Originally designed in 1890 by Renwick-Aspinwall and Russell Architects, the Romanesque loft building at 173 MacDougal Street underwent a dramatic transformation in 1966 when architect Victor Janer Christ converted it into a church, stripping much of its original architectural detail and closing off its upper three floors. Recently, the building was redeveloped into nine apartments, while the church continues to occupy the first floor and cellar. The restoration faced challenges, particularly regarding the 1960s façade, designed by a notable architect. The original brick pilasters and arched openings were among the few surviving elements. Structural assessments revealed that the brick veneer added in the 1960s had caused extensive damage to the historic masonry, raising questions about whether a full reconstruction of the façade was necessary.
A solution emerged: a hybrid approach combining salvaged interior layers of the historical façade with compatible materials, preserving architectural integrity while ensuring structural stability. The redesigned façade—termed a “retro-vention”, blending reverse intervention and interpretive design—acknowledges the building’s layered history while creating a dialogue between past and present.
New angled windows provide sweeping views of Washington Square Park, the Village, and MacDougal Alley, integrating the building into its surrounding neighborhoods. The restoration coincided with broader efforts to revitalize the street and park, reinforcing its landmark status and contributing to the area's transformation.
The project reflects a broader trend of architectural interventions across Downtown Manhattan, where developments in SoHo, NoHo, and Washington Square have played a pivotal role in shaping the urban fabric, anchoring the changing landscape of the commercial SoHo District.
