Thirty-eight stone gargoyles stare down from The Lenru. Their stony gaze seems to follow you. This isn’t some spooky haunted house. It’s The Lenru a grand apartment building in the Norwood neighborhood of the Bronx.
Built in 1928 The Lenru is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to a bygone era. The Jacobethan Revival style blends Tudor and Gothic influences. Imagine the architects Lenny and Ruth Kandell their names echoing in the very structure. They designed this magnificent building. They named it after themselves.
The Lenru boasts 104 units spread across six stories. It covers a massive 148000 square feet. That’s a lot of apartments. A lot of stories.
Originally conceived as rental units The Lenru later became a co-op. This transformation happened in the early 1990s. The Mosholu Preservation Corporation played a crucial role. They spearheaded its restoration in the late 1980s. The Lenru became their first major rehabilitation project.
Across the street sits Williamsbridge Oval Park. This park occupies the land of the old Williamsbridge Reservoir. Imagine the views the residents once enjoyed. Views of a vast body of water. Now they have a stunning park.
Look closely. Notice the details. The steeply pitched roofs. The decorative half-timbering. The crenelated parapet. Even a casual glance reveals exquisite craftsmanship. The dark brick and light masonry trim. It’s a visual feast. A masterpiece in stone and brick.
The gargoyles. Don’t forget them. Those thirty-eight stone sentinels. They’ve witnessed decades of Bronx life. Silent observers of joy sorrow laughter and tears. They’re more than just decoration. They’re a part of The Lenru’s soul.
So next time you’re in the Bronx take a moment to appreciate The Lenru. It’s more than just an apartment building. It’s a living piece of history a testament to the enduring spirit of the Bronx. A silent yet majestic testament to the Kandells’ legacy. A beautiful building to admire and remember.