History is Alive in Our 23rd Annual House Tour!
The Greenwich Village Historic District was designated on April 29, 1969, the anniversary of which is closely followed by our 23rd annual House Tour Benefit on Sunday, May 5, 2024. All of the featured homes in this year’s tour are located in the historic district, and each one represents a gorgeous example of the architectural and cultural history that has been protected thanks to this designation. Let’s take a sneak peek at these outstanding homes!
The oldest homes in Greenwich Village were built in the Federal style. This includes the Dr. Charles M. Graham House which will be on the tour, originally constructed in 1834 as a two-story home. The Flemish bond brickwork on the lower two levels recalls its original design. Over the past century and a half, two additional stories with features of later architectural styles have been added. The third story, added in the mid-to-late 19th century, features a dentilled cornice of Greek Revival style. The home’s fourth story was likely added during the 1920s, and features an artist’s studio, a distinguishing feature of Greenwich Village during that time.
The John J. Palmer House from the tour is a sleek example of the many late Greek revival townhouses in Greenwich Village. Constructed in 1846, the home retains its original stoop and wrought iron railing details. On the inside, the current owner has ensured that the home’s charming 19th century details are the star of the show—some preserved, others carefully replicated. Original details include the banister and staircase, while the interior crown molding is an impressive careful replication of the original detail.
Another gorgeous Greek Revival home that will be featured on the tour is the Gustavo A. Conover House, which dates back to 1846. Like the John J. Palmer House, this townhouse has also been carefully preserved and restored. When the current owners purchased this home, the interior had been divided into two apartments, and few original details remained. Working with architecture firm Fairfax & Sammons, they embarked on a careful renovation of the space, aiming to restore many of the home’s original characteristics. They worked to create millings and woodwork that match the 19th century aesthetic of the home. Of particular note are the interior window moldings and door frames which feature decorative “ears,” a beautiful nod to the rowhouse’s original projecting elements around the front door.
Many area homes are the combination of more than one architectural style. This includes the DeWitt Clinton Hays House, which features original details of both Greek revival and gothic styles. On the inside, modern alterations have created a bespoke living experience. Including an exciting innovation on the top floor—a skylight operated by a hand-crank cantilever that unites the indoor studio with the outdoor terrace. The interior of this 1843 red-brick townhome was recently elevated by interior designer Jenny Wolf, who worked with the current owner to find the perfect combination of antique and contemporary pieces. The result is an homage to the home’s 19th century elegance, with a sophisticated fluidity that looks toward the future.
Many of the homes in the Greenwich Village Historic District are unique and do not correspond with a specific architectural style. One such home is Trinity Manor, a rowhouse dating back to 1852, which features segmentally arched windows in a unique polygonal bay. These floor-to-ceiling parlor windows allow for scores of natural light to sweep throughout the floor. All of the window details have been impeccably replicated, down to the wood paneling and pocket shutters. Trinity Manor has a backstory as fascinating as its interior. Not long after its construction, James Webb took up residency. Webb was in charge of nearly all building operations for the Astor family, and played a hugely significant role in shaping the city during this critical period. Sought after for its unique characteristics and historic interior, the house has been used as a set for several feature films, including “Working Girl” (1988), “The Night We Never Met,” (1993), and “Autumn in New York” (2000).
To purchase tickets to our house tour or for more information, click here.