Located on Merchants' Row, aptly named for the Bloomingdale, Macy, Saks and Gimbels families who had country estates located here, this stately home was built in 1927 for Earl Sams, the founder of the J.C. Penney department store.
Project: 59 Highland Ave.
This historic home was built in 1897, and it remained in the hands of the same family until 1995. Since then it has seen only two owners, both of whom have made renovations and restorations that were true to the home's original character.
Project: 45 E. 66th St.
45 E. 66th St.
Completed in 1908, this building was originally called Parkview as it afforded a commanding view of Central Park. Located on the corner of 66th St. and Madison Ave., it loomed over the rest of the low scale row houses that existed on the block.
This building ushered in a new style of living on the Upper East Side, with 13-room apartments and accommodations for staff. Rather than residing in single family detached homes, fashionable New Yorkers of the time lived high above the dust and noise of the street level.
It was landmarked by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 1977.
Project: Charlton Hall
Charlton Hall
This Gold Coast mansion was constructed in 1916, and was designed to be a replica of an 18th Century British country house. The home features numerous French doors and windows, including ornate architectural accents.
How Bent Glass is Crafted
Have you ever wondered about how glass can be bent to create windows, such as those often found on corner turrets? If so, then read on.
Project: 777 Madison Avenue
This building is an example of how lifestyles have evolved over the decades. It was one of the first luxury apartment houses that replaced many single family homes in the city.
Acetylated Wood for Windows
Although wooden windows have a unique character and beauty all their own, some owners struggle to justify keeping them when the issue of refurbishment arises. When historic buildings intended to see an extended service life confront the issue of window repair, modern advances in chemistry may be able to provide a long-lasting remedy.
The Money Behind the House
In order to gain a bit of perspective about Charlton Hall, we need to take a look back at the first owner's father, David Dows, Sr.