The Mark Twain Building

Johnson-Schmidt Architect worked with Capriotti Properties on the completed repositioning of the historic Mark Twain Building in downtown Elmira as a renewed mixed-use destination. Originally opened in 1929 as the Mark Twain Hotel, the eight-story building was designed by George B. Post & Sons and built by the Lowman Construction Company. The building has long been one of Elmira’s most recognizable downtown landmarks, with English and Italian Renaissance architectural influences and a prominent location at 147 West Gray Street.

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 downtown activity. The completed work helps return the building to its historic role as a lively urban anchor, combining residential use, street-level commerce, and preserved architectural character in the heart of Elmira.

By bringing new housing and commercial energy back into one of the city’s signature buildings, the project contributes to the continued revitalization of downtown Elmira and demonstrates the value of adapting historic buildings for contemporary use while maintaining their presence, identity, and connection to the community.

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