One of the few houses in Brooklyn where "pre-war" means "pre-Civil War". Known as the Susan B. Elkins House, this is Crown Heights’ oldest home and the only remaining free-standing wood frame house in the historic district. Built in the 1850s, it is an individually designated Historic Landmark, a status reserved for very few significant buildings in NYC. It is considered an exemplar of the transition from rural farm house to modern architecture. 

In the past few decades, the house has suffered major neglect and deterioration, raising public interest and concern about its future. After a lengthy approval process, the Historic Preservation Committee (Landmarks) has unanimously voted to support Komaru's proposed design and plan to restore the building. The project involves adding rear and side extensions to a total 9200 sq ft conversion into four elegant condominium units.