T
he Coignet Stone Company Building, a historic structure on the corner of Third Street and Third Avenue in Gowanus, Brooklyn, stands out as a unique landmark. This 1870s-era concrete building was originally constructed as an advertisement for its proprietors, the New York & Long Island Coignet Stone Company, showcasing their patented cement stone.

    Although the business itself didn't survive, its showroom has endured, becoming an iconic part of the neighborhood's history. The building now boasts a raw interior, awaiting restoration and renovation. Its broker, Erica Nieves of Corcoran, describes it as "raw" and in need of TLC, but sees potential for those who appreciate its historical significance.

    Spanning 2,360 square feet across three levels, the building features soaring ceilings, arched windows, a curving staircase, and cornices. Its current owner acquired it in 1992, with attempted sales in 2013 and 2019 failing to secure a buyer. The exterior received a refresh in 2016 courtesy of Whole Foods Market, but the interior remains largely untouched.

    The building's zoning has recently changed, allowing only for businesses such as restaurants, offices, or retailers. Nieves suggests that leasing the property could be an attractive option, potentially bringing new life to this historic structure and making its contents accessible to the public once again.