Historic Window Replacement at West End Neighborhood House

In the heart of Wilmington’s historic Little Italy district, West End Neighborhood House stands as both a landmark and a lifeline. Since 1883, the building has been a cornerstone for an ethnically, economically and culturally diverse community, adapting over time to serve evolving needs. Originally built as a church in the early 1900s, later known as The Resurrection Center in 1977, and today functioning as West End Neighborhood House, the structure carries deep historical and cultural significance. Any updates to the exterior needed to honor that history while equipping the facility for decades of continued service.

The building’s character is defined by its brick masonry, soaring steeple and distinctive arched windows. To maintain that identity while upgrading performance, the project collaborated to select Pella Reserve Traditional windows. The Reserve line is known for its historically accurate through-stile construction, authentic proportions and detailed profiles—elements that are especially important in heritage-sensitive work. 

A combination of single-hung and casement units were installed alongside specialty shapes, including a prominent circular window and two direct-set configurations. Custom grille patterns were fabricated to replicate the look of the original windows, ensuring that the visual rhythm of the façade remained intact. This design flexibility made it possible to meet modern performance expectations without compromising the authenticity of the building’s architectural story.

Replacing windows in a structure that dates back more than a century requires more than off-the-shelf solutions. The installation team had to work with irregular masonry, varied jamb depths and non-standard openings—conditions common in older buildings. Frame expanders, curved casings and customized sealants were all employed to integrate the new units cleanly into the existing envelope. These details not only ensured a tight weather seal but also preserved interior finishes and prevented moisture intrusion, critical for long-term durability in a community facility. 

By using Reserve’s adaptable product configurations and precision field verification, the team avoided costly structural changes while still achieving the performance and fit required for a commercial environment. The result was an installation that elevated comfort and efficiency while preserving the architectural continuity of the façade.

Delivering a project of this complexity required close collaboration between multiple partners. EDiS Construction, a fifth-generation regional contractor, provided the construction management expertise necessary to coordinate sequencing and field logistics across trades. Their role ensured that the window replacement process caused minimal disruption to the ongoing operations of West End Neighborhood House. 

Architectural Alliance, Inc., an award-winning firm with more than 35 years of experience in adaptive reuse and restoration, guided the design. Their input was instrumental in balancing the visual fidelity of the replacement units with modern performance standards and code requirements. Together with Pella professionals, these partners created a solution that respected the building’s past while preparing it for the future.

With Pella Reserve Traditional windows now integrated into the structure, West End Neighborhood House benefits from improved thermal performance, better sound control and reduced maintenance—advantages that will directly support its daily operations. Just as importantly, the building retains the architectural presence that has made it a recognizable landmark in Wilmington for more than a century. For contractors, architects and builders, this project demonstrates the value of pairing authentic design with modern performance. Reserve Traditional’s capacity for customization, combined with expert installation and strong partnerships, proved essential in overcoming the challenges of historic replacement. The result is a building that continues to serve its community with dignity, efficiency, and enduring architectural integrity.