A New Chapter for an 1899 Rowhouse: Modern Living in a Historic Home
Transforming a historic home in New York City is always a balancing act between honoring the past and embracing the present. In the heart of Prospect Lefferts Garden, we recently completed a project that perfectly illustrates this challenge—and the exciting possibilities it holds. Our client’s beautiful 1899 limestone rowhouse, situated in a landmarked district, needed to evolve for modern family living while preserving the architectural character that makes these homes so special.
This project wasn’t just about updating finishes and it wasn’t about adding square footage. It was about reimagining how a historic home can support a contemporary lifestyle—without losing its soul. From navigating the rigorous approval process with the Landmarks Preservation Commission to integrating innovative design solutions that respect the building’s legacy, every step required creativity, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for both history and modernity. The owners came to us as, in their words “both a family and stewards of this historic property.”
If you’re a homeowner who loves the charm of a historic property but dreams of modern comfort and functionality, this story is for you. Read on to discover how thoughtful design can transform not just a space, but the way you live in it.
Project Context and Client Goals
The starting point for this transformation was a well-maintained single-family limestone rowhouse, built in 1899 and located within the Prospect Lefferts Garden Historic District. The home’s historic significance and original details—intricate wood trims and classic proportions—set a high bar for any renovation, demanding both respect and ingenuity.
The clients, a modern family with middle school-aged children, came to the project with clear priorities. They wanted a home that would fit their lifestyle: equal-sized bedrooms tailored to each child’s preferences, modern bathrooms, custom storage, and the convenience of laundry on the same floor as the bedrooms. Their vision was to enjoy all the comforts and efficiencies of contemporary living without sacrificing the warmth, craftsmanship, and character that make their historic home so beloved.
Achieving this balance required a thoughtful approach. We designed changes to the rear façade that respected historic precedent, and made it a priority to preserve or recreate many of the original wood trims and details throughout the house. In one notable instance, we integrated new, modern millwork with salvaged woodwork, creating a seamless transition between old and new. This careful blend of preservation and innovation set the tone for the entire project, ensuring that every update honored both the home’s past and the family’s future needs.
Navigating Design Challenges in a Landmark Context
Working within a historic district like Prospect Lefferts Garden means navigating a complex set of regulations and approvals designed to protect the neighborhood’s architectural heritage. One of the most significant challenges in this project was the need to alter the windows on the rear façade’s top floor. Such changes requires a full public hearing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). Though many New Yorkers mistakenly believe that the rear of the home doesn’t require a hearing, changes to openings at the top level do. The Community Board (CB 9) lent their support to the project before it wen to the LPC.
To address these considerations, we approached the design revisions with respect for the original historic aesthetic. Each change was carefully considered to ensure it complemented the existing structure rather than detracted from it. Our goal was to create a modern, functional home without compromising the building’s historic integrity.
During construction, we also encountered an unexpected discovery: the presence of at least two previously installed ceilings. This revelation meant that once the renovation was complete, the new ceilings were approximately 16 inches higher than before—despite the addition of dense, high-performance insulation. Far from being a setback, this surprise became a welcomed enhancement, dramatically improving the sense of space and light throughout the home.
By thoughtfully navigating regulatory requirements and embracing unforeseen opportunities, we turned challenges into defining features of the project—proving that historic preservation and modern innovation can coexist beautifully.
Innovative Approaches and Materials
Blending modern living with historic character requires both sensitivity and creativity. For this project, our approach was to honor the craftsmanship of the past while introducing clean, contemporary elements that enhance daily life.
Wherever possible, we reused, restored, or recreated the original woodworking and trim, preserving the unique details that give the home its character. When new millwork was needed, we kept the design intentionally simple and streamlined, ensuring it complemented rather than competed with the traditional elements. This created a harmonious dialogue between old and new throughout the house.
We also used the home’s layout to create distinct zones of character and function. Doorways became subtle transitions: the common hallways retained the most traditional woodwork, while the bathrooms and kids’ rooms featured more modern finishes and custom millwork. In the primary suite, we artfully integrated both modern and historic elements, demonstrating how these two aesthetics can coexist in a single, cohesive space.
Sustainability was another cornerstone of our approach. Although the installation of a new, energy-efficient electrical HVAC system was planned for a future phase, we designed the renovation to fully support it. This included installing extremely efficient insulation in the walls and roof, as well as providing the necessary structural support, chases, and plumbing for the eventual equipment. These upgrades not only improve comfort and energy efficiency today but also ensure the home is ready for further sustainable enhancements in the future.
The Collaborative Process
A successful renovation of a historic home hinges on thoughtful collaboration—a principle that guided every step of this project. From the outset, our process was designed to be open and inclusive, ensuring the clients felt empowered and informed as their vision took shape. Multiple design meetings and discussions allowed us to clarify priorities and explore options together, using a mix of 2D renderings, 3D models, and curated product images to bring ideas to life.
We also held some design meetings within the space under construction, helping the clients visualize how proposed changes would feel in context. This hands-on approach not only fostered trust but also made complex decisions more accessible and less daunting. By prioritizing clear communication and transparency, we ensured that the clients were comfortable and confident at each stage.
This collaborative spirit extended beyond the design phase. As experts in historic renovations know, working closely with clients, contractors, and review boards is essential for balancing preservation with livability. The end result was a process that was as rewarding as the finished project itself—one in which the homeowners felt truly heard and delighted with the outcome.
Impact and Results
The completed renovation fulfilled the client’s goals—demonstrating how thoughtful design can transform a historic property into a home tailored to modern living.
Each child now enjoys an equally sized bedroom, customized with their chosen colors, millwork, and hardware, ensuring both fairness and individuality. The primary bathroom has become a retreat for the owners, offering a spa-like atmosphere for relaxation. Laundry is now conveniently located on the same floor as the bedrooms, streamlining daily routines. Thanks to the newly discovered ceiling heights and expertly installed insulation, the top level of the home is noticeably quieter and more comfortable, regardless of the season.
The response from the broader community and preservationists has been very positive. The Landmarks Preservation Commission commented on the reasonable, respectful design revisions and the owners' efforts to integrate modern needs with historic sensibilities.
Measurable benefits abound: improved family functionality, increased comfort and energy efficiency, and likely a boost in property value. Most importantly, the homeowners are thrilled with their revitalized space—a testament to the power of collaboration, expertise, and respect for both past and present.
What sets this project apart, and what distinguishes our approach to working with historic NYC properties, is a deep familiarity with both the design and regulatory landscapes. With over 15 years of experience designing projects that require hearings of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), we understand how to bridge the gap between the commission’s preservation requirements and the unique needs of homeowners. This regular engagement with LPC hearings has honed our sensitivity to working within an existing historic fabric, allowing us to introduce new ideas that are both innovative and respectful.
By blending the clean lines and open spaces favored in modern living with the intricate, traditional woodwork and structure of the original home, we were able to highlight the strengths of both eras. For instance, the original roof framing allowed us to achieve higher ceilings once modern insulation was installed, and the integration of original crowns and trim into new hallway millwork interventions created a seamless transition between old and new. These solutions preserved and enhanced the home’s character but also improved its livability for today’s family.
For homeowners considering a similar project, our advice is simple: don’t be afraid of working with the LPC. With the right architect, you can achieve your goals while meeting all preservation requirements. Seamless integration should always be the goal—ensuring that modern updates enhance, rather than overshadow, the historic charm that makes these homes so special.
This Prospect Lefferts Garden rowhouse transformation stands as a testament to what’s possible when thoughtful design, collaborative spirit, and deep respect for history come together. By blending modern comfort with historic character, we created a home that not only meets the needs of a contemporary family but also honors the legacy of its architecture and neighborhood.
If you’re inspired by the idea of transforming your own historic property—or if you’re curious about what’s possible within the guidelines of New York City’s landmark districts—we invite you to reach out. With the right expertise and a collaborative approach, your dream home can respect the past while embracing the future.
Contact us today to start a conversation about your project, or share this story with others who appreciate the unique beauty of modern design within historic spaces. We look forward to helping you write the next chapter in your home’s history.
