This Italianate-style landmarked West Village rowhouse was built by WC Rhinelander in 1851, together with its adjacent mirrored-twin. The building suffered extensive and damaging changes since its construction, including the addition of a fire escape to its street facing façade, the application of parging and blue paint to the exquisite brickwork, and the removal of the front stoop and period windows. The double-hung windows were one of the most notable elements of the face, having a vertical mullion mimicking casement-type windows and giving it a particular Italianate quality. Complicated from the outset, this restoration was made possible because of the patience and vision of one of ACHA’s long-time clients.

The work entailed the removal of the front fire escape (requiring a change in egress), parging, and paint removal to reveal the original brick façade from the early 1840s. Non-invasive walls were added to the interior stair making the building compliant with Building Department egress requirements and maintaining its multi-family occupancy. The façade’s brick was revealed under layers of paint and plaster, much of it damaged by water, and painstakingly restored. The non-conforming windows were replaced with contemporary double glazed and thermally broken windows, following the original glazing profiles and dividers. The façade is illuminated by discreet LED light fixtures.

As this was a substantial restoration, ACHA worked closely with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, presenting the proposed restoration design to both its board of commissioners as well as the local community board.