The Mark Twain Building

Johnson-Schmidt Architect worked with Capriotti Properties on the completed repositioning of the historic Mark Twain Building in downtown Elmira, with the project seeking historic tax credits to support the rehabilitation of this important downtown landmark. Originally opened in 1929 as the Mark Twain Hotel, the eight-story building was designed by George B. Post & Sons and constructed by the Lowman Construction Company. With its English and Italian Renaissance influences and prominent location at 147 West Gray Street, the building has long been one of Elmira’s most recognizable civic and commercial anchors.

The rehabilitation transformed the former hotel and office building into modern market-rate housing, while reactivating the first floor with commercial and retail space that supports renewed downtown activity. The completed work preserves the building’s historic character while returning it to a more active mixed-use role, combining residential life, street-level commerce, and long-term stewardship in the heart of Elmira.