by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 4, 2024 | Landmarks / Preservation, Restoration, Townhouses
Believe it or not, some people have painted over historic masonry facades and other architectural elements of buildings, townhouses, and brownstones in New York City over the years. Over time, this paint can start to peel and look terrible; it also covers the original... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 4, 2024 | Landmarks / Preservation, Restoration, 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... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Sep 22, 2023 | FISP Local Law 11, NYC DOB, Restoration
A parapet is any portion of a wall extending above a roof. These portions of a building can deteriorate over time and create a public hazard. To prevent a danger to the public, New York City has initiated a new rule to require inspections of parapets within the city.... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Jan 4, 2024 | Renovations, Restoration, Townhouses
Brownstones in New York can need a lot of work to renovate them. There are many things to consider and countless options on what you can do when remodeling your Brownstone. I am Jorge Fontan, an architect in New York and owner of Fontan Architecture, a Manhattan-based... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Jul 23, 2023 | Landmarks / Preservation, Restoration, Townhouses
New York City Townhouses and Brownstones were mostly built in the mid to late 19th century. Many of these homes, although not all, are Landmarks or in a Landmark District. These homes are well over a hundred years old and often need repairs. One common area of concern... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Sep 1, 2023 | Renovations, Restoration, Townhouses
If you are planning to renovate a townhouse in NYC you probably have a lot of questions. This is normal because renovating a townhouse can be complicated. If you intend to renovate your townhouse in New York City you will need to hire an architect, hire a general... 
