The new owners of a historic property in downtown Phoenix are planning a full restoration.
Built in 1912, the Tudor Revival-style home sits on a double lot at Third Avenue and Willetta Street. It features steeply pitched gables and diamond-paned windows. The architect was Leighton Knipe, who also designed Tempe City Hall and various local banks.
Originally built for George H. and Mabel M. Lutgerding, it was also used as a boarding house during the Great Depression and World War II. For the past 50 years, it was used as a group home.
According to a report filed with the City Council, the new owners, Johnny and Criselda Sweet, expect to spend $600,00 to rehabilitate it, and they’re asking for $199,500 from the city’s Phil Gordon Threatened Building grant funds to support exterior renovations. The council must approve the grant.
The property was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a contributor to the Kenilworth Historic District in 1983 and listed in the Phoenix Historic Property Register as part of the Roosevelt District in 1986.
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