The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is reviewing a proposal for 139 Thompson Street, a five-story Old Law tenement in Soho, Manhattan. Designed by EDG, the project involves extensive structural stabilization and façade reconstruction of the 1875-built residential building. The development team is seeking approval for a comprehensive restoration that addresses significant structural deterioration while maintaining the building’s historic character. The property is located between West Houston and Prince Streets.
139 Thompson Street, via LPC proposal.
The existing building has experienced severe structural issues, including widespread floor joist deflection, compromised load-bearing conditions, and deteriorated masonry. Documentation shows that joists are not properly bearing on center walls, with deflection measurements exceeding acceptable limits across multiple floors. Temporary stabilization measures, including full-height shoring and interior support systems, have been installed since 2019 to prevent further deterioration and allow for investigation and repair. The scope of work includes removal and replacement of compromised structural elements, including joists and stairwells, as well as reconstruction of floor systems to meet current building code requirements.
Neighboring buildings to 139 Thompson Street, via LPC proposal.
Façade conditions are also a central focus of the proposal. Inspections identified widespread damage, including brick spalling, cracking, missing units, and heavy surface deterioration, affecting approximately 80 percent of the bricks. The proposed work calls for removal and replacement of damaged masonry using LPC-approved materials, including Croton brick and matching mortar. Historic elements such as cast iron details, lintels, and sills will be salvaged and restored where possible, or replicated in fiberglass if beyond repair. The cornice, which has already been removed, will also be recreated to match the original design based on prior LPC approvals.
Neighboring building at 49 Grove Street, via LPC proposal.
The project will bring the building into compliance with the 2022 NYC Building Code, triggered by the extent of reconstruction, which exceeds 110 percent of the existing floor area. Planned upgrades include the installation of a new code-compliant egress system, ADA-accessible entry with elevator, full sprinkler system, and modern mechanical systems.
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We should be grateful these conditions were discovered before a collapse.
Totally agree
Built in 1875, this is a pre-law tenement. The old law was passed in 1879. Look at the satellite image: no dumbbell indents.