Historic Carroll Gardens schoolhouse at center of landmarks battle lists for $4.95M

A small Carroll Gardens schoolhouse that’s at the center of a landmarks dispute is now seeking a new owner. The Hans S. Christian Memorial Kindergarten, which dates back to 1897 and was designed by architects Hough & Deuell, is now listed with Corcoran’s Brian Lover for $4.95 million.

The small structure, designed in the French Renaissance revival style, had operated as a kindergarten for many decades, and was turned into a private home in 1974. The battle over the building began earlier this year, when neighborhood residents found out that Avo Construction planned to demolish the building and construct a six-story condo in its place.

But earlier this month, the Landmarks Preservation Commission decided to calendar the building, along with its neighbor at 238 President Street, which puts both buildings on the path to becoming landmarks.

Though a date for a public hearing has yet to be set, there seems to be some support among the LPC for the buildings; outgoing chair Meenakshi Srinivasan noted during a hearing on April 10 that the buildings have retained much of their original character, and the changes have not dimmed their architectural beauty.

The fact that the building is now back on the market suggests that Avo has abandoned its condo plans altogether; the firm was due to close on the building this year, but no sale has been recorded with the city. (We’ve reached out for comment and will update as more information becomes available.)

The home itself spans 3,485 square feet, and it currently has six bedrooms and four bathrooms. But it’s definitely in need of some work; the listing notes that potential buyers should “bring your vision and architect,” and the photos are virtually staged. (There’s also a large, unfinished basement to contend with.)

• Listing: 236 President Street [Corcoran]
• Historic Carroll Gardens school may be saved from the wrecking ball [Curbed]
• Carroll Gardens residents rally to save historic school from demolition [Curbed]