How’s this for creative repurposing?
Russo Development, Dinallo Construction Corp. and DMR Architects celebrated the opening of Annin Lofts in Verona this week.
The group repurposed the former Annin Flag Factory on Bloomfield Avenue in Verona into 52 loft-style apartments and added a new 62-unit sister building that was designed to reflect the original building’s industrial history.
The partners used the original building’s history and façade as inspiration, incorporating exposed brick, beams and duct work, shiplap accents, industrial lighting, high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows into the design of its 52 apartment homes and common areas.
The 60 apartment homes in the second building complement the first with large windows and expansive floorplans, but with finished walls and ceilings for those going for a more traditional vibe.
Russo Development CEO Ed Russo said the project is unique.
“Annin Lofts is the only residential rental option in the area that offers homes in a rehabbed historic building and a brand-new build in the same place,” he said in a statement. “Our design team seamlessly married the vintage industrial vibe with modern conveniences to meet the market’s desire for diverse and unique living spaces.”
Dinallo Construction CEO and President Donald N. Dinallo said the effort was worth it.
“Converting a 100-year old industrial building into modern, diverse living spaces always presents unique challenges,” he said. “Each apartment home has something special — a private outdoor space, original materials, or an imaginative floorplan — providing a distinctive canvas for residents to make their own once they move in.”
Hasbrouck Heights-based DMR Architect’s design included a sixth-floor penthouse structure to the Annin building to accommodate a large indoor club room and two outdoor entertaining spaces that residents of both buildings can use, as well as four penthouse homes with wrap-around porches and 180-degree views of the surrounding valley.
The name Annin Lofts was chosen to respect the legacy of Annin, the largest and oldest flagmaker in the United States. The Annin Flag Co. occupied the property from 1919-23 and made numerous flags of historical significance, including those flown atop Mount Suribachi during World War II, on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission and during the country’s bicentennial celebration in 1976.
