In the heart of Jersey City, New Jersey, an 1880s townhouse near Van Vorst Park has been exquisitely transformed from a neglected relic into a modern sanctuary. Once marred by years of unsympathetic renovations and lingering odors, this historic building has found new life through the vision of a couple who commissioned Mowery Marsh Architects for a revitalization aligned with Passive House standards. The project highlights sustainability with features like an energy-efficient HVAC system and solar panels, melding green living with a serene and luxurious setting.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Mowery Marsh Architects
Interior Designer: Elaine Santos
Location: Jersey City, New Jersey
Style: Sustainable Luxury and Historic Charm
Featured Elements: Energy-efficient HVAC, Solar Panels, Triple-glazed Windows
The couple, previous Brooklyn locals, embarked on a complete overhaul that saw nearly everything in their four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom home replaced. Mowery Marsh Architects expanded the house with a back addition, creating a seamless flow between the living room, kitchen, and dining area on one level. The installation of triple-glazed windows and French doors ensures optimal indoor comfort and air quality—crucial components of the Passive House approach. Among the distinctive views offered by this townhouse is a stunning scene of One World Trade Center visible from the deck, uniting the charm of suburban tranquility with the dynamism of urban living.
Inside, the home exudes understated elegance with interior designs from Elaine Santos. Her approach marries period-inspired details with contemporary flair, balancing high-end luxury and practical living. The open kitchen layout, designed for sociable gatherings, features a mix of durable and luxe materials. Distinct storage areas including an integrated glass hutch and built-in bookcase impart a library-like ambiance to the space. Santos’ design strategy emphasizes high-impact aesthetics in places out of reach of children, reserving exquisite materials for glamorous touches such as lighting fixtures.
An immersive blend of modern amenities and historical nods characterizes the townhouse. The restored stair railing remains as a singular testament to its original structure, while innovative features like an added stairway connect the kitchen with a lower-level family room. This ground-floor space opens directly onto the backyard, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The living room, accentuated by floor-to-ceiling windows, embodies grandeur and light, with bespoke furnishings by notable designers enhancing the sophisticated environment.
Elsewhere in the house, attention to detail imbues each room with its own charm. A striking marble backsplash and sleek fixtures bring drama to the kitchen, complemented by custom-designed cabinetry. The dining room’s brass pendant adds a subtle luxurious touch, while the powder room showcases paneling painted in rich tones paired with a unique marble sink. In the primary bedroom, historical elements like a Victorian mantel pay homage to the past. Meanwhile, the guest bedroom combines shades of gray to craft an ambiance of refined tranquility.
The primary bathroom stands out with its indulgent features, including an oversized vintage tub perfect for soaking, and a stunning Breccia Turquoise marble slab that redefines traditional tile use. Throughout the abode, Santos’ design principles elevate the concept of urban retreat, yielding a space that is both eco-friendly and emotionally enriching. This rejuvenated Jersey City townhouse captures the essence of modern sustainable living while preserving a connection to its storied past.
