Sister Morphine."  (via blogchelsea)