Plans call for the rehabilitation of the vacant First African New Church and adjacent new construction for a total of 44-units. The church was is a historic landmark and was built in 1896 by architect Paul Johann Pelz. Today’s development was designed by Bonstra Haresign Architects. Restoration work will replace the
slate roof, complete with copper trim and detailing. After the refurbishment is complete, the church will contain multiple residential units, including a penthouse with a private entrance.
The new structure will be built along the south face of the existing church. The planned construction reestablishes the church as an important part of the 10th Street frontage, as originally intended. Using the masonry height of the church tower as reference, the new six-story structure turns the corner and extends along V Street, its careful articulation of bays and setbacks complementing the proportions of the neighboring building. Bill Bonstra, AIA, Principal in Charge, notes, “We feel the current design relates strongly to the existing landmark church in terms of massing, materials, scale, and proportion; it does not rely on mimicry of the existing historic building, but is clearly a building that is sensitive to its surroundings and contributes to the urban fabric as ‘a product of our time.’”
One-level underground parking is planned with the possibility of an additional level should subsurface conditions permit. Excavation below the church itself will be avoided or kept to a minimum due to its deteriorated state. The project represents a true mingling of old and new, preservation and construction. Bonstra explains, “Our inclusive approach to working within the historic review and zoning process allowed us to obtain favorable support by listening and implementing suggestions by neighborhood and other groups.” The two structures—the historic church and the modern condominiums—will complement each
other, celebrating the evolution of design and of the neighborhood itself.

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