Reimagining Streit’s Matzo Factory on the Lower East Side: Two perspectives
The closing of Streit’s Matzo Factory last year was difficult for many long-time Lower East Siders to stomach. The factory was a near century-old institution that represented a bygone era untouched by gentrification. Unsurprisingly as a result, the condos designed to rise on the storied site have come under the scrutiny since their debut. But those grievances reveal just one side of the story.
In two fascinating interviews ahead, Cogswell Realty developer Arthur Stern and Gluck+ architect Charlie Kaplan share with us how they approached the redevelopment of the historic building located at 150 Rivington, as well as their inspiration for the glassy new structure that will replace it. The pair also speak about their relationship with Streit family throughout the process, and why the Streit’s departure ultimately had little to do with cost or gentrification.
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Frankly, the design is a boring run-of-the-mill glass box. However, I commend the architect and developer for actually engaging in a conversation with the family and trying to salvage what was there. It’s just too bad they couldn’t land on something that isn’t so abstractly contextual.