– The Centurian Building, 1182 Broadway –
City
New York
Borough
Manhattan
Building Type
Residential
Service Type
Cast Iron Historic
Restoring a Landmark Residential Property in NoMad
The Centurian Building, located at 1182 Broadway in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood, is a pre-war, 16-story landmark known for its classical architectural design and distinctive façade. Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the building has since been converted into luxury residential condominiums with ground-floor commercial space.
Characterized by ornate detailing, terracotta elements, and copper window frames, the structure reflects the craftsmanship and architectural identity of historic New York buildings.
MGR Restoration was engaged to restore the building’s façade and architectural components, addressing deterioration while preserving its original character. The project required a balance between modern performance standards and traditional restoration techniques to maintain both structural integrity and visual authenticity.
Restoration of pre-war residential buildings requires careful material matching, skilled craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of historic façade systems.
Scope of Work – Centurian Building Restoration
This project involved façade restoration, architectural detailing, and system upgrades across multiple components:
Masonry & Façade Work
- Low-pressure chemical cleaning of façade
- Brick replacement and repointing
- Window caulking and sealing
- Stone masonry laser cleaning
- Stucco removal and installation
- Replacement and repainting of window lintels
Coatings & Decorative Finishes
- Application of new glaze for terracotta façade and cornices
- Patina application to bronze window cladding
Roofing
- Roof repairs and slope correction
Metal Work & Architectural Features
- Installation of skylights
- Installation of copper and bronze window frames
Preserving a Pre-War Landmark in NoMad
The Centurian Building represents a class of early 20th-century Manhattan architecture defined by craftsmanship, proportion, and durable materials. Buildings of this era were constructed with a level of detail rarely seen in modern construction, making their preservation both important and technically demanding.
Over time, exposure to environmental conditions leads to deterioration of masonry, façade coatings, and metal elements. Restoration efforts must carefully address these issues while maintaining the building’s original design intent.
Projects like this require a combination of historic preservation knowledge and modern restoration techniques to ensure the building continues to perform while retaining its architectural identity.
Why MGR Restoration Was Selected for This Project
- Experience with pre-war and landmark residential buildings in NYC
- Expertise in façade restoration, masonry repair, and decorative finishes
- Ability to match historic materials and architectural detailing
- Skilled execution of both structural and aesthetic restoration work
- Strong understanding of NYC building codes and restoration requirements
MGR Restoration delivers restoration solutions that protect both the structure and the architectural character of landmark properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pre-war building in New York City?
Why do historic façades require restoration?
What is involved in façade restoration?
Can historic materials like terracotta be restored?
Why is material matching important in restoration?
Planning a Façade Restoration Project in NYC?
Work with a team experienced in restoring historic residential and landmark buildings across Manhattan.
