History & Transformation
the evolution of takk house
Previously a Knights of Columbus building, The Takk House has been transformed into a unique one of a kind space featuring original breathtaking architecture, beautiful wrapping staircases, ballroom, custom designed Bride and Groom suites for getting ready, newly renovated restrooms and food staging facilities.
Our large, open floor plan allows you the ultimate canvas for creativity, and we pride ourselves in embracing that! The flexibility of the space lets you stick with its minimalist beauty or create a one of a kind atmosphere – it’s up to you and your imagination and vision. Whether you are looking to do something totally DIY or need a little extra help with details we are here to help!
55 Third Street in Troy, New York, was built in 2 main stages. The original structure, a grand Victorian city home, was built in 1865 by William Farnham. Early photos show a side porch, and we assume there was a carriage house and garden in the rear. In 1889, it was purchased by the Frear Brothers, who operated a successful department store in Troy. They converted the building to mixed commercial use, housing a lawyer’s office, rug merchant, tailor and hat shop. The Frears also sold the side porch area of the property, resulting in an L-shaped lot with a 30′ frontage, 50′ width at the rear, and a depth of 130′.
Day of the Knights | In 1918 the Knights of Columbus purchased the property, and developed a major expansion to the rear, featuring a two-story ballroom, third floor gymnasium, and a 4-lane bowling alley in the basement. This addition uses steel I-beam construction, which allows for the large expanse of the rooms, without the need for support columns. Both the 1865 and 1920 structures are incredibly well built, still plumb and solid. The Knights thrived in their clubhouse, and in the 1970’s they modernized the bathrooms, kitchen, plumbing, electrical and reconfigured some spaces. In the 1990’s the Knights Council struggled financially, and fell behind on building maintenance and property taxes, finally losing the building to the City of Troy in 1999.
Takk means “thank you” in Icelandic. Pronounced “tock,” as in “tick-tock,” the sound a clock makes. The “thank you” house? Well, yes! The basis of most celebrations is gratitude. Thank you for coming. Thank you for inviting us. Thank you for everything you’ve done. Thank you for being in our lives. Thank you for caring.
Takk House is the house of gratitude. A space to celebrate with the people in your life that you are thankful for. Takk. ♥︎
Virtual Tour
Unique Spaces of Takk House
Getting Ready Suites
Located on the 2nd floor, the bridal suites boast beautiful natural light, a soft color palette, antique furniture, and everything you’ll need to feel comfortable the morning of your wedding. Created as a hideaway for brides, bridal/baby showers, small parties and photo shoots, they are straight out of a catalog with jaw dropping details and a hint of feminine perfection. You won't want to leave. Arrive as early as 9:00am and enjoy a breakfast board while the morning light dancings on the walls. Amenities for The Rosemary include a toaster oven, coffee maker, large dining table, and champagne fridge. Amenities for The Sage include adjustable salon chairs, makeup stations, a garment rack, changing and sitting areas.
Overlook Lounge
This mezzanine balcony private bar space is located on the 2nd floor and overlooks the ballroom. It has VIP written all over it! It is a wonderful space for a private cocktail hour for you and your wedding party or an extension of your cocktail hour upstairs. Setup a secondary bar and food spread on the 2nd floor to give your guests a “wandering” experience of the building. It has a 1920's club style. Enjoy a performance, private cocktail hour or just get a birds eye view of the party. This room has the best view in the house!
The Ballroom
Vast open floor plan with original wood flooring, amazing 20 foot ceilings, paper lanterns and romantic string lights draped throughout. Our ballroom holds up to 120 seated guests in a variety of different table configurations based on our couples needs. Beautiful original architecture makes this room truly unique!
Roof Top
A complete jaw-dropping photography opportunity! Overlooking downtown, this adventure is worth the effort in every season! A great place to have your first look or sunset photos. This option is only offered to our wedding clients and is limited to just the couple and photographer. *Please keep in mind that you must climb multiple ladders to enter the roof hatch.
The Green Room
Tucked downstairs with vintage charm and a dash of rock-and-roll energy, The Green Room is our retro-inspired hangout space — perfect for getting ready, pre-ceremony lunch, or just kicking back with your crew before the big moment. Records on the walls, good vibes all around. After hours, it can turn into a karaoke room 🎤
Historically, it used to be a barbershop in the 1960’s
Bar/Parlor
A beautiful multipurpose space used for welcoming guests, cocktail hours, rehearsal dinners, restaurant pop ups, private chef dinners, bridal showers, farewell bunches, baby showers, and other intimate gatherings. Full of character this space is truly magical. The possibilities are endless.
