by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 25, 2026 | Additions & Enlargements, Brownstones & Townhouses, Landmarks
Enlarging a townhouse in New York City is not simply a design decision — it is a regulatory and structural feasibility question. Zoning regulations, landmark oversight, building code requirements, and Department of Buildings approvals collectively determine what can... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Feb 21, 2026 | Brownstones & Townhouses, Landmarks, Restoration
New York City is defined in part by its historic townhouses — from the iconic brownstones to distinguished limestone residences of the Upper East Side. While brownstone may be the material most commonly associated with the city’s rowhouses, limestone has long... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 | Apartment Renovations, Landmarks, Restoration
Interior renovations in New York City landmark buildings follow a specific approval process governed by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) and coordinated with the Department of Buildings (DOB). These projects require a clear understanding of regulatory... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 31, 2026 | Landmarks, Brownstones & Townhouses, Renovating
Brownstone renovations in Manhattan require a comprehensive architectural approach that integrates historic preservation, structural upgrades, and modern residential design. Many of these townhouses date to the late 19th century and present a combination of aging... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 29, 2026 | Landmarks, Brownstones & Townhouses, Restoration
Many historic buildings were painted over time, often to address maintenance concerns or to create a uniform appearance. As these coatings age, they begin to deteriorate—peeling, trapping moisture, and obscuring the material quality and architectural detail of the... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Nov 12, 2025 | Landmarks, Brownstones & Townhouses
New York City has many beautiful Brownstones, but these can be in disrepair. Considering these homes are well over one hundred years old, they often need restoration. Can You Restore a Brownstone Facade Brownstone is a brownish-colored sandstone that was a popular...