Square Bra vs. the Utility Companies

UPDATE: The actual move will only cost $12,000, but to save this landmark will cost an additional $38,000 to pay the utility companies to move wires, shut off power, etc.

STORY: Preserving local architecture should include the postmodern as well as the historic, Jake Gorst told the Southampton Town Board last Friday. Gorst, a documentary filmmaker, made a plea to the board to help him preserve one of his grandfather’s last remaining architectural designs on the East End.

Commissioned by Arthur Pearlroth in 1959, Geller built what has come to be known as the Pearlroth Beach House on Dune Road in Westhampton. The 600-square foot home — the size of three parking spaces — is essentially two elongated boxes, creating a box kite or double diamond shape.

Arthur’s son Jonathan Pearlroth inherited the house several years ago, but intends to build a new home on the property. He offered the unique structure to Gorst, with the caveat that the grandson must find a way to move the house by the middle of this month. Gorst, who has been raising money for the move and subsequent restoration of the house, hopes to donate it to town officials who have considered declaring it a landmark. The estimated cost for the project is only $150,000.

Contributions are being accepted through Exhibitions International – a 501c3 dedicated to the preservation of architecture and design. To make a Tax Deductible Contributions please contact David Shearer or call him at 212-674-7726.

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