Springs General Store Proposes New Renovation Changes
Owners seek to raise the first floor by 18 inches to accommodate a basement cooler, pending an upcoming board review.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Home Renovation
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Owners of the Springs General Store have requested significant modifications to their previously approved renovation plans, including raising the first floor by 18 inches. The East Hampton Planning Board is set to review these updated proposals, which impact the historic structure that has been closed since late-summer 2022.
Why it matters
The proposed changes aim to consolidate storage by adding a basement cooler, but require major structural work including the demolition of the foundation and second floor. These adjustments follow a significant $131,567 town grant awarded in July 2026 to modernize the property's septic infrastructure.
The project requires demolishing the foundation and second floor of the 1844 structure while raising the first floor 18 inches to accommodate basement storage. These plans remain pending review against a $131,567 septic grant awarded by the town in July 2026.
The players
Springs General Store
A historic East Hampton site built in 1844 that has remained closed for four years.
East Hampton Planning Board
The local authority responsible for reviewing and approving renovation and structural modification requests for town properties.
The details
The developers intend to integrate a basement cooler, which necessitates raising the first floor height and replacing the existing foundation and crawlspace. Because the building is historic, the plan also includes $170,000 for facade protection during the demolition of the second floor and the structural elevation. Construction is estimated to take at least one year once full permits are finalized following the board's review.
Timeline
Late-summer 2022: The Springs General Store closed.
January 15, 2025: Initial renovation plans were approved.
July 2026: The town awarded a $131,567 septic system grant.
October 21, 2026: The planning board will meet to discuss the modification requests.
The Home Front
The proposed demolition and structural elevation at the Springs General Store marks a departure from standard restoration procedures under the East Hampton Historic District building code. Such extensive modifications highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing modern structural requirements with the preservation of historic local architecture.
Neighbors should monitor the outcome of the October 21 meeting to understand how the construction timeline might affect nearby traffic and local access. If you are planning similar structural elevations for an older home, ensure you consult with a licensed structural engineer regarding foundation-replacement feasibility.
The takeaway
Large-scale historic renovations often face delays when plans move beyond simple repair into major structural alterations. Property owners should document all design modifications clearly before appearing before local boards to avoid future permit hurdles.
Further reading
Learn more about local standards for property improvements in the Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by East Hampton Star.
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