We are excited to announce a design competition for the restoration and renovation of the historic Conover Cottages.

Located on a tree-lined cobblestone street, steps from the water, Fairway, Sunny’s, Botanica, the Waterfront Barge, Liberty Sunset Garden Center, and lovely public parks, gardens, and piers, these homes are located on one of the most desirable blocks in “the Back” of historic Red Hook.

But time has not been kind to the Conover Cottages. Their facades have been swathed in vinyl, and their foundations are distressed. The houses’ humble origins are evident in their low ceilings and sloping floors. It is unlikely that the original builders intended the homes to last for a century, but they have endured. Sensitive to the evolving community and its historic roots, we look forward to the rebirth of these beloved homes.

The first cottage, 207 Conover Street, will begin its renovations this spring. We hope to determine much about the buildings’ structure and history as excavations begin. As the project progresses, we will be compiling photos and historical data on this site.

Inspired in part by the Small House Movement, we invite our neighbors and the design community to contribute their visions of what the three adjacent homes can become; they will be renovated based on the winning plans. The designs should embrace traditional cottage style, but as with the original houses, each should retain its own character. Though the block is not restricted by any landmark status, our goal is to keep the spirit of the cottages intact while adding light, higher ceilings, and modern mechanicals.

Designers will contribute renderings and floor plans for the competition for all details, download the rfp here. The winning three designs will be awarded $1000 each, and the cottages will be restored throughout the next year.

Help us re-envision the Conover Cottages for the 21st century!