Brooklyn is home to some of New York City’s most iconic historic architecture. From brownstones and row houses to pre-war apartment buildings, these structures tell the story of Brooklyn’s past. Restoring a historic building here isn’t just about preserving beauty. It’s about honoring the craftsmanship, maintaining structural integrity, and following city guidelines.
If you’re a homeowner, investor, or contractor looking to take on a restoration project in Brooklyn, you need to strike a careful balance between modern improvements and historical accuracy. This guide will walk you through practical tips to help you restore historic properties the right way.
What is the Historical Value of the Building
Before any work begins, take time to learn about the building’s history. Look into the original construction date, architectural style, and any past renovations. Brooklyn is filled with buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s, many of which feature unique design elements that shouldn’t be altered or removed.
Understanding what makes your property historic helps you make smarter restoration decisions. It also helps you know which elements to preserve, like cornices, brick facades, woodwork, or window designs.
Check If the Property Is Landmark-Protected
Many areas of Brooklyn, such as Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, and Fort Greene, fall under landmark or historic district protections. If your property is landmarked, you must follow strict rules set by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC).
Any exterior restoration work, like windows, doors, or masonry, requires approval. Failing to get permission can lead to fines or orders to undo your work. Always check with LPC before making any changes, even if they seem minor.
Work with Specialists in Historic Restoration
Not all contractors are familiar with historic buildings. For a successful project, you need experts who understand how to handle older materials and traditional techniques.
Look for professionals with experience in restoring Brooklyn’s pre-war buildings or brownstones. They’ll know how to match original brick types, repair plaster walls, restore cast-iron elements, and rebuild woodwork that aligns with the era. Working with the right team helps protect the building’s integrity and ensures quality results.
Use Authentic Materials Whenever Possible
Restoration is not the same as renovation. The goal is to bring the building back to its original state—not to replace everything with modern materials. Using authentic or salvaged materials helps preserve the character of the building.
For example, if you’re repairing brickwork, try to find bricks that match the size, color, and texture of the original ones. If the original mortar used lime, don’t switch to modern cement-based mortar—it can damage older bricks over time.
The same goes for wood floors, windows, or trim. Reusing or replicating original materials keeps the building true to its era and often improves its value.
Prioritize Structural Stability
While aesthetics are important, structure comes first. Many older buildings in Brooklyn face problems like settling foundations, rotting joists, or damaged roof beams. Before restoring finishes and decorative details, make sure the structure is sound.
A full structural assessment by an engineer or restoration contractor can uncover hidden issues. Addressing these early prevents more costly repairs later and ensures your project is safe and long-lasting.
Respect the Building’s Original Layout
Over the years, many historic buildings have been chopped up, expanded, or modified. When restoring, try to respect the original layout as much as possible. This includes room proportions, ceiling heights, and door placements.
While it’s okay to update some areas for modern use, keeping the basic floor plan helps preserve the architectural integrity and appeal of the home.
Upgrade with Careful Planning
Modern upgrades are necessary, but they should be done with care. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems in historic buildings often need complete updates. The key is to integrate them without damaging or hiding original features.
Use discreet solutions, like running wires behind moldings or placing ductwork in unused spaces. For kitchens and bathrooms, choose designs that feel consistent with the style of the home while meeting today’s needs.
Focus on Masonry and Exterior Preservation
Brick and stone facades are a hallmark of Brooklyn’s historic charm. These materials often need cleaning, repointing, or patching. But be cautious—using the wrong method or material can do more harm than good.
Avoid abrasive cleaning techniques like sandblasting, which can wear down brick surfaces. Instead, go with gentle chemical cleaners or steam cleaning. Repointing should use mortar that matches the original in texture and strength to avoid cracking or damage.
Preserve Windows and Doors When Possible
Original windows and doors are often more durable than newer ones. If they’re in decent shape, consider restoring instead of replacing. Old wood windows can be reglazed, weatherstripped, and repaired to match today’s energy standards.
If replacement is necessary, use historically accurate replicas. Some companies in NYC specialize in making custom windows that meet LPC guidelines while improving insulation.
Stay Patient and Detail-Oriented
Historic restoration takes time. Every decision, from paint color to floor finish, affects the overall look and feel of the building. It’s not a fast process, but it’s worth the effort.
Stay organized, work with the right experts, and don’t rush through key stages. A successful restoration blends history with functionality and adds long-term value to your Brooklyn property.
Conclusion
Restoring a historic building in Brooklyn is a rewarding journey. It’s about more than fixing up a structure—it’s about preserving a piece of the city’s story. Whether you’re updating a brownstone, townhouse, or old commercial space, every detail matters.
With the right planning, materials, and team, your restoration project can breathe new life into an old gem and keep it standing strong for generations to come.