Building permits in hand, ZeptoMetrix is now quickly moving forward with the $800,000 renovation of the mansion at 878 Main Street, between Allen and Virginia. ZeptoMetrix, a biotechnology firm headquartered next door at 872 Main, purchased the long- vacant structure from the City in December for $70,000. The firm was selected to redevelop the vacant circa-1890 Allentown property in 2006.
Silvestri Architects prepared renovation plans for the three-story, 5,010 sq.ft. mansion which will become Zepto's corporate offices. By preserving a significant portion of the building, the company will be eligible for historic preservation tax credits.
Renovation Plans
“We finally got our general building permit and so we'll be moving full speed ahead from here,” says James C.D. Hengst, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of ZeptoMetrix. “A few weeks ago we received US Parks Service approval of our modified part 2 application. We also have the green light from SHPO (NYState Historic Preservation Office).”
Masons are currently putting the finishing touches on the five chimneys that are being reconstructed. After they finish this, the roofers will be back to finish the roof.
The firm’s existing building at 872 Main has also been remodeled. Its facade has returned to its original look when it was built in the 1920’s for retail and commercial use.
878 Main Street, "Before"