Skinny House

The Skinny House is a three-story residence at 175 Grand Street in Mamaroneck built from salvaged materials and only about 10 feet wide. Inside are two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, and a bathroom arranged across the levels with multiple windows for light.

Nathan T. Seely built this residence in 1932 during the Great Depression after a neighbor donated a narrow strip of land for construction. The project showed determination and building skill during a time of economic hardship.

The residence embodies the skill of one of New York's pioneering African American builders and shows how resourcefulness during hard times could create a livable home. Walking through it, you can see how available materials were used cleverly to make the space work.

The narrow layout means visitors should expect tight spaces and move slowly to explore all levels safely. Comfortable shoes are recommended since there are stairs and varied flooring, with changing light conditions on upper floors.

Railroad tracks serve as support beams in the basement, showing inventive use of industrial materials for the foundation. Parts of a chicken coop were actually incorporated into the living room construction.

Location: Mamaroneck

Inception: 1932

Address: 175 Grand Street

GPS coordinates: 40.95472,-73.74250

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:29