How Huntington Station’s Historic Train Station Renovations Are Sparking a Renaissance in Heritage Brick Materials

The revitalization of Huntington Station is creating unprecedented demand for heritage brick materials as the community undergoes its most significant transformation in decades. Huntington Station was named Long Island’s winner of the sixth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative in 2023. The six projects selected seek to provide more housing, improve public gathering spaces, and increase pedestrian connectivity along New York Avenue south of the LIRR to further encourage the walkable lifestyle and sense of community. This ambitious renewal effort is driving a surge in demand for premium masonry materials that honor the area’s rich railroad heritage while meeting modern construction standards.

The Station’s Historic Foundation Drives Material Choices

The architectural significance of Huntington Station’s train infrastructure cannot be understated. The current station building was built in 1909 and was renovated by the Long Island Rail Road for its centennial. This historic foundation has established a design language that continues to influence contemporary construction projects throughout the area. In January 1909, the railroad unveiled plans for the new Huntington train station, which carried a price tag of $20,000 and featured a gambrel roof with dormers in both the front and back and two large columned porticos on either side of the waiting room. The Long-Islander predicted that the improvements would “give Long Island by far the greatest boom in its history.”

Today’s renovation projects are drawing inspiration from this century-old craftsmanship, creating substantial demand for materials that can replicate the authentic look and feel of period-appropriate masonry work. The emphasis on heritage aesthetics is driving contractors and architects to seek out specialized brick varieties that match the original construction’s color palettes, textures, and dimensional characteristics.

2024 Masonry Trends Align with Historic Preservation

The masonry industry in 2024 is experiencing a renaissance in heritage materials that perfectly aligns with Huntington Station’s renovation needs. Expect to see a surge in demand for earthy tones and natural finishes in brick design. Warm, neutral colors such as terracotta, beige, and muted reds are making a comeback, providing a timeless and elegant aesthetic. These color trends complement the historic character of the train station area while offering the durability and performance characteristics required for modern construction.

In 2024, the allure of vintage and rustic aesthetics continues to thrive within masonry design, bringing a sense of warmth and timelessness to modern structures. This trend is particularly relevant for the Huntington Station area, where new construction must harmonize with the established historic character. 2024 brings fresh perspectives on this timeless material, with designers pushing the boundaries of color, texture, and application. Get ready for a surge of color, texture play, and a renewed appreciation for classic styles!

Sustainable Heritage Materials Meet Modern Demands

Environmental consciousness is shaping material selection in the Huntington Station renovation projects. Sustainable masonry materials, such as recycled stone and bricks, low-emission mortars, and innovative, green manufacturing processes, are helping projects achieve green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM. This sustainability focus allows developers to honor the area’s historic character while meeting contemporary environmental standards.

As environmental concerns continue to drive industry standards, the use of sustainable and recycled materials in masonry work is becoming increasingly popular. This year, more projects are incorporating bricks made from recycled materials such as glass and plastic, which not only reduce waste but also offer unique aesthetic options. Additionally, the development of “green” bricks—composed of bio-based materials—aims to lower carbon emissions associated with traditional brick firing processes.

Local Supply Chain Advantages

For contractors and property owners involved in Huntington Station renovations, having access to reliable local suppliers is crucial. Jos.M.Troffa Materials Corporation is a premier landscape and masonry supply company. Located in the town of Setauket, we have been expertly servicing both commercial and residential customers throughout Long Island since 1972. This established presence provides the consistency and expertise needed for heritage-focused projects.

Their 8-acre site is chock-full of the finest quality masonry supplies, such as paving stones, gravel, retaining walls, bricks, and stone veneers. These materials come from some of the best names in the masonry industry, including EP Henry Pavers, Belgard, Libertystone Pavers, General Shale, Endicott, and Gleny-Gery. When seeking quality Masonry Supply Huntington Station, NY contractors and developers can rely on established suppliers who understand both the technical requirements and aesthetic demands of heritage renovation projects.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The renovation activity in Huntington Station represents more than aesthetic improvements—it’s driving significant economic development. This project will implement roadway and pedestrian improvements along New York Avenue between Depot Road and 9th Street (11th Street if funding allows) to improve walkability, safety and attractiveness. These infrastructure improvements are creating sustained demand for masonry materials as both public and private projects move forward simultaneously.

The Town and its partners envision new attractive mixed-use buildings, a centralized park and public plaza, colorful pedestrian-friendly cross walks, the elimination of above-ground utility lines, bike safety improvements, new trees planted throughout the area, integrated informational and safety kiosks and facade improvements to existing buildings, all which will attract people to the downtown. The creation of aesthetically pleasing parklets throughout the area will create opportunities for people to gather with their neighbors and enjoy the many benefits of green space.

The convergence of historic preservation requirements, modern sustainability standards, and ambitious revitalization goals is creating a unique market opportunity for heritage brick materials in Huntington Station. As the community continues to evolve while honoring its railroad heritage, the demand for authentic, high-quality masonry materials will continue to grow, making this an exciting time for both suppliers and construction professionals working in this historic Long Island community.