This eight story staple of Downtown Elmira was built in 1929, and operated as the Mark Twain Hotel until 1974, when it was converted into apartments and office space. Our purchase of the historic Mark Twain Building was finalized December of 2020, and with over 100 apartments and nearly 200,000 square feet of floor space is our largest project to date! Apartment renovations began at the top of the building in February of 2021, and as of the spring of 2023, all apartments on the 5th through 8th floor have been completed, as well as a majority of the 4th floor. The ground floor is seeing an influx of new activity, and the next phase includes a makeover for the upper corridors, as well as a complete re-imagining of the 2nd floor, which is currently a labyrinth of office spaces, into grand apartments reminiscent of the Hotel's original main floor.

With great attention to detail, we try to incorporate historic features of the building into a modern, 21st-century urban-chic look. The walls were repaired where necessary, grand historic crown molding installed, as well as new wooden baseboards replacing the rubber cove molding. All of the lackluster carpet and linoleum was replaced with gleaming LVP plank flooring. The original doors within the apartments have been refinished, and refitted with new satin-nickel hardware, as well as new wooden closet doors replacing the old metal ones. The original window units have been rebuilt with new glass and hardware, sleek granite sills replacing drab Formica, and the old mini-blinds replaced by ergonomic new black-out shades. New energy-efficient PTAC units replaced the old 1970's era heating/ac units, and new energy efficient lighting has been installed throughout, in a wide range of unique styles! The kitchens are the focal points of the apartments, and offer unrivaled functionality accompanied by sleek modern design and historic flare. The 70's style cabinets, appliances, and soffits were all removed and replaced by taller, brand new "urban-chic", espresso-toned cabinetry. Granite countertops were installed, as well as large, stainless steel sinks with pull-down faucets. Additionally, the kitchens have been equipped with a glass-top electric range with microwave mounted above, and stainless steel French door refrigerators. The bathrooms were a total makeover, with brand new tile on the floor and walls, installation of a new oversized tub/shower unit, brand new Kohler toilets and satin-nickel styled bath and sink fixtures. The bathrooms also feature brand new espresso-toned vanities with granite sink counters and modern LED lighting over the mirror.

Being such a massive building, renovations are still being done in phases. Still to come include reimagining of the 2nd floor, new ground floor windows and doors more appropriate to the building's style, new awnings, as well as multiple rooftop patios accessible from the 3rd floor. Pictures will be posted here as we complete more of these phases!