Ahmet and Mica Ertegun, a couple whose lives resemble a comet streaking across the New York sky, leaving a trail of brilliance in their wake, have crafted a home that reflects their dynamism and cosmopolitan spirit. Their house, like them, possesses an undeniable magnetism, blending a stark, sleek modernity with a touch of grace that hints at adventure. It’s a space that speaks volumes about its owners, much like their lives themselves.
The Erteguns embody the ideal of the New American, drawing inspiration from global experiences while remaining deeply rooted in their New York context. This duality is evident in their home, a traditional East Side brownstone transformed into a haven of modern design. Light pours in through skylights, illuminating sculpted concrete curves and windows that span two floors, creating a sensation of freefall. The house’s architecture is a testament to their shared appreciation for modern art, with their collection, boasting works by Magritte, Rothko, Youngerman, and Ellsworth Kelly, finding a natural home within its walls. “The house influenced my whole outlook on painting,” Mica Ertegun shared, “I started going to galleries and collecting because of necessity—all those white walls! Now it is a major passion.” Her eye for color and form translates seamlessly into her interior design business, “Mac II,” which she runs with her close friend William (Chessy) Rayner.
Ahmet Ertegun, the President of Atlantic Recording Corporation, is a man of boundless energy and sharp wit, constantly on the move in his pursuit of new talent and sounds. His passion for backgammon, a game typically associated with leisure, is another testament to his multifaceted nature. “He’s a perfectionist propelled by ambition,” one friend described him. And it’s Mica who ensures that his home life is equally polished, providing a haven for him to escape the demands of his career.
The Erteguns’ lives are a blend of contrasting worlds – the world of music and the world of art, design, and personal pursuits. “In one way I lead a double life,” Mica confessed. “Ahmet can forget his work when he comes home, and does. But we do go to recording sessions all the time, to concerts in New York and in California, and we have musicians and managers here often. But I don’t move in that world of music and my role, really, is to stay in the background.”
Despite her quiet demeanor, Mica possesses a sly sense of humor and a refreshingly honest outlook. Her childhood in Romania, a country she holds dear despite its challenges, has instilled in her an appreciation for the present moment. “Why imitate when now is new?” she asked. This sentiment is reflected in the bold architectural choices she made for her home, embracing the innovative vision of architect Joseph G. Merz. The result is a house that speaks to the spirit of New York City, a testament to her desire to create a space that reflects her own evolution and celebrates the beauty of the here and now. “In ten years’ time I may want a totally different house. Who knows? But this is what I want for my life now—a way of life that has more to say to me than anything that has ever gone before.”
The Erteguns’ home is more than just a collection of beautiful objects; it’s a tangible reflection of their individual journeys, their shared passions, and their commitment to living a life that embraces change, embraces the new, and embraces the present moment.
