Bellet Construction restores sidewalk on behalf of the James Beard Foundation
Manhattan, NY When the historic sidewalk in front of the James Beard House, a culinary landmark in New York City’s Greenwich Village at 167 West 12th St. began to show signs of age, the James Beard Foundation knew they needed experts in both preservation and craftsmanship. The sidewalk required a careful restoration to honor its legacy and maintain its safety and charm.
Throughout the process, Bellet worked closely with the foundation and city regulators to ensure every detail met preservation standards. The project began with a thorough assessment of the original materials — likely Schofield Grey tinted concrete, as required in historic districts — and a plan to match the dimensions, color, and paving patterns of the existing sidewalk. Bellet’s team removed deteriorated sections, salvaged what could be preserved, and sourced new materials to blend with the original design, all while keeping the site accessible for ongoing events.
The result was a restored sidewalk that honored the James Beard House’s historic character, provided a welcoming entrance for chefs and guests, and preserved a piece of New York’s culinary heritage for generations to come.