Finding a Hidden Stained Glass Window: Upper West Side Townhouse Renovation

Historic homes often contain layers of history that are not immediately visible. Over decades, and sometimes more than a century, buildings are altered, renovated, repaired, and adapted to meet changing needs. Original architectural details may be removed, modified, or concealed behind later construction. One of the fascinating aspects of renovating older buildings is that unexpected discoveries can emerge once demolition begins and the original structure is exposed.

During the renovation of an Upper West Side townhouse, we uncovered an original stained glass transom that had been hidden behind a wall for decades. The stained glass window was framed in mahogany and concealed behind sheetrock on the interior and stucco on the exterior. Neither the owners nor the project team knew the window existed prior to demolition. The discovery provided a glimpse into the building’s history and revealed an architectural feature that had been long concealed.

At Fontan Architecture, we work on townhouse renovations, apartment renovations, and historic properties throughout New York City. Existing buildings often contain surprises that are impossible to identify during initial walkthroughs or design studies. This Upper West Side townhouse renovation is an example of how historic structures can preserve elements of their original character beneath later alterations, waiting to be rediscovered during the renovation process.

 

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Even Historic Townhouses May Have Been Altered

Although there are many townhouses and brownstones in New York City that remain in excellent original condition, countless historic homes have been altered over the years. These changes can range from interior renovations and additions to modifications of the building’s exterior. Common alterations include the removal of original stoops, replacement of historic windows, and the covering of brick facades with stucco or paint.

We were hired to design an interior renovation for a townhouse located within the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District. The house was designed by architect Henry Davidson for developer William H. Stafford between 1888 and 1892. The building is a Romanesque Revival with Queen Anne and Flemish influences. Below is a historic photograph from the 1940s showing the townhouse before many of the alterations that occurred over the course of its history.

 

At some point in the building’s history, two major changes were made to the facade. First, the original stoop was completely removed. In addition, the garden and parlor floor facades were covered with stucco, likely concealing areas that had been altered during the stoop removal. The stained glass transom window was also covered on the exterior with stucco and concealed on the interior behind a furred-out wall. As a result, the original stained glass window remained hidden from view for decades.

 

Uncovering the Hidden Window

We were gut renovating the parlor floor, including structural repairs to damaged joists and removing interior finishes down to the original brick walls, when we discovered the concealed historic window during demolition.

The discovery was a pleasant surprise for both our team and the homeowner. Hidden behind a furred-out wall on the interior and covered with stucco on the exterior, the stained glass transom had remained out of sight for decades. Once exposed, the original mahogany surround, brick arch, and stained glass window provided a glimpse into the building’s historic character and architectural past.

 

Hidden Details in Historic Buildings

One of the interesting aspects of renovating historic buildings is that it is impossible to know everything that may be concealed behind walls, ceilings, and later alterations. Over decades, buildings are modified to meet changing needs, and original architectural features are sometimes covered rather than removed.

While discoveries of this kind are not common, they do occur. Over the years we have encountered concealed architectural elements such as original pocket doors and, in this case, a stained glass transom that had remained hidden for decades. These discoveries provide a tangible connection to the building’s history and offer insight into how the home has evolved over time.

Historic photographs, existing conditions investigations, and careful demolition can help reveal clues about a building’s past. Although most renovations do not uncover forgotten architectural features, discoveries like this hidden stained glass window are reminders that historic homes often contain stories that are not immediately visible.

 

Renovating and Restoring Historic Homes

Historic homes offer a unique opportunity to preserve architectural character while adapting buildings to support contemporary living. Whether the goal is restoring original details, modernizing interiors, improving functionality, or undertaking a full renovation, every historic property presents its own opportunities and challenges.

This Upper West Side townhouse renovation serves as a reminder that older buildings often contain layers of history that are not immediately visible. Discoveries such as this hidden stained glass window provide a connection to the building’s past and contribute to the unique character that makes historic homes so special.

At Fontan Architecture, we work on townhouse renovations, apartment renovations, and historic properties throughout New York City. If you are considering restoring, renovating, or modernizing a historic home, careful planning and thoughtful design can help preserve the building’s character while creating a home that meets the needs of contemporary life.