In Soho, one of New York City’s first power substations has become one of its most sought-after listings. 214 Lafayette Street, home to the substation that once delivered power to countless subways below, is the brainchild of architect Peter Guzy (Asfour Guzy Architects) and the property’s current owner, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre director Marcus Nispel.

The project, 12 years in the making, is now a five-story, four-bedroom townhouse. The circa-1890s building still has its original beams, barrel-vaulted ceilings, skylights and exposed red brick walls, charming the modern space into a vintage haven for a pre-modernized look at New York.

But the space isn’t just homage to the city’s earlier days; it’s also a breeding ground for trinkets and personal pieces from Nispel’s travels, including floodlights from the Staten Island Ferry and stone from a monastery in the South of France, laid out in both the kitchen and bathroom. Modern touches abound, as well: an elevator connects the charming five-story townhouse and purple velvet couches adorn the space. The landmark even has its own eight-foot-deep indoor pool that can be viewed in the first-floor lobby and through portholes in one of the guest bedrooms.

Nothing about the space is quaint, but an office, library and expansive terrace overlooking the city add a homey, comfortable touch. The property is rented out on a daily, weekly and monthly basis for $20,000, $50,000 and $80,000 respectively.