Brooklyn

While we can’t quite own up to being a star student, we were definitely excited to learn a little more about this hidden gem located at 199 Warren Street in a late 1880’s landmarked schoolhouse. Rest assured, you won’t find any blackboards here – though they probably wouldn’t seem out of place given this home’s curious aesthetic. Each room has a distinct personality that offers a wonderful lesson (see what we did just there?) in the charm of eclectic design.
See why this co-op more than makes the grade

Distinctive Homes

August 15, 2014

$3M Turn-of-the-Century Clinton Hill Brownstone is Not Updated or Modern – and Absolutely Stunning

The minute we laid eyes on the interior of this 4,400-square-foot home at 331 Washington Avenue in Clinton Hill we knew we happened upon something special. While it’s true the million dollar listings we typically feature boast some of the most gorgeously renovated spaces in the city, there’s no denying the timeless beauty of this turn-of-the-century residence built in 1899. Located in the heart of the Clinton Hill Historic District, the dramatic scale and original details at every turn evoke the grandeur of Brooklyn’s most prestigious homes. The gracious parlor entrance with an original pier mirror and striking dark wood staircase sets the tone for the rest of the interior. Sure the treads on the stairs are worn and tattered, but look at that gorgeous wood; a little refinishing and your entryway will be transformed into a magnificent first impression.
Check out the incredible home here

Distinctive Homes

August 14, 2014

Extra! Extra! Read All About.…This Exquisite Newswalk Condo in Prospect Heights

Built in 1927, 535 Dean Street once housed the printing facility for the New York Daily News. For over 70 years the nightly presses delivered the latest local happenings to millions of New Yorkers in time for their morning coffee. These days, thanks to a 2002 condo conversion, residents can read their morning paper in grand style (though we aren’t sure if the New York Times is permitted on the premises).
Extra! Extra! Read More About It!

Distinctive Homes

August 14, 2014

$2.3 Million Prospect-Lefferts Garden Townhouse Could be a Historic Movie Set

When you've traveled the world making documentaries about topics ranging from the "greening" of Big Oil to life in North Korea, you're probably a little hard to impress. So this circa 1898 Romanesque Revival townhouse really must have made an impression on filmmaker Peter Yost. He and his wife snatched up the circa 1898 house at 66 Midwood Street in Prospect-Lefferts Gardens for $2.3 million according to city records, coming in over the $1,975,000 listing price. The five-bedroom house has been renovated to both preserve its historic elements and provide updated, modern amenities.
Ogle all of the home's period details

Distinctive Homes

August 13, 2014

Fort Greene Co-op Puts You Squarely in the Middle of Brownstone Paradise

There’s a reason Forgotten New York toyed with the label “Brownstone Paradise” for Fort Greene’s South Portland Avenue and Time Out New York named it one of the “50 Best Blocks in NYC”: living here is like owning a little slice of heaven. When you think of a classic brownstone, 21 South Portland Avenue is exactly what comes to mind – along with all of its similar-looking neighbors on both sides of the street. On closer inspection, the varying ornamentation becomes apparent, and each building exudes its own distinct personality, contributing to the street’s reputation as one of Brooklyn’s most coveted and gorgeous.
Check out what's inside this beautiful brownstone

Distinctive Homes

August 13, 2014

454 Rugby Road Joins the Million-Dollar-Sale Club in Victorian Flatbush

We tend to feature a lot of historic townhouses, and while we love these brownstone beauties, it's always a treat when we come across the less-common Victorian home. Not surprisingly, this charming, free-standing house is located in Ditmas Park West, part of what is known as Victorian Flatbush. Built in 1905, the home at 454 Rugby Road recently sold for $1,975,000 million according to city records, almost $100,000 above the asking price and not far behind another recent Rugby Road sale that was one of the most expensive in the neighborhood to date.
See why this painted lady is a deserving member of Victorian Flatbush's Million-Dollar Club

August 8, 2014

Humberto Leon is Second Opening Ceremony Cofounder in a Week to Buy a Brooklyn Townhouse

Last week we learned that Opening Ceremony cofounder Carol Lim picked up a $3.43 million Prospect Heights townhouse, and it looks like her partner Humberto Leon got a bit of apartment envy, because he too just purchased a brownstone in nearby Park Slope. The two fashion magnates met 19 years ago at the University of California, Berkeley and have been joined at the hip ever since, turning their brand into an international destination for streetwise style. So it's no wonder that their homes share a few similarities; both are four stories, have picturesque backyard spaces, and retain a good amount of historic details. According to city records, Leon nabbed his new digs at 758 Union Street for the asking price of $2.85 million.
READ MORE

August 6, 2014

14 New Designs Proposed for Brooklyn Bridge Park Project – BIG, Asymptote and FXFOWLE on the Roster

The city has just received 14 new design proposals for the two remaining housing developments on the southern edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park, a site that has been the focus of a contentious affordable housing debate; namely whether such units should be added to the coveted waterfront site. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corp., which runs the park, will discuss the new proposals in a meeting today.
See all 14 proposals here

August 6, 2014

Daily Link Fix: Artist Turns People Into NYC Landmarks; Wearing This Pendant Can Convert Kinetic Energy into Electricity

By Alyssa Alimurung

Artist Camouflages Her Human Canvases In NYC Scenescapes: You’ve never seen body art like this. Daily Mail features Trina Merry making people practically disappear in Central Park, in front of the Gugg, and on bridges. Domino Sugars Sign Will Be Relocated: NYDN reports that the iconic sign will be taken down this month, but then […]

August 5, 2014

Studio Modh Transforms Former Servants’ Quarters Into a Modern Light-Filled Space

Back in the day, in even the most luxurious of homes, sleeping quarters reserved for servants weren't much more than cramped, musty spaces that lacked light. Though the top floor of this landmarked Brooklyn Heights mansion probably hasn't seen a feather duster in years (a Dyson, maybe) this newly renovated space is anything but dim and dank. A total revamp undertaken by Studio Modh Archtecture, this modern apartment is the seamless fusion of two formerly disparate spaces that have been reconfigured to create a bright, beautiful and serene home.
Check out how Studio Modh Updated the space

Distinctive Homes

August 4, 2014

Greenland Forest City Partners Selects COOKFOX and Thomas Balsley for Pacific Park Brooklyn (Formerly Atlantic Yards)

Forest City Ratner Companies and Greenland USA, a subsidiary of Shanghai-based Greenland Group, announced today that their new joint venture, Greenland Forest City Partners, has selected COOKFOX Architects to design two residential buildings at their Pacific Park Brooklyn project. They've also chosen Thomas Balsley Associates to design the site's eight-acre public park, which will be called Pacific Park. Formerly known as Atlantic Yards, Pacific Park Brooklyn will be a 22-acre site anchored by the Barclays Center and containing 8 million square feet of mixed-use development. The public park will be revealed in phases, with permanent and temporary installations. COOKFOX has begun the design for its two residential buildings-- 550 Vanderbilt Avenue, set to feature 275 condominiums, and 535 Carlton Avenue, which will have approximately 300 affordable rentals. Construction is expected to begin on the latter this December, with 550 Vanderbilt not far behind. A third residential building will be designed by SHoP Architects, who were the minds behind the Barclays Center, at 30 Sixth Avenue with another 300 affordable rentals.
Much more on the project here

August 1, 2014

Daily Link Fix: The Lost Tree of Ground Zero; LGBT Barbershop Plans To Open in Brooklyn

By Alyssa Alimurung

Summer Streets Is Here!: Time to break out the bike and ride the open roads. Summer Streets closes down streets in Brooklyn and Manhattan for biking, zip-lining, running, yoga and other activities. Find out where to find the annual program at The New York Times. LGBT Barbershop Coming To Crown Heights: DNAinfo reports that hair stylist, […]

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July 31, 2014

Charming Italianate-Style Townhome in Fort Greene Sells for $3.3 Million

By Aisha Carter

The one-to-two family dwelling at 20 South Oxford Street must have made quite an impression on a few buyers. An apparent bidding war drove the price up from its initial $2.65 million asking to a final sale price of $3.3 million, according to city records. Located on a quiet, tree-lined street in the Fort Greene Historic District, this three-story Italianate-style home has a garden-level apartment with a separate entrance that can serve as an income suite or a fourth level. In addition, the home boasts high ceilings; a large backyard accented by a 123-square-foot deck; and many original details from its 1854 inception, including original marble mantles on each of the home’s six decorative fireplaces.
Take a look inside, here

July 28, 2014

Hold Your Horses, This Clinton Hill Carriage House is Younger Than You Think

Take a walk down this carriage house-lined block of Vanderbilt Avenue in the Clinton Hill Historic District, and you'll feel like you've been transported back to the 19th century. And in fact, most of the historic homes haven't changed much since then, except for number 407. Though this brick beauty blends in seamlessly with its fellow carriage houses, it was actually constructed in 2006 after receiving approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The four-story home has the look and feel of an old-time structure, but offers a modern layout and contemporary conveniences, plus it boasts 6,592 square feet of interior space and two outdoor oases.
Take a tour through the carriage house

Distinctive Homes

July 28, 2014

Brooklyn Family Expands Fort Greene Townhouse with Airy Garden Pavilion by O’Neill McVoy Architects

By Patty Lee

Few things look more out of place than a clunky new addition to a beautiful historic house, especially in a neighborhood as quaint and peaceful as tree-lined Fort Greene. So when the owners of this 19th-century townhouse wanted to expand and make room for two growing teenage daughters, they sought out a team who could do it seamlessly: Beth O'Neill and Chris McVoy of O'Neill McVoy Architects.
Check out the lovely new addition straight ahead

July 26, 2014

Sunny Park Slope Townhouse Gets an Artsy Makeover from The Brooklyn Home Company

From making the list of most popular baby names, to having whole stores devoted to its wares, Brooklyn has become quite the brand these days. But for a classic feel of living in the borough that bucks trends, we can always look to The Brooklyn Home Company for their tasteful, functional, and timeless spaces — like this stunning 5th Street Park Slope townhouse. The firm undertook the entire interior/exterior renovation, as well as the nine-foot extension that was added to the garden and parlor floors, those which the building owners occupy. They transformed the space with a mix of historic and modern details, custom built-ins, and impressive millwork. During the demolition, the original beams were discovered behind the drop ceiling, a feature that was left exposed and now anchors the entire living space.
Take a tour through the rest of this expertly crafted home

July 25, 2014

Bull Head Not Included in This Cheery Fort Greene Apartment

This apartment might not come with that funky piece of western decor, but don't let that deter you just yet. This cheery one bedroom apartment has plenty more to offer. If the bright, light-filled rooms don't sell you, maybe the private terrace will. Still want more? How about the unit's location in the Meltzer Mandl Architects-designed Clermont Greene? The sleek, curving residential is an ultra modern super abode, and best of all, comes with a large, beautifully landscaped courtyard.
See what else this Brooklyn apartment hides

Distinctive Homes

July 22, 2014

Explore Some of NYC’s Most Beautiful Buildings That Used to be Banks

By Jason Carpenter

Banking made this town, and the bank buildings of the 19th and early 20th centuries continue to house some of New York's most classic architecture and design. Greek, Roman, and even Byzantine Revival architectures were the style of choice for bank buildings, and those great stone pillars are still worth visiting today. Ahead are some of the most beautiful former bank buildings in New York City.
See these beautiful bank buildings here

July 16, 2014

Mayor Bill De Blasio Proposes to Transform Downtown Brooklyn

By Aisha Carter

Mayor Bill de Blasio is set to make a proposal on Wednesday that will launch an initiative to transform Downtown Brooklyn into a community that will rival some of its brownstone counterparts. The area has undoubtedly grown significantly over the last decade with new restaurants and cultural institutions that have attracted an influx of residents. However locals feel that the area still feels a bit disconnected. De Blasio’s plan aims to create a greater sense of community in the neighborhood.
Find out more about the proposal here

Real Estate Trends

July 14, 2014

Tim Seggerman’s Wooden Brooklyn Townhouse Extension Blends Nordic and Japanese Design

By Ana Lisa Alperovich

Architect Tim Seggerman renovated an extended a Brooklyn Brownstone blending Finnish and Japanese aesthetics in a beautiful way. Located in Cobble Hill, this family home was re-conceived in a modern way, respecting its traditional brownstone facade with a surprising extension at the back. Using a variety of wood that includes white oak, mahogany, bamboo, teak and ash, the local architect turned this Brooklyn dwelling into a stylish comfortable place to live.
Tour the home here

July 10, 2014

Classic $2.1M Park Slope Co-Op Is Right at Home in One of NYC’s Most Desirable Neighborhoods

Newer isn’t necessarily better. Over 100 years ago architect Henry Pohlman built the elegant “apartment house” at 261 Garfield Place where you will find this refined yet cozy co-op on the market for $2.1 million. And while we doubt Mr. Pohlman could ever have imagined even the entire building selling for that price, much less a single apartment, it is clear he took great pride in his work. Throughout the 3BR/2BA residence period details abound, with high ceilings, parquet flooring, ceiling medallions, and decorative moulding at every turn. And a wide gallery/hallway leads you from one end of the home to the other.
See more of this classic home in a classic neighborhood

Distinctive Homes

July 10, 2014

Brooklyn Rents on the Rise With Crown Heights and Bed-Stuy Leading the Charge; Manhattan Rents Relatively Stable

This past week there has been a lot of talk about Crown Heights and Bed-Stuy finally having their "moment", and it looks like there are numbers in to back that up. MNS's June rental market report for Brooklyn and Manhattan reveal that both developers and renters are looking to move away from saturated areas like Williamsburg and DUMBO. By MNS's measure, average rents in Brooklyn increased from $2,556 to $2,741, or 6.2%, as compared with June of last year — very much driven by rent hikes in gentrifying areas. Manhattan rents on the other hand fell just slightly.
More on the Brooklyn and Manhattan rental markets here

Real Estate Trends

July 8, 2014

New Renderings of Two Trees’ BAM South Tower Highlight Views, Green Roofs and Space for Outdoor Markets

New images of the BAM South Tower at 286 Ashland Place have emerged and come courtesy of the project's landscape architect, Grain Collective. The renderings hint not only at the incredible views that will be afforded by the new tower, but the major rehaul of the public spaces along Fulton Street, Ashland Place and Lafayette Avenue. The new streetscaping plan will add much needed green space to the barren concrete quarter, with plenty of room for outdoor activities and events for patrons of BAM and BRIC, as well as local residents, to enjoy.
More of what's to come here

July 7, 2014

Permits Filed for SHoP’s 36-Story Tower at the Domino Sugar Refinery

The transformation of the Domino Sugar Refinery is moving full steam ahead with Two Trees Development filing their first permits for their 36-story SHoP-designed tower at 320 Kent Avenue. The 401-foot glass tower will be one of the tallest of the mega development, sited alongside the Williamsburg Bridge.
More on the tower here

July 5, 2014

Brooklyn’s ‘A Cabin in a Loft’ Transforms a Space with Two Treehouse-Like Bedrooms