The Unique History of NYC Homes
New York City is a bustling metropolis filled with history! From the oldest brick buildings to the glistening skyscrapers, this living chronicle can be seen and felt throughout the city in its neighborhoods, its architecture, and its diverse population.
Living within this tapestry of modern and historic buildings can be an interesting adventure, especially when you’re looking to renovate your home. New York City has over 3,469,240 housing units, 1,038,200 of which are owned rather than rented, and many of these residences were built before 1950. Renovating any home can be tricky, but when you factor in the age of a building, some remodels can quickly become an ever-growing headache. There are unique design and structural considerations that homeowners should take into account, especially when a building has been landmarked or set for preservation.
The Challenges of Renovating Older NYC Apartments
From mid-century co-ops in Manhattan to pre-war Brownstones in Brooklyn, Klein has worked on all types of older buildings throughout NYC. Our general manager, Ilan, has been at the forefront of it all.
“Renovating older apartments in New York City can be a challenge for the homeowner,” he says. “Sometimes it is difficult to see what you are getting into upfront, which is why having a contractor that you trust is so important.”
(Brownstones became popular during the industrial revolution, and were actually mostly inhabited by the middle class during this time. It wasn’t until 2012 when the Portland Brownstone Quarry closed down (which is where most of the stone that NYC brownstones are made of was from) that these homes became more valued and coveted. This style of building is a staple in NYC architecture, and some can now be sold for upwards of $2million!)
One of the biggest challenges in renovating older homes is the uncertainty of what’s behind the walls, under floors, or hidden in cabinets. Often, when renovations begin, issues such as deteriorating foundations, outdated plumbing, or compromised electrical wiring emerge. Unlike newer homes, where remodeling is often straightforward, older homes require additional work to reconstruct walls, repair foundations, and bring plumbing and electrical systems up to code.
Budgeting for the Unexpected
Renovating old apartments can sometimes reveal:
- Unexpected costs
- Extended timelines
- Structural surprises
Ilan recalls a project near Central Park where unexpected erosion was discovered during demolition:
“We were working in a beautiful older building, but soon after we started demo, we discovered corroded pipes, deteriorating electrical wires, and walls with a weakened foundation. We had to update the entire plumbing and electrical systems, as well as reinforce the structural integrity of the walls and foundation.”
Many people admire NYC’s stunning architecture but forget that interiors often need significant updates. Ilan always advises homeowners to budget for surprises after demolition.
Preserving Classic Features While Updating Your Home
Older homes in NYC are full of charm and character, and many homeowners want to retain these historic elements while modernizing their space. Features such as:
- Decommissioned fireplaces can serve as stunning focal points.
- Arched doorways add vintage charm.
- Exposed brick walls create warmth and texture.
- Hardwood flooring can be restored to maintain the home’s integrity.
Rather than fighting against these unique characteristics, consider working with them to enhance your home’s classic appeal.
Open Floor Plans vs. Traditional Layouts
One thing you may notice in an older NYC home is that it likely doesn’t have an open floor plan. This design style didn’t become popular until the 1950s, with kitchens being fully integrated into the living space in the early 1970s.
For homeowners who love contemporary style but own a historical home, Ilan recommends a transitional design:
“You get a traditional look with a taste of contemporary. This way, the charm of the home remains while modern features bring it into the 21st century.”
Renovating Landmark Buildings in NYC
Altering the layout of older homes can be especially challenging if your home is landmarked. Management and the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) impose strict rules to protect historical integrity. The approval process for landmarked buildings can extend the timeline by a few weeks, as LPC must approve permits before the Department of Buildings (DOB) can sign off.
Fortunately, when you work with a full-service company like Klein, our project coordinator Eli handles all the necessary approvals from your building, the city, and LPC.
Balancing Old Charm with Modern Living
Old homes in New York City have incredible architectural features that allow homeowners to immerse themselves in nearly 400 years of history. However, modern updates can improve functionality and convenience.
If you’re looking to renovate your NYC home while maintaining its classic charm, get in touch with our designers today! We’d be happy to work with you and answer any questions about updating your historic space.
