Making Ourselves at Home
As we launch the first-ever Swell House blog post, we think it’s about time the world learned about the legacy of our downtown Rochester office, how we’re making it our own, and the neighborhood we’re so lucky to be a part of.
In 1915, the 1860s-era home on East Ave was owned by R. J. Strasenburgh – namesake of Strasenburgh Planetarium – and H. F. Remington. They funded the addition of two storefronts and more square footage, and it became 242-248 East Ave.
In 1919, it was sold to Leo August of the August Brothers, two of whom later went on to found Monro Muffler Brake & Service. It has since passed through several hands, but the early twentieth century tells the most important story of our beautiful space.
The star of this story is one Miss Meta Waltjen.
Before Waltjen’s Painters and Decorators moved into the building, it was home to another interior decoration business. It was primed for Meta to take over, and she was ready, having ran the business already for over a decade after her father’s death in 1909. He had immigrated from Germany at 17 and opened Waltjen’s Painters & Decorators in 1876.
A 1921 article in The Dutch Boy Painter highlighted her success. The author praised her, saying, “In her, the artistic instinct is particularly keen, and with it are coupled ambition and business ability.”
Waltjen gave comments for the article, and we can’t help but think her building was meant for us:
Oh yes, it’s easy to use a neutral color on the walls throughout the house and depend on the hangings, rugs, and furniture to lend tone and color to the different rooms; yet how much more individuality there is to the home where the color scheme for each room is carefully thought out with the idea of bringing out the best in a room and at the same time having the combined effect [be] one of harmony.
We couldn’t agree more. Every decision is part of the whole. Meta wanted contrasting colors to “liven up our spirits,” and emphasized studying décor everywhere – public buildings, offices, stores – to create a real home, “not just a painted house.”
In the time Waltjen’s Painters & Decorators operated in Rochester, they had a hand in projects of all sizes and styles, including commercial work for Eastman Kodak, Bausch & Lomb, the Cutler Building, and several theaters in the city. Their residential portfolio boasted work in the homes of George Eastman, John Jacob Bausch, Rochester Mayor Isaac Adler, and many other prominent Rochesterians in the early 1900s.
So you see, we understand the significance of Swell House living in this space. Over 100 years ago, this building was home to a woman-run painting and decorating company. Today, it is home to a woman-founded, woman-run interior design company.
Meta walked so we could run, and as we make this space our own, we know it wouldn’t be possible without her and the legacies of all female entrepreneurs who have made such strides and successes over the last century.
Each design choice has been intentional in making the office feel welcoming, modern, and full of life, while keeping in mind the history behind it all.
And in finding this space for Swell, we’ve found a piece of ourselves. As though Meta Waltjen herself kept it warm for us. In the heart of the city, we’re nestled among so many small businesses; we couldn’t be happier.
And our neighbors? We won’t brag. Too much.
On one side, The Little Theater, open since 1929, proudly stands today through several changes in ownership and endless commitment to preserving the legacy of the only movie theater in downtown Rochester. On the other sits Goodman Bakes, the Puerto-Rican-owned small-batch bakery. What’s better for business meetings than freshly baked pastries from next door?
Each day brings us the opportunity to experience something new in the neighborhood. Maybe we’ll grab a coffee at the legendary Java’s Café, pick out a floral arrangement at Arena’s, or spend an afternoon seeking inspiration at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center.
Swell House Co is exactly where it’s meant to be, and we’re so happy to be here.
Bringing the vision for this office to life has allowed us to closely examine how we approach commercial interiors. Materials and furnishings can make an office feel warm and comfortable, while still being functional and professional, and distinctly Swell.
This has been a labor of love, and we’re so excited to welcome you into our space. A special thank you to architect Christopher Brandt (@rocitect) for sharing the history and details that helped bring this story to life.
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