A historic renovation and expansion project that bridges the neighborhoods of Journal and McGinley Squares has become one of this year’s most notable new developments, artfully blending Gilded Age details and repurposed history alongside modern amenities.
Parlour Place, situated at 857 Bergen Avenue, takes its name from a beloved ice cream parlor that occupied the property for many years. Portions of the 52-unit adapted reuse complex date to the 1880s and feature a boatload of historic charm that includes exposed brickwork along with tons of other details that were lovingly restored during the renovation process.
Construction at the property revealed a three-course brick arch spanning the entire width of building that was restored, while handmade stained glass window sashes from the original structure were thoughtfully incorporated into the hallways and vestibules.
The effort to reclaim elements from the past extended well beyond the structure itself: marble tabletops from the former ice cream parlor were repurposed with new iron legs and now serve as tables in the building’s mailroom, while a pair of original cast iron posts that were buried in the walls were cleaned, exposed and repainted on the building’s facade.
The lobby at Parlour Place nods to Journal Square’s Gilded Age era with a coffered ceiling featuring big brass mushroom pendants and a specious lush lounge. On-site pizzeria Jersey Pizza Shop, located on the ground floor, opened over the summer and celebrates the neon signage style reminiscent of the neighborhood’s historic theaters. A hit with residents and locals, the pizzeria crafts every pie with small-batch local ingredients and imported Italian staples.
The completion of Parlour Place expanded the original property northbound along Bergen Avenue with an addition that mimics the facade fenestration pattern at the historic brownstone. The details on the new portion are intentionally very minimal, with an ash-gray exterior contrasts with the original red brick, creating a deliberate dialogue between past and present.
The result of all that work is a living space that makes Parlour Place decidedly not stuck in the past it celebrates. The fully modern and amenitized building sports all the bells and whistles that discerning renters in today’s market are looking for with keyless entry, electronic package lockers, and top-notch amenities like a state-of-the-art fitness center and a co-working lounge on site.
A rooftop deck boasts both stunning views and tranquil gardens, featuring lounge beds, cafe tables and Adirondack chairs. The amenities are rounded out by on-site laundry, bicycle parking, resident storage and a conference room with ambient light and limewash painted ceilings and walls.
Parlour Place stands as another of Stonebridge Capital’s visionary developments, brought to life by the skilled craftsmanship of Sabia Construction and thoughtfully designed by Rebeca-Rebeca Studio, whose interiors elegantly bridge nostalgia and modernity.
Studio through three-bedroom units are featured at Parlour Place, some of which sport dens and patio spaces. The property also features a pair of penthouses with terraces overlooking Journal, Bergen and McGinley Squares. Studios have been the most popular offering, with most having been scooped up with the property already reaching the 60% leased milestone.
Parlour Place is currently offering incentives for prospective tenants including one month of free rent on an 18-month lease and two free months for a 24-month lease. For more information or to make an appointment, please contact Corcoran Sawyer Smith at [email protected] or 201-267-2414.
