New York City is a mosaic of cultures and communities, each neighborhood possessing unique architectural gems and historical edifices. Among these are decommissioned churches, an intriguing intersection of history, culture, and future possibilities. Below is a meticulous exploration of ten churches currently for sale in various neighborhoods throughout New York City. Each listing promises a shift in perspective, inviting curiosity about their prospective transformations.
1. St. Robert Bellarmine Church
Address: 60 E 220th St, Bronx, NY 10467
Contact: 646-582-1363
Website: www.strobertbellarmine.org
A historic church in the Bronx, St. Robert Bellarmine, showcases stunning stained glass and intricate woodwork. Originally built in 1925, it stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of its era. Its spacious hall and sanctuary provide excellent opportunities for conversion into various uses, from community centers to performance spaces.
2. The West Side United Methodist Church
Address: 307 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: 212-564-2559
Website: www.westsidumc.org
Nestled amid the bustling Theater District, this church exudes charm and character. Its rich history predates its 1844 construction, and its location makes it a prime candidate for commercial conversion or a spirited community hub, merging spiritual history with urban vibrancy.
3. The Church of St. George
Address: 7-9 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: 212-254-4690
Website: www.stgeorge-nc.org
Located in the heart of the Bowery, St. George’s exudes gothic elegance. Its rich heritage, coupled with striking architecture, offers prospective buyers a chance to repurpose a piece of history. The vast interior can be envisioned as an art gallery or event space, tantalizing patrons with its storied past.
4. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Address: 619 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022
Contact: 212-838-1600
Website: www.stpeters.org
With its tranquil garden and elegant façade, St. Peter’s in Midtown offers approximately 20,000 square feet of adaptable space. Built in 1866, it beckons entrepreneurs to envision its future—be it a boutique hotel or a unique coworking space, merging old-world charm with contemporary dynamics.
5. The former Church of the Ascension
Address: 221 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: 212-741-7300
Website: www.ascensionnyc.org
Situated in Greenwich Village, this church embodies the essence of its artsy locale. Built in the late 19th century, it boasts a beautifully tiled floor and classic arched windows. Its distinct character serves as a canvas for innovators eager to create a distinctive venue that pays homage to its spiritual roots while embracing modernity.
6. The Holy Cross Church
Address: 329 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: 212-695-2970
Website: www.holycrossnyc.org
Holy Cross stands as an architectural ivory tower amidst the urban sprawl. Its Renaissance Revival style is complemented by its strategic location, making it suitable for conversion into a cultural space or boutique outreach center. Its blend of aesthetics and functionality offers boundless potential.
7. The First Church of Christ, Scientist
Address: 1965 6th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: 212-586-4120
Website: www.firstchurchofchristscientistnyc.org
This art deco marvel, with sophisticated design elements and a sprawling layout, invites innovative ideas. Located near Central Park, the historical significance combined with architectural beauty makes it viable for mixed-use developments or artistic ventures, breathing new life into its distinguished walls.
8. St. Stephen’s Church
Address: 69-12 35th Ave, Astoria, NY 11106
Contact: 718-728-1963
Website: www.ststephensastoria.org
This charming church in Astoria features an inviting façade and ample space, primed for conversion into a community center or unique residential project. Its deep connections to the neighborhood provide a nostalgic touch that could serve to unite community efforts moving forward.
9. Our Lady of Vilna Cemetery Chapel
Address: 1300 E 25th St, Brooklyn, NY 11229
Contact: 718-339-1000
Website: www.ourladyofvilna.com
A hidden gem in Brooklyn, this chapel offers serene surroundings that can transform into an artistic retreat or contemplative space. Its sublime architecture juxtaposed against a tranquil setting invites buyers to redefine sacred spaces for contemporary use.
10. The former St. John the Baptist Romanian Orthodox Cathedral
Address: 451 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: 212-489-2914
Website: www.stjohnnyc.org
This cathedral encapsulates a community’s heritage. Its magnificent domes and ornate detailing create opportunities for buyers to consider it as either a cultural landmark or an innovative event space, merging the sacred and secular in a vibrant metropolitan environment.
Exploring the possibilities behind these ten churches for sale reveals a rich narrative woven through the fabric of New York City. Each property possesses not only a historical significance but also the potential for transformation into spaces that serve the evolving needs of their communities. The revitalization of these sacred sites can lead to innovative ventures, showcasing how architecture and community intersect in inspiring ways.
