Controversial Bowery building sheds its scaffolding

The new 135 Bowery replaced 200-year-old Federal-style rowhouse

After three years and eight months of construction, 135 Bowery – an eight-story commercial building that controversially replaced a Federal-style rowhouse – is now the tallest building on the block.

Designed by architect Raymond Chan, rumor has it that the new building will house the Chinese-based First American International Bank, according to Bowery Boogie.

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Locals fought hard against the project, which replaced a 200-year-old building. But on the bright side, the new building appears to match its neighbors stylistically.

Before it was razed in 2011, 135 Bowery was the oldest surviving structure on the Bowery, dating back to 1817. [Bowery Boogie]Christopher Cameron