A top-down renovation of the historic Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse in Rockaway Beach, Queens will soon begin now that developers have secured more than $47.5 million in construction financing. The project team includes architect Beyer Blinder Belle alongside CBSK Developers, Brooklyn Bazaar, and Aulder Capital.
Constructed in the 1930s, the bathhouse comprises 40,000 square feet and stands around three stories tall. While the building’s octagonal red brick towers are its most significant exterior feature, the interiors once included arched changing rooms, lavish tiling, and communal bathing areas. By the 1990s, the bathhouse had changed ownership several times and finally closed in a state of disrepair.
The new owners intend to restore the building to its former glory. Activations will include a new 28-key hotel, a rooftop restaurant, ground-floor eateries, a beachfront bar, an indoor pool, flexible event spaces, and retailers stocking beach supplies including sunblock and towels.
Exterior view of the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse arches – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Inside the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Exterior view of the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse looking south – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Exterior view of the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse building towers – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Inside the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Roof of the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse looking south – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
Designs by Beyer Blinder Belle underwent careful review by New York State’s Historic Preservation Office to prevent alterations to the building’s original Byzantine and Moorish-inspired architecture. The project will include a full restoration of the building’s landmarked façade, windows, and turrets.
“Our vision for this project centers on preserving the storied past of the Jacob Riis Park bathhouse while revitalizing it to serve today’s beachgoers, and this closing milestone brings us one step closer to achieving that goal,” said CBSK’s Scott Shnay. “The building has been an iconic landmark on the Queens’ waterfront for decades and our restoration plan for the bathhouse will transform it into a modern beachfront hub, complete with a full range of amenities for the public.
The project is financed through a $32.5 million construction loan from Procida and a $15 million historic tax credit equity investment from Foss & Company.
Construction is set to begin later this spring and a phased opening is expected for 2024.
Exterior view of the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse building towers – Credit Sylvester Zawadzki
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The third photo is tantalizing… those big streamline moderne windows make it feel like a beached ship.
Wow awesome
I was surprised to see that this bathhouse is sprinklered.
It’s great to see this iconic building restored to its former glory. It has spectacular views and location.
Boooo make it a bathhouse again!
So who’s d!ck will need to be sucked just to get a hotel room when there’s only 28 rooms?