Welcome to the Summer Edition of The Townhouse Journal!
Keeping you informed about all things townhouses from your local market to maintenance, history, architecture, construction, and more. In this edition, I shine a light on the transformative benefits of embracing natural light in your townhouse and delve into the pulse of the townhouse market and broader Manhattan market. Additionally, enjoy reading about the rich architectural details of a row of landmarked stables located in Chelsea.
Let There Be Light!
Unless you’re lucky enough to live on a corner lot with side windows, chances are the middle of your house lacks natural light due to the nature of its long and narrow footprint. Natural light highlights architectural features, creates visually appealing spaces, and is associated with numerous health benefits such as improving sleep, mood, and cognitive performance. This is precisely why natural light enjoys broad popularity and allure, making it a worthwhile investment.
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Install windows that are wider or longer, reaching to the floor.
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Alternatively, convert windows into doors that open onto a new outdoor space.
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Reconfigure the layout to create a more open floor plan, allowing more natural light to reach the center of the house.
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Add skylights to bring in additional light.
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Open up the rear exterior wall on the garden or parlor levels, replacing it with oversized windows or a spectacular glass wall, creating the added benefit of integrating the interior with your outdoor space.
To enhance light without major construction, consider the following:
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Choose wall finishes that reflect light.
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Think light creams, pastels, or white with reflective paint finishes such as eggshells or satin.
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Select lighter-colored flooring and avoid dark woods that absorb light; this includes dark window frames.
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If you have brick walls use techniques like pickling or painting to maintain texture while allowing light to bounce around.
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Install large mirrors to reflect light.
Keep in mind that if you are in a historic district or have a landmarked building, you may need approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Visual changes at the back of the house, unseen from the street, have a higher chance of approval since they preserve the historical character of the neighborhood. Hire an architect with landmark experience to guide you and provide insight into the likelihood of approval.
Manhattan Market Rebounds From Sluggish First Quarter
The Manhattan residential real estate market had a slow start in 2023 but gained momentum in the second quarter, recovering from a steep decline of almost 40% in sales volume compared to the previous year, caused by a sharp rise in interest rates. During the second quarter, there was a noticeable improvement, with sales volume increasing by 4% and the median sales price rising by 11%. Additionally, buyer activity also saw a boost with signed contracts rising by almost 22%.
Townhouse Market
The Manhattan townhouse market also experienced growth in the second quarter. Sales volume and signed contracts surpassed the general market, showing respective increases of 10.3% and 82.4%. Properties moved more briskly, as the median days on the market decreased by almost 33% for properties that went into contract. However, the median sales price did decrease by 9.24%.
The downtown townhouse market, specifically, saw a significant increase in signed contracts during the second quarter, soaring by 71%. Notably, 25% of the signed contracts were in the 5 neighborhoods covered by The Townhouse Journal.
(Please note: Market information is for 1-4 family houses south of West 110th and East 96th Streets and based on public sales only.)
Historic Horse Stables in Chelsea
126, 128, 130-32, 136, and 140 West 18th Street Stables were designated as a New York City Individual Landmark in December 1990 and stand as a testament to a bygone era, the surviving remnants of an original group of 13 commercial livery stables built between 1864 and 1866.
Inspired by the German Rundbogenstil they were constructed for wealthy owners whose residences were nearby. These late 19th-century brick stables on West 18th Street are a rare example of cohesively designed carriage stables in Manhattan. With their remarkable architectural integrity and intact presence, these five stables exude a distinguished charm. In contrast to the patchwork of individual designs seen in many stable blocks, West 18th Street showcases a harmonious and uniform streetscape. The trend began when Elisha Brooks, of Brooks Brothers clothiers, had three identical two-story private carriage houses constructed in 1864. Inspired by his vision, ten more stables were added to the street within two years, each serving as a carbon copy of the originals. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, coachmen and their families resided above the stables, creating a close-knit community amidst the equine ambiance. Today, these storied stables serve as a reminder of an elegant era, preserving the history and architectural uniqueness of West 18th Street.
