One of Allentown’s most desirable historic buildings has come up on the market. 234 Allen Street is home to the longstanding business, Antique Man.
Other than being absolutely exquisite, the building also possesses some very interesting history. It was built in 1892 by Eli Hosmer as a Homeopathic Pharmacy. But it was back in 2014 that I learned from building owner John Shepherd that (rumor has it) the antique lanterns that hang on the front of the building were some of the first in the world to ever be lit using electricity (they were originally located in Niagara Falls). That alone is a distinguishing feature that puts the building into a category of own.
It was also back in 2014, when Shepherd was in the process of building out two open floor plan apartments on the second and third floors of the building. A fire had significantly damaged the building 15 years previously, and the damage was, thankfully, being painstakingly addressed. Today the apartments are fully refurbished and pristine, much like the rest of the building.
The real estate listing, by Gurney Becker & Bourne, describes the 234 Allen Street thusly:
Stately 3-story brick building standing at the corner of Allen & College. Built in 1892 by Eli Hosmer as a Homeopathic Pharmacy, it displays all the architectural attributes that are so characteristic of the Allentown Historic Preservation District. Exterior features include 2 cast iron storefronts adorned with a 1st and 2nd story cornice, Ashlar bricks, brownstone sills/lintels, and antique lanterns. 1st floor has been operating as antique shop for 20 years – it has coffered ceilings, a 1/2 bath, hardwood floors, 3 points of entry, and access to the basement. Full basement is pristine and dry with sump pump, updated furnace, circuit breaker panels, and plumbing. The 2nd and 3rd floor are finished spaces with new hardwood floors updated full baths with radiant heat, new windows, high ceilings, exposed brick walls, separate wiring and heating units, and wide open floor plans. 2nd and 3rd floor can be either apartments or additional commercial space. Stairs lead to flat roof with beautiful views of the city and lake, perfect for a rooftop patio. Roof is in excellent condition. This building has been meticulously maintained and loved for 20 years. At the heart of the arts district, steps from the Medical Campus.
The list price is $950,000.
Get connected: Listing agent – Carmelo Parlato |
Email: parlato.carmelo@gmail.com
Office: 716-335-2227 (Gurney Becker & Bourne)
Cell: 716-335-2227
