The Wellington Apartments

Stylistically, the Wellington is typical of multi-family dwellings found in the North Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk, VA. When the Wellington was constructed c1914, it was under S.L. Nusbaum & Co management. An ad in the Virginian-Pilot dated September 1916 described the apartment as a “luxury to live in,” “absolutely fireproof,” and features “plenty of sunshine and fresh air.” The apartment has “two tile bathrooms, porcelain tubs, tile kitchen, and tile pantry.” There is a “large living room, large dining room, sleeping porch, and three bedrooms.” Early residents of The Wellington included several businessmen in Norfolk; including Harry Levy (Philip Levy & Co. and American Home Furnishers Corporation), Nathan Hesslein (Hesslein Bros & Co), JE Humble (Stimmel Distilling Co.), and Frank Jacobs (Frank Jacobs & Bros).  

In 2020, Commonwealth Preservation Group served as the tax credit consultant for the building’s new ownership. The layout of the historic plan remained intact with a few minor alterations to accommodate modern day needs. The biggest undertaking for the project was bringing the building up to current building code regulations and installing new central heat and air, as well as updating electrical systems. Modern finishes were removed revealing the historic hardwood floors. Once considered a “luxury to live in” has once again returned to its former glory.