The developer restoring unusual structures like a Swiss chalet and a Japanese bungalow at the National Park Seminary in Forest Glen is seeking buyers who are interested in preserving some of the historic single-family homes on the property.
The Alexander Company, a national developer based in Wisconsin, has owned the seminary property for three years and has developed a plan for qualified buyers to submit “letters of interest” for the purchase and restoration of at least one single-family home on the property. These homes have unique architectural styles such as an Indian mission house, a clapboard-sided farmhouse, Japanese and American-style bungalows, a Swiss chalet, and a brick post-master’s house.
Natalie Bock, a project manager for The Alexander Company, said allowing outsiders to move in and restore about 10 single-family buildings would expedite the rehabilitation process.
“The site is very large and complex,” she said. “We are getting ready to start construction on the main historic structure and we are worried that if we wait too long, [the houses] will deteriorate further.”
The company’s main priority will be renovating and restoring the main building, which includes a ballroom. Other historic structures will be demolished, and there are plans for new rental units, condominiums and townhouses to be constructed on the property.
