Stoops to Conquer: The Evolution of the New York Townhouse

New York City in the popular imagination may be defined by the skyscraper, but in reality, our city’s landscape is dominated by a grid plan that minced most blocks into a staggering number of narrow lots. These produced entire neighborhoods of narrow residential buildings, making the townhouse the true vernacular architecture of the city. As we prepare for GVSHP’s Annual Benefit House Tour in May, join architect Richard Sammons as he traces the origins and evolution of the ever-present townhouse in New York City. Townhouses give so many historic neighborhoods their charm, but what are the weaknesses of the form? And how can modern architects and city-dwellers improve upon this classic architectural style to bring the economical, adaptable, and sustainable townhouse into the 21st century?

Richard Sammons is a principal at Fairfax & Sammons Architects, whose offices are in New York and Palm Beach. Richard is an award-winning designer, having designed and rehabilitated dozens of townhouses in his career.

Presented in partnership with the Merchant’s House Museum.

This event is not fully accessible.