Mobilization day is here, marking the beginning of a new chapter in one of our favorite New York neighborhoods, Tribeca. Today, we embark on a journey at 108-110 Franklin Street, a project destined to be a standout in this historic area.
Tribeca, short for Triangle Below Canal Street, is known for its charming streets and rich history. Franklin Street, named after the founding father Benjamin Franklin, was once a quiet residential block lined with Federal-style brick homes. However, by 1860, the landscape began to change as residents either moved away or saw their homes transformed for commercial purposes.
In 1861, Ann Richardson and William Bowne, an unlikely duo, came together to replace two properties with a modern loft and store, completing the project in 1862. This development was among the first of its kind in the neighborhood, designed by an unknown architect to seamlessly blend in. The "shop fronts" at street level were executed in cast iron, with thin piers featuring Corinthian capitals and decorative address plates that still grace the building today. The upper floors were adorned with Italianate elements, including protruding sills, arched lintels, and a stone cornice, all contributing to the building's unique charm.
Over the years, 108-110 Franklin Street has been home to various businesses, reflecting the changing tides of Tribeca's economy. From wholesale dry goods operations to woolen importers and linen companies, the building has witnessed the neighborhood's evolution firsthand. Today, it stands as a testament to Tribeca's rich history, housing high-end artist and residential lofts that retain the building's original facade and storefronts, preserving their integrity after more than a century and a half.
As we embark on this project, we are excited to breathe new life into this historic gem, ensuring that its story continues for generations to come. Stay tuned for updates as we transform 108-110 Franklin Street into a modern masterpiece while honoring its storied past.
