The Owners of two adjacent buildings located on a corner lot in the Fort Greene section of Brooklyn wanted to maximize their property's value by increasing the commercial ground floor space, as well as renovate the four existing apartments on the upper floors, and build as many additional units as possible above.

Daedalus Workshop was asked to provide Design and Architectural Services. However, since the Owners had not yet researched the market needs for the area, a Feasibility, Site and Market Analysis was proposed first, with the subsequent design of the project to be based on the Report.

Project Team: Richard Lucas; Lydia Kiehborth; Thomas Petersen; Adrielle Slaugh

Growing in popularity and development, it was discovered that new construction in the Fort Greene area provides only 'developer'-grade apartment buildings with few amenities, very little design integrity and interior personality, and tends to disregard the local context in style, size and material texture, causing antagonism from area residents who prefer the existing density and character of their historic neighborhood.

The Report concluded that a contextually mindful, modestly sized development with personality, upscale amenities, and open floor plans would attract younger families and single residents with higher disposable incomes, while also appealing to the local community, resulting in greater profits and fewer obstacles for the property owners.

Based on the Report and allowable Zoning requirements, a 6- story 'loft' building concept with a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments was proposed and developed.

Intentionally industrial and factory-like in appearance, the exposed brick and Highength Concrete walls with steel and back-painted glass accents are complemented by solid wood flooring, walnut and white-washed oak cabinetry, concealed lighting and stitched leather panels, giving a warmth, character and richness to the project that other new developments in the area are lacking.

The apartment interiors will feature exposed concrete columns and 10' high ceilings that taper upward to 12' at exterior walls.

Balconies on every floor engage the neighborhood and give each unit added living space.

Bathrooms feature separate tub and shower areas, back-lit mirrors, black granite countertops, White Thassos marble tiles with silver and gold Bisazza mosaic accents.

Enlarged window openings and extensive, open floor plans provide a variety of options for living, dining, and entertaining.

Soon after the preliminary Report was presented to the Owners, the project was put on hold indefinitely. Daedalus Workshop, however, continued to develop the Interior Design of the Apartments and overall marketing potential for the project, in case the Owners decide to revive the development in the near future.