DUMBO Development

[Derek2k3]

There's a thread on the neighborhood here
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2906

Project #1
53 Bridge Street
Scarano & Associates Architects
Dev-Kay Bridge Properties /53 Bridge, LLC
12 stories 162 feet 6 story addition
130,740 Sq. Ft.
Residential Condominiums
Under Construction 2004-2006

http://mehandeseng.com/images/53_bridge.jpg

http://mehandeseng.com/projects.htm

53 Bridge Street
Brooklyn , New York
Architect: Scarano and Associates Architects
Square Foot: 150,000
Owner: Kay Bridge Properties

[Derek2k3]

Project #2

Beacon Tower
85 Adams Street
23 stories 314 feet
Cetra/Ruddy Incorporated
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
77 units 115,424 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-Summer 2006

http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/imagesEng/D10H/US_images/USadams85193.jpg

http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/US_011.asp

Project Name: 85 Adams Street

Location/Neighborhood: Brooklyn/DUMBO

Address: 85 Adams Street

Project Objective: Located almost directly beneath the Manhattan Bridge , this ideal corner assemblage will soon become the site of a new 10-story luxury residential development. Surrounded by improved neighborhood buildings, this is one of the last available redevelopment sites in DUMBO. The project is a parcel of three lots, located three blocks from the waterfront redevelopment, the Empire Stores, and several other A.I. & Boymelgreen projects. It is an excellent opportunity to revitalize the community and provide additional housing in the area.

Total Buildout sf: 100,000

Use: Residential

New Construction sf: 100,000

Parking: 1 level below grade

Residential sf: 100,000

Transportation: Direct driving access exists from the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges with additional access via the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Ferry transportation between DUMBO and Manhattan is a three-minute walk from the development site. Five (5) subway lines are conveniently located within walking distance, to include the A,C,F,2, and 3 trains.

Approximate Completion: 3/2005



http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/17/g...gewanted=1&8dpc

Condos Break Sound Barrier
By MOTOKO RICH

Published: February 17, 2005

THE challenge to the developers of Beacon Towers, a high-rise going up just steps from the Manhattan Bridge in Brooklyn, was apparent one morning last week as Denis R. Milsom, an expert in noise control, strained to be heard above the din of a subway train rumbling over the bridge. "Clearly, if they want to sell this as a luxury building," he said in the construction office a block from the site, "having this kind of noise pass by every two or three minutes would be objectionable."

The developer, Leviev Boymelgreen, is marketing Beacon Tower as an oasis of "Zenlike calm," despite a location that evokes not an oasis but that scene in "Annie Hall" in which a young Alvy Singer sits at a rattling kitchen table beneath the Coney Island roller coaster.

When Mr. Milsom, a partner in Shen Milsom & Wilke, measured the noise at the site, it came in at 96 decibels - about the same as a crowded bar with a D.J. spinning hip-hop discs. To mitigate the din, and to help sell the condos, some of which will cost more than $2 million, Mr. Milsom recommended sound-muffling windows from a company that makes them for airport terminals. The architects, Cetra/Ruddy, meanwhile altered the blueprints, converting the original squat eight stories into a slender 23-story tower, so that many of its 79 units will simply try to rise above the noise.

As developers in hectic real estate markets like New York, Boston, Chicago and San Francisco run out of land, new condominiums and rental apartments are going up in some earsplitting places: near bridges, freeway ramps, rail lines and bus terminals. Also multiplying are specialized soundproofing windows and creative designs to limit the exposure of residents to the racket. "Because development opportunities for new construction are so hard to come by, the sites you tend to come by have some challenge," said Sara Mirski, the director of development at Boymelgreen.

In San Francisco, Charles Salter, an acoustical engineer, said his firm was handling about four times as many projects involving sound problems in residential developments as it did five years ago. He regularly recommends that developers install laminated glass and extra layers of gypsum board in the walls to insulate condos from outside noise.

In Chicago, Brian Homans, the president of Shiner & Associates, acoustics consultants, said so many suburbanites are clamoring to move downtown that developers are seizing orphan properties abutting elevated subway lines and commuter rail depots. "A majority of our jobs focus on noise from trains," Mr. Homans said.

He recommended triple-glazed windows for a 37-story tower known as the Residences at RiverBend, because its west facade overlooks the nexus of several elevated subway and commuter train lines. The original developer, Bejco Development Corporation, now defunct, rejected the suggestion as too costly, said Carl Moskus, the building's architect, but the design helped reduce noise: a five-foot-wide hallway along the west facade provides a kind of buffer between residents and trains.

Stephen Pokorny, 60, a lawyer who bought a condo on the 29th floor, said he rarely hears them. Having moved into the city to cut short a 29-mile commute from the suburbs, he added, "I was not overly critical about the noise."

Indeed, city dwellers must accept a certain level of noise, and many take fire engines, police sirens and honking horns as a given. But when developers choose unusually loud sites next to train tracks or freeway ramps, some buyers can expect a break. "The general principle is that if you don't properly mitigate the noise problem, you will have to offer your apartments at a discount," said Jay Schippers, the head of the development division of the Corcoran Group in Brooklyn. But, he added, "if a developer properly solves the sound problem, then there will be no discount."

On noisy sites, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to get fresh air into apartments without opening the windows. At 301 Mission Street in San Francisco, a 60-story condo tower rising next to a bus terminal, a window wall will have two panes, one slightly thicker than the conventional quarter-inch, with half an inch between them to block the sound of buses. Special vents will bring in air through tiny holes in the mullions that anchor the windows to the building, said Glenn Rescalvo, one of its architects.

Some developers make noise control part of the pitch. When the sales office opens next month for the Beacon Tower condo in the Dumbo neighborhood (for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) in Brooklyn, buyers will be able to inspect a sample window: two half-inch-thick panes sandwiching eight inches of sound-deadening air. They will also be able to experience the difference between the noise with standard windows and the custom windows, by clamping on headsets and listening to a recording.

Mr. Milsom, the acoustics consultant, said the custom windows would reduce decibels to 40 inside from 96 outside, below the New York City zoning code maximum of 45 decibels, equivalent to a quiet conversation.

Eliot Locitzer, the construction manager, said the cost of installing the soundproofing windows was roughly double the cost for conventional windows. Mr. Schippers, who will be marketing the building at Corcoran, said there would be no discount on the prices, which will start around $400,000 for one-bedrooms, in part because of the views of Manhattan, but also because "there is no longer a noise problem."

Other developers prefer to sidestep the issue entirely. Brochures promoting the Arches, a new condo in a converted church in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, did not mention the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway around the corner. Lester Petracca, the owner of Triangle Equities, the lead developer of the Arches, said he did not see the point of advertising that fact. "People come and look at the surrounding area and look at whatever positives or negatives are there and decide whether they want to live there or not," he said.

The building has double-glazed windows, which are required by the New York State energy code for all new developments. Francis Lu, 31, a software developer who moved in this month, said they block out the traffic noise.

Homeowners in noisy neighborhoods are also beginning to seek help from the experts. Mr. Salter, in San Francisco, recently heard from the owner of an 1889 Victorian besieged by garbage trucks and other urban noisemakers in the expensive Pacific Heights neighborhood. Mr. Salter advised the owner, Dr. Roger Wu, a child psychiatrist, to install laminated glass windows, three-eighths of an inch thick, which will require rebuilding the historic window frames at a cost of more than $3,000 each. "Call me in about six months and ask me how it works," Dr. Wu said.

Noise pollution can be compounded when space-hungry developers build condos atop commercial property like hotels and restaurants. To insulate residents from experimental electronic music the developer of a condo above Dance Theater Workshop of New York on West 19th Street put down 10 inches of concrete between the third floor rehearsal studio and the condos, instead of the usual seven and a half inches, said Ed Rawlings, the project's architect. To further deaden the sound, he said, four layers of gypsum board and shock absorbers were suspended from the concrete slab into the rehearsal studio.

Amie Deutch, who lives in a unit just above the studio with her husband and 21-month-old son, said, "On a rare occasion, if they're rehearsing a dance routine where everybody jumps at the same time, you get a little bit of a vibration."

She added, "Otherwise, it's the most soundproof apartment I've ever lived in, in the city."

[Derek2k3]

Project # 3

The Nexus
84 Front Street
11 stories 120 feet
Meltzer Mandl Architects of Manhattan
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
44 units 72,302 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-Late 2005

http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/imagesEng/D10H/US_images/US004a_193x.jpg
(Rendering of the previous design)

http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/US_004.asp

Project Name: 84 Front Street

Location/Neighborhood: Brooklyn/DUMBO

Address: 84 Front Street

Project Objective: 100,000 sf of new residential development will revitalize this former warehouse site. 11 stories of luxury condominium living, dramatic views of the Manhattan Bridge and East River and an innovative design are a few notable project highlight. The design team created a unique fa c ade, which makes use of color, light and the building's moveable exterior components to energize the building at the street level. Hand selected glazing and modern architectural forms will contribute widely to neighborhood upgrades and building improvements currently underway in DUMBO.

Total Buildout sf: 100,000
Use: Residential

New Construction sf: 100,000

Parking: 1 level below grade

Residential sf: 100,000

No. of Units: 44

BDRMS per Unit: Mix of 1, 2 and 3 BDRMS

Transportation: Direct driving access from the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges with additional access via the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Ferry transportation between DUMBO and Manhattan is a three-minute walk from the development site. Five (5) subway lines are conveniently located within walking distance, to include the A,C,F,2, and 3 trains.

Approximate Completion: 12/2004



http://nypost.com/realestate/39411.htm

BROOKLYN'S NEW NEXUS

By ADAM BONISLAWSKI

January 29, 2005 -- DUMBO, with its cobblestone streets and aged warehouses, has a rich past. Architect Marvin Meltzer didn't see any reason to dwell on it, though.

In designing the neighborhood's latest luxury development, The Nexus, Meltzer set out to create something decidedly modern. "I think it called for an architectural vocabulary that says, 'This is a new construction,'" he says.

With an eye-grabbing glazed brick-and-metal-paneled facade, the building at 84 Front St. should get the message across.

"A warehouse with an edge," is what Elan Padeh, president and CEO of The Developers Group, a consulting company involved with the project, calls it.

It's not the "edge," though, that's likely to attract buyers.

Nexus units will feature Brazilian-walnut hardwood floors and bathrooms with mosaic stone tiles. The condo building will have a garage, a health club and a landscaped garden. A waterfall cascading through the lobby will add something of an exclamation point.

All of which further emphasizes that, though it might once have been a gritty artists' neighborhood between the bridges, DUMBO has become a prime site for high-toned residences.

Wall Streeter Costa Tsoutsoplides is looking to buy a one-bedroom condo in DUMBO. He placed a bid on a unit at 54 Front St., but withdrew it after realizing that the apartment would sit directly above a commercial space. He's now considering The Nexus, which will open in fall of 2005.

"I want a condo, not a co-op, and obviously there's a discount in DUMBO," Tsoutsoplides says. He also mentions the availability of parking as a lure.

With 56 units, the Nexus will offer one, two- and three-bedroom apartments, ranging from around 600 square feet to 2,000 square feet. Prices will begin in the high $400,000s and go up to $1.6 million for 12th-floor penthouses.

"My only second thoughts are about the real-estate market," Tsoutsoplides says. "We've had such huge increases. I think the market will probably be flat over the next few years. There are a lot of new buildings going up."

He goes on to say something that surely no developer anywhere ever wants to hear: "I'm still considering renting."



http://www.newyorkmetro.com/nymetro/realestate/advertorial/10910/

FACELIFT FOR DUMBO

The Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO is best known for its austere century-old concrete loft buildings - which is why Marvin H. Meltzer of Meltzer/Mandl Architects designed something completely different for his new building in DUMBO, The Nexus, at 84 Front Street.

When it is complete in 2005, The Nexus will be the largest residential building ever built from the ground up in DUMBO. It will, in fact, be similar in size to many of the nearby converted loft buildings.

“We tried to design something that fits in with its older neighbors but is also attractive and contemporary,” says Meltzer.

Rather than concrete, The Nexus’ facade is composed of metal panels and brick in tan and green. Behind the facade, there are 56 apartments, an on-site garage, a 1,500SF landscaped common garden and a health club. Buyers can also purchase private rooftop terraces for gardening, sunbathing and picnicking. Apartment prices range from $500,000 to $1.7 million.

[Archit_K]

110 York St.

Scarano's Firm

Project Manager/Designer: David Blaustein
Completion Date: January 2005
Location: Dumbo

http://www.scaranoarchitects.com/contentManaged/

The first time you stand on the roof of this one hundred year old building with its skyline views of New York City, the Manhattan Bridge on one side, and a busy expressway on the other, you realize the potential of this site.

The design for such a powerful location, which thousands of people come across daily, presented an exciting challenge.

The strategy we adopted was to create a structure that no one can ignore.

The leading concept was to sustain contextual elements on the site, and in contrast, to take these elements and embed them in innovative architecture.

The Manhattan Bridge is the most visibly striking element of the site, running parallel to it only 20 feet away. For this reason, we designed an exposed steel truss system for the skeleton to intensify the dialogue between the structures.

The design embodies a strong sense of dynamics. The structural axis is separated from the building exterior finish, providing a sense of movement, which is enhanced by the flying roof, sharp angles, and horizontal texture on the surface.

In addition to its visual impact, the Scarano & Associates Architect's office addition serves as an instructional laboratory for structure and design.
It illustrates over one hundred steel joint conditions, multiple curtain-wall applications of varying complexity, a variety of materials, and methods of intervention with historic structures.

The entire staff is involved in the construction process from procurements to crane placement and site safety.
All materials and systems are presented to the staff prior to installation and then applied in the field. It is the ultimate; hands-on' learn-design-build experience.

To view renderings please go to their website.

[Derek2k3]

Also has a kickass light show at night. There's a thread on the building here also.
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5170

Project #4

110 York Street
6 stories 84 feet (2 story addition)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Commercial Office
5,000 Sq. Ft. Addition
Completed 2003-October 2004


http://swiss-architects.com/db/imgportr/s/scaranoarchitects_x2.2.jpg

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3601/is_10_51/ai_n6261125

Architects office expansion reaches for the sky
Real Estate Weekly, Oct 20, 2004

Save a personal copy of this article and quickly find it again with Furl.net. Get started now. (It's free.)
Scarano & Associates, the architecture firm responsible for the design of thousands of apartment buildings and offices throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan is now taking care of its own design needs with a two-story glass and steel "sheltering roof" office addition, plus a 1,700-square-foot open air roof deck, on top of its existing fifth floor offices at 110 York Street in Vinegar Hill, Brooklyn.

"With a staff that has grown from 25 to 75 architects and design professionals within two years, we desperately needed to expand our offices," says Robert Scarano, founder and principal of the firm. "Moving for the fifth time in a decade seemed inevitable at first, but we managed to rind a much better solution that would showcase our most innovative work and, at the same time, give us the space we needed."

Designed by Mr. Scarano with David Balustein, and built by Mile Square Construction with Anthony Gennaro, Coronis Structural Systems and AA Omvraki Mechanical Engineers, the composition of the distinctly angled extension is glass and steel with natural wood panels and corrugated aluminum facade. Encompassing 5,000 square feet on two separate floors, Scarano & Associates' new office will have its own dedicated elevator to travel from the current fifth office to the rooftop extension. The interiors will inc

"There is a dramatic contrast between the ultra modern rooftop and the red brick masonry of the base building, which was built as a warehouse over 100 years ago," adds Mr. Scarano.

"The near transparency of the extension gives it a fluidity that enhances the architectural context. From the street, you can see the bridge through the rooftop extension, as if it were part of the structure. It's an architectural statement that is already being referred to as Brooklyn's Newest Landmark."

In addition to the aesthetic value of the structure, Scarano & Associates used many sustainable design features and such innovative architectural techniques as elevated shading roof panels, low-E multiple glazing reflective membranes and LED lighting.

"Our current office was recently described as a 'rabbit's warren' in a magazine article, which was funny to see in print, but also reinforced how tight we are as a group.

"With another 15 architects scheduled to come on board before the end of the year, the completion of this project couldn't come too soon. These are truly exciting times for our firm."

The architects plan to celebrate the completion of their new offices, which took approximately 15 months to design and build, with an industry gala at the end of October for colleagues and clients.

COPYRIGHT 2004 Hagedorn Publication
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group

[Archit_K]

What does DUMBO stand for?

[Derek2k3]

Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass


From the Architect's Newspaper

http://www.archpaper.com/eavesdrop/eavesdrop_021605.html

We’ve lost track of Jean Nouvel’s on-again, off-again meatpacking district project for developer Stephen Touhey. But it sounds like the French architect’s failed 1999 design for a nine-story hotel in Dumbo may be getting its second act as apartments. As of press time, both Nouvel’s office and developer Two Trees Management were keeping mum. However, we’re told that the repurposed structure will largely keep to the original plan, which calls for it to be dramatically cantilevered over the East River.



Here's the unbuilt hotel proposal.

Project # 5

River Hotel
Main Street Pier, Brooklyn Waterfront
9 stories 100 feet
Ateliers Jean Nouvel
Dev-Two Trees Management Co.
Commercial Hotel
250 Rooms 350,000 Sq.Ft.
Unbuilt



http://www.jeannouvel.fr

The Mirror of Manhattan

In fairy tales the wicked witch keeps the princess from seeing herself in a mirror to prevent her from discovering her beauty. Admiring one's own image, being certain of one's splendor, is such a pleasure that it has been elevated to the rank of a sin. Here is an irresistible occasion to hold up Narcissus's mirror to Manhattan and say: look at yourself; delight in yourself! The Fulton River Café was already a shard of the mirror. The river hotel will amplify the effect tenfold!

Panoramic views will stretch to the maximum, with sheets of glass so wide and so clear that people will wonder if they even exist. Images will stretch and duplicate in these planes of reflecting glass, creating a play between the real and the virtual.

The rooms are conceived as spacious balconies overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge and the downtown skyline, or, on the other side, the Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges. The power of these views derives from the bridges in the foreground, which contrast against a precious accumulation of background silhouettes: the Statue of Liberty, the skyline from South Street Seaport to the Empire State Building. Other rooms exploit vertiginous views upward toward the Manhattan Bridge, exploiting its fantastic dimensions. The River Hotel is in essence a bridge between two bridges: a place for looking at the city's bridges as if from the deck of a ship. It obeys the strict logic of New York's piers and respects the orthogonal urban grid running down to the water. It stretches its facade to the utmost, cantilevering over the river as if to reach the other side – as if it feels it belongs more to Manhattan than to Brooklyn.

The west deck of the hotel's lobby features a bay window over a hundred meters long for a view to the opposite shore. The health club extends under Manhattan Bridge, extending its floors behind a wall of glass twenty meters high at the water's edge. Even the movie theater takes advantage of the scenery: during intermission the screen lifts to reveal the Manhattan skyline and the bridges. And all along the piers, shops will accompany the riverside promenade.

In this way you will discover at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge a little piece of Brooklyn that, by dint of looking at Manhattan, has become Manhattan.

Jean Nouvel


- Status: Unbuilt
- Location: Main Street Pier, Brooklyn, New York
- Dates: May 1999
- Gross Floor Area: 35 000 m2, 350 000sq.ft
- Type of Commission: Private
- Program: 250 room hotel 150 000 sq ft, retail 75 000 sq ft, cinema 90 000 sq ft
- Construction Cost: 88 000 000 €, 80 000 000 $
- Client: Two Trees Management Co., David Walentas

Architectural Team
- Project Manager: Brigitte Metra
- Assitant Architects: David Fagart, Nicolas Baehr, Jane Landrey, Kirsi Marjamaki, Eric Nespoulos, Aldrick Beckmann, Joon Paik
- Local Architect: Beyer Blinder Belle, John H.Beyer

Consultant Team
- Engineers: Ove Arup and Partners
- Cinema Consultant: JSS Advisors, LLC
- Models: Jean-Louis Courtois, Etienne Follenfant
- Site Pictures: Philippe Ruault




http://travel2.nytimes.com/mem/travel/article-page.html?res=9B05E3DC1139F930A25755C0A96F958260&n=Top%2fFeatures%2fTravel%2fDestinations%2fUnited% 20States%2fNew%20York%2fNew%20York%20City
ART / ARHITECTURE; A Bridge Between a City and Its Self-Image

By HERBERT MUSCHAMP

Published: June 13, 1999

JEAN NOUVEL'S new design for a hotel and cineplex on the Brooklyn waterfront strikes me as one of the most imaginatively conceived pieces of architecture New York has seen in a long time. I've been groping for ideas to explain why. What makes a building contemporary? An impossible question to answer, but perhaps not a fruitless one to ask.

These days, architecture is not governed by a fixed set of guidelines, as it was, for instance, during the years of the modern movement. Buildings by Frank Gehry, Rem Koolhaas, Peter Eisenman, Steven Holl, Tod Williams and Billie Tsien, Daniel Libeskind, Philippe Starck, Rafael Vinoly, Zaha Hadid, Eric Moss and Thom Mayne are each highly distinctive in appearance and atmosphere, yet in common they can quicken your awareness of the present and its untapped possibilities. Where does that power come from?


Four thoughts. Walter Pater said that critics should ask: ''In whom did the stir, the genius, the sentiment of the period find itself?'' That's a start. Iris Murdoch, in ''Metaphysics as a Guide to Morals,'' offered a more rigorous definition. ''Serious art,'' she wrote, ''is a continuous working of meaning in the light of the discovery of some truth.''

John Summerson, writing in 1947, also emphasized the idea that contemporary art depends on a process of continuous working and on the value of discovery: ''The most a critic can do is to sort out those aging ideas that get encrusted around past creative achievements and clog the proper working of the imagination in changing times.'' And if you can accept that architecture is a public art, indeed the most conspicuously public art of all, then I think that a statement by Arthur Danto also helps illuminate the meaning and and value of Mr. Nouvel's new design: ''Public art is the public transfigured. It is us, in the medium of artistic transformation.''

Actually, I can't improve on Mr. Danto's idea as a depiction of Mr. Nouvel's design. It's a bridgelike building for a city poised between being and becoming. It shows a city in transition from manufacturing to information as an economic base. It is playful, disciplined, sociable and pushy. It refracts into crystalline form New York's exquisite and infuriating narcissism, a town enthralled by its cinematic panoramas and animated by the yearning of its citizens to star in them. And the project has aroused local opposition that is a form of narcissism in itself. The opponents seem to be fighting their own reflection in a mirror.

The River Hotel is part of a plan to redevelop a 72-acre, former industrial area on the East River called Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). The plan, which is seriously flawed, includes masses of retail shops, a redesign of the small, disheveled Fulton Landing Park, a small marina and parking garages. It also proposes housing a museum in the upper floors of Empire Stores, a handsome set of landmark brick warehouses that border the eastern edge of the park.

The Brooklyn Bridge Park Coalition, which opposes the plan, is right to demand that it be reconceived. The hotel itself is another matter. It deserves support.

Designed to resemble a pier, the hotel complex is in two main sections. A slim, four-story bar building is cantilevered from atop a square, five-story box. The bar projects 134 feet out over the East River and rises to a height of 100 feet, stopping just short of the Manhattan Bridge roadway. A glass bridge connects the hotel to a health club and spa across the street.

Mr. Nouvel has chosen a spare, industrial vocabulary. The facades are a simple grid pattern of gray metal fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows of white glass, so called because of its high degree of transparency. Because the hotel roof and its underside would be visible to bridge and water traffic, Mr. Nouvel has treated these surfaces as if they, too, were facades.

On the roof, instead of mechanical equipment, there are rectangular skylights and landscaped patios for the top floor. Three levels of public rooms, enclosed by seamless glass walls, are suspended beneath the building in a reverse ziggurat formation. On the lower of these floors a dance floor-size square of glass allows views of the river beneath.

The private rooms are minimally furnished and stylish. The east wall of each room is lined with mirror, doubling the skyline views. (Pray for soft lighting.) For the roof of the building, Mr. Nouvel has designed a tilted louver of reflective glass mirror that would cast reflections through skylights into the top floor rooms.

No museum has yet been named to occupy the old brick warehouses, and perhaps the proposal to put one there is redundant. The fact is that Mr. Nouvel has designed his cineplex as if it were a museum of contemporary art. And why shouldn't it be, if films are our leading popular art form?

The 16-screen cineplex is housed in a low, rectangular structure from which the projecting pier form is cantilevered. Mr. Nouvel has a thing about technological gimmicks (like the photosensitive irises installed in the facade of the Arab World Institute in Paris; alas, they occasionally break down). For the cineplex, he has installed windows behind the screens. These would be raised and lowered between performances, allowing stunning views of that other great collective art form: the Manhattan skyline. He has also proposed mounting screens on the exterior of the building, which could be used for artists' projects.

Dumbo's developer, David Walentas, the client, calls the design Main Street Pier. The architect himself calls it a bridge between two bridges. To my eye, the imagery looks nautical, as if the defunct Brooklyn Navy Yard nearby had gone into the business of floating hotels. There are open and enclosed promenades, reminiscent of those on the great trans-Atlantic liners. In the public corridors, surfboard-shape light wells are enclosed by shiplike railings.

In fact, the project should be seen as a step toward the time when New York is once again a great water city, with water taxis, ferries, piers, parks and other public amenities as well as new industrial uses enlarging the maritime dimension of New York.

Murdoch's idea helps illuminate this design. Mr. Nouvel has rethought the character of the city's waterfront at a time of change. If you look down on that site now (and it happens that I see part of Fulton Landing Park from my kitchen window), it is hard to believe that this is the ideal location for a luxury hotel. But you don't have to think ahead too far to glimpse a very different picture, of a time when water traffic will help to reshape the city's urban contours, just as the Brooklyn Bridge did years ago.

Will this project be built? Snowball's chance in hell, they say. But the ideas this particular snowball represents are not going to melt away. Mr. Nouvel has considered both the city's psychological and physical context. With its mirrors, its views, its white glass reflections, the building is a portrait of New York's narcissism at architectural scale. It brings to mind the famous Saul Steinberg drawing of New York's self-absorbed view of the world. Like that drawing, it counters self-absorption with self-awareness. It is a reflection on the city's narcissism, not a mindless indulgence in it. ''The stir, the genius, the sentiment of the period'' don't come more persuasively than this.

In this, it differs from the vanity that has trickled into architectural preservation circles in recent years. That threatens to turn an otherwise estimable movement into one of those aging ideas that get encrusted around past creative achievement and clog the proper workings of the imagination in changing times. The preservation movement has been a dominant influence on New York architecture for two decades, and its achievements are overwhelmingly constructive. But it has also come to include a sanctimonious Sacred Cow mentality. Perhaps the time has come to measure its environmental impact on the quality of New York's architecture.

Who doesn't love the kind of vanitythat we experience when we check out our reflections in fancy shop windows and see images of ourselves and the city overlaid atop pouty mannequins?This is one of the great urban pleasures. Mr. Nouvel's building will offer many similar moments throughout.

There's another kind of narcissistic outlook that is not so benign. According to this view, the public realm exists only to reflect popular prejudices, not to challenge or expose them. This strain has played a major role in New York's resistance to change. It has led to a confusion between architecture and architectural history, and in recent years this confusion has covered the city's architectural aspirations like a blanket of dust.

Mr. Nouvel's design and the opposition raised against it are both immensely narcissistic. The difference is that Mr. Nouvel knows what he is about. He has reworked meaning in light of the discovery of an important truth about the city today. That's what makes him a serious artist and his design an important work of art.


Renderings by Arte-Factory. More images there:
http://www.arte-factory.com/

[BrooklynRider]

Gosh, I hated that hotel. BAD, bad, bad design.

[Kolbster]

It's an um, interesting hotel....

[AJphx]

well I like it. Nouvel has done a great job. The airy and open corridors, the glass curtain wall windows, the usual wonderful use of light, and the ship-like deck on the outside are all beautiful.

[Kolbster]

You do have a point, i do like the inside, but the outside i'm not that big a fun of

[Stern]

Gosh, I hated that hotel. BAD, bad, bad design.

Initially I was glad Giuliani killed this project, but since then its grown on me. Im sure it would come to be a fixture of DUMBO bringing to the neighborhood more artists and much more than yuppies.

[Derek2k3]

Project # 6

NYC 2012 Voleyball & Handball Arena
85 Jay Street
Rafael Vinoly Architects
Dev-NYC 2012
Sports and Recreation
13,563 sq feet (can't be right)
Unbuilt

http://www.rvapc.com/Authoring/.%5CImages%5CProjects%5C249%5C249_tmp563.jpg

http://www.rvapc.com/ht/HTProject.aspx?Base=Projects&projID=249
More renderings at the web site.

New York Olympic Sports Arena
Brooklyn, New York, 2000
Sports and Recreation
Unbuilt
13,563 sq feet

New York is the United States' candidate city currently vying to host the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. In preparing its proposal, the New York City Olympic committee, known as NYC 2012, selected RVA to design a new, multi-purpose volleyball and handball arena on a site in Brooklyn, next to the Manhattan Bridge and just three blocks from the East River.

The site’s only adverse characteristic is a gentle north-south slope complicating the design of the building’s main entrance – located on its western boundary to take advantage of existing mass transit connections, local traffic patterns, and a planned commuter ferry route (contingent on New York’s selection as Olympic host city). RVA’s proposal provides a simple solution: an elevated plinth with a public plaza signals the entrance to the arena while serving as the facility’s main civic space. The interior of the building features a sliding seating system easily configured to suit either volleyball or handball matches. The arena is covered by a translucent fabric tensile roof, which extends to the west to cover part of the entrance plaza. The roof glows at night, revealing the activities within.

On either side of the main volume of the building, two narrow masses – running along the northern and southern boundaries of the site and conforming in scale to the surrounding neighborhood – contain VIP rooms, press boxes, warm-up areas, a café, food stands, the athletes entrance, and the vertical circulation cores of the complex.

After the conclusion of the Games, the facility would be turned over to the community. The easily reconfigurable seating would allow it to accommodate a wide variety of functions, including concerts and trade shows as well as ice hockey, basketball, tennis, indoor soccer, and boxing events.


The Jehova Witness project will go up on this site, which I'll post later.

[Archit_K]

Porject #4

[Archit_K]

Poject #7

This could be one of Gruzen Samtons new projcet.
http://www.gruzensamton.com/

[Derek2k3]

ok
Project #7

J Condo
100 Jay Street
31/33 stories 337 feet
Gruzen Samton Architects
Dev-Hudson Companies Incorporated
Residential Condominiums
260/267 units 407,129 Sq. Ft.
Proposed 2005-2006

http://www.hudsoninc.com/apt4sale/jcondo/images/jcondo.jpg

From Hudson Companies Incorporated

http://www.hudsoninc.com/apt4sale/jcondo/index.htm

Rising 33 stories with terrific panoramic views, J Condo will be a luxury residential condominium with ground floor retail space and a parking garage. As the tallest building in Dumbo, J Condo will add an easily recognizable icon to the Brooklyn skyline with its dramatic curved, sail-like façade of floor to ceiling windows viewable from the Manhattan Bridge, East River and Manhattan.

J Condo will offer 267 studio to three-bedroom apartments with luxury finishes, services and views not previously available in a new condominium building in Dumbo or downtown Brooklyn.

Residential Amenities will include:

* a 24-hour attended lobby, 2,000 square foot fitness center,
* bike room
* children’s play room, media room, resident storage
* sun terrace
* on-premises garage.

Finishes will include:

* washer and dryer hookups in every apartment
* stone master bath with soaking tub and separate shower
* granite kitchen countertops and designer wood cabinets
* generous closets including walk-in and linen closets,
* stainless steel appliances, and
* garbage disposals.

Many units will have private terraces or balconies and all will have triple glazed casement windows and state-of-the-art water cooled heat pump units providing maximum flexibility for heating and cooling .

Construction of J Condo is anticipated to begin in late Fall 2004. Condominium units will offered for sale subject to a plan to be reviewed and accepted for filing by the New York State Attorney General’s office. Units are not available for sale at this time.

A thread on the project is here. This was also the site of the Light Bridges proposal.
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3195

http://www.metropolismag.com/images/images_0501/shp/d.jpg
Light Bridges, SHOP Architects

[Kolbster]

I really did like that light bridge's proposal...it's much more unique, the other building is more...common

[Kolbster]

So tell me more about this hand ball and Voleball stadium proposed in Dumbo

[Archit_K]

Project #7

That is it. I can't wait for this to be completed. What a pretty rendering.

[Derek2k3]

Project #8

Bridgefront
67/65-71 Front Street/42-44 Main Street
10 stories 120 feet
Elena Kalman Architect
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
21 units 37,160 Sq. Ft.
Completed Early 2003

http://www.kalmandesign.com/exteriorbridge.jpg
Elena Kalman Architect
http://www.kalmandesign.com


http://www.corcoran.com/property/nd/index.asp?where=manh&p=1

Overview
Bridgefront, a luxury loft condominium, is located in the heart of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). This historic waterfront community has spectacular views of lower Manhattan, the East River and both the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. It is a rapidly changing and vibrant neighborhood and boasts new and hip restaurants, shopping and living conveniences. Bridgefront is accessible by subway on the A and C train stopping at High Street, the F train to York Street or the 2 and 3 trains at Clark Street. There is also the New York Water Taxi that stops at Fulton Landing and travels across the East River into Manhattan. DUMBO is within walking distance to Brooklyn Heights and Downtown Brooklyn.

Amenities
This new state of the art construction luxury condominium building boasts 24-hour full service concierge, a fully equipped health club with a sauna and party room, private terraces and balconies, common roof terrace and an art gallery lobby showcasing DUMBO artists. All the units have 11’ ceiling heights, solid mahogany window sills, double glazed oversized out swinging windows, generous closets and high speed internet. The bathrooms are equipped with deep multi-jet Jacuzzi tub, custom sink and vanity and marble flooring. Kitchens include Sub Zero refrigerators, Wolf Range stainless steel ovens, Asko dishwashers, custom cherry wood cabinets and Pietra Serna countertops.



REAL ESTATE DESK
POSTINGS: Bridgefront in Brooklyn; Condos Selling In Dumbo

Published: September 21, 2003, Sunday

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9804E0DC123AF932A1575AC0A9659C8B 63

Construction is still under way on Bridgefront, a 10-story condominium at 42 Main Street in the Dumbo area of Brooklyn, but 18 of its 21 loft-style apartments have been sold in the two months since sales began.

The residences, including three penthouses, are offered with six different interior layouts and have 1,010 to 1,700 square feet of space, as well as private terraces. Sales prices range from $600,000 to $1.15 million, according to Boymelgreen Developers of Brooklyn, the developer of the $10.5 million project.

Haysha Deitsch, the project manager, said he attributed the rapid pace of sales to the building's design and the neighborhood, whose name is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. ''Dumbo,'' he said, ''is Dumbo.''

Bridgefront is clad in glass and a stuccolike material and has a facade with a rounded corner at Main and Front Streets. The architect is Elena Kalman of Stamford, Conn.

In two weeks residents will begin moving into the building, which will have such amenities as a health club, meditation garden and roof deck. Completion is expected next month.

Bridgefront marks Boymelgreen's entry into Dumbo, but the company already has started a second residential project in the neighborhood and has plans for two more, as well as a commerical development. ''This is the first and a taste of what is to come,'' Mr. Deitsch said.

Published: 09 - 21 - 2003 , Late Edition - Final , Section 11 , Column 4 , Page 1

[Kolbster]

You know they have a star bucks in the bottom of that building

[Stern]

Although generally not a fan of post-modernism I do lavish in some of its details and classical throw-backs, this is a good building that fits right into its context.

[Derek2k3]

Project #9

The Bridges/The Bridge Street Condominium
79 Bridge Street
6 stories 70 feet (2 story addition)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Kay Bridge Properties/Howard Klaus Partnership
Residential Condominiums
37 units 51,141 Sq. Ft.
Completed 2003

The Bridges

http://www.thedevelopersgroup.com/buildings/building.aspx?buildingid=1001&

79 Bridge St Brooklyn, NY 11201
The Bridges Condominiums are the first luxury loft condo project to come to Vinegar Hill Brooklyn, a neighboring community to stylish Dumbo. This charming neighborhood features delightful restaurants, cobblestone streets and quaint brownstones. The Bridges has some of the most original architecture in all of Brooklyn, with its majestic open-air courtyards and breathtaking views of lower to mid-town Manhattan from its large roof-deck. Come see this beautiful loft condo building today.

Amenities
Open-air interior courtyard
Individual balconies
Wrought-iron railings
Hardwood floors
Stainless steel appliances
Marble counter tops
Marble baths
Maple kitchen cabinets
Exposed brick
Insulated windows
Roof Deck


http://www.scaranoarchitects.com/multifamily1.html

This converted factory building houses 37 loft-style-apartments, commercial gallery spaces, and enclosed parking on six floors. These features are contained within 40.000 square feet, making this a diverse and truly mixed-use development.

By stretching the conceptual boundaries of the up and coming DUMBO Community three blocks east, this two story addition of a creation of this vacant factory building provided a platform for buyers to obtain loft-style living at a modest prices. Dubbed the “poor man’s lofts”, this building sold out all units in four weeks.

The juxtaposition of new and old marks a crossroads in development in the area. The addition to the building marries old and new; new interior and exterior bearing walls, supported by the existing brick walls made the project economically feasible.

This alteration constructed in strict conformance with the New York City Quality Housing Program. Afforded the residents many amenities not found in other buildings.

A distinctive development, which provides both environmental sensitivity through adaptive reuse and energy conservation through creative insulation and ventilation systems, makes this project a success to everyone associated with it.

[Kolbster]

How many "projects are there?

[BrooklynRider]

I don't see how anyone can view #7 as anything but a wall. I'm guessing we all enjoy the height, as it will add to the skyline. However, it is just too much mass. I'd prefer two taller, slender towers rising from that base. I think this is just incredibly bad planning and a form of structure that imposes itself on a neighborhood, rather than integrating itself. Horrible.

[Derek2k3]

There's a thread on the neighborhood here

Project #1
53 Bridge Street
Scarano & Associates Architects
Dev-Kay Bridge Properties /53 Bridge, LLC
12 stories 162 feet 6 story addition
130,740 Sq. Ft.
Residential Condominiums
Under Construction 2004-2006

http://mehandeseng.com/images/53_bridge.jpg

http://mehandeseng.com/projects.htm

53 Bridge Street
Brooklyn , New York
Architect: Scarano and Associates Architects
Square Foot: 150,000
Owner: Kay Bridge Properties

Some photos of the construction. The first pic has the site of 100 Jay (Project #7) in the foreground.

[Derek2k3]

How many "projects are there?
Not quite sure yet.

Project #10

133 Water Street
12 stories 120 feet
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Jack Guttman Partners
Residential Condominium
52 units 85,477 Sq. Ft.
5.000 Sq. Ft. of Retail & Community Space
Under Consruction 2003-2006


Scarano & Associate Architects

http://www.scaranoarchitects.com

The Gair family developed many of the adjacent properties and these buildings lend their aesthetic qualities to the new structure. And while some of the new developments ignore this richly diverse community by placing Manhattan-style buildings next to these neighboring icons, this new building blends old with new, allowing both to be recognized and appreciated for what they are.

Exterior surfaces reveal the varied nature of the interior layouts by using glass window wall systems on the upper level units, most of which have double height ceilings. Turning the mass on a 45 degree angle to the street grid allowed for unique and varied vistas for many units. Triple glazing and acoustically super-insulated exterior walls mask the din of noise emanating from the adjacent Manhattan bridge roadway and transit lines.

With commercial spaces at the 1st floor and parking in the cellar, the residential portion on the floors above responds to the New York City Quality Housing Program, mandated by the local residential district.

Large units of 1000 square feet for a two bedroom apartment represent a trend that the buyers now demand. Modern amenities include deluxe five piece fixtures in the master bathroom, his and her walk in closets and state of the art kitchen appliances with European cabinetry.


Globe St.

http://www.globest.com/news/120_120/newyork/126684-1.html

Residential Tower To Rise in Dumbo
By Barbara Jarvie
Last updated: Tuesday, September 21, 2004 04:07pm

BROOKLYN, NY-To add more residences to the “hot” Dumbo section of this borough, Scarano & Associates Architects completed the design of 133 Water St., a 12-story mixed-use condominium tower. It will be the first new building to be constructed in 100 years at the base of the Manhattan Bridge.

Over the past few years, Dumbo has become one of New York City's most sought after residential neighborhoods. This initiative started when the Clock Tower Building was converted into luxury apartments in 1998.
Plans for 133 Water St. include underground parking, first-floor commercial spaces and 52 residential units consisting primarily of one- and two-bedroom apartments, with some studios and three-bedroom units. Developed as a full-service luxury building, the condominium will feature such amenities as a fitness room, roof deck with recreational space and washer-dryer hook-ups. Units above the second floor will have balconies or terraces. The project also calls for triple-glazed glass curtain walls, as well as high-grade acoustically insulated exterior walls to mask street noises. Development costs were not available.
Designed by Scarano’s Charles Diehl, the street frontage of the building will be composed of concrete. The glass portion of the site, primarily comprising the top eight floors, turns the mass of the structure at an angle to match the bridge.
“We paid close attention to the architectural styles of the area,” points out Robert Scarano, the firm’s founder and principal. “We didn’t believe Manhattan-style modernism would be appropriate here, but rather a design that could celebrate the historic qualities of the neighborhood, while taking advantage of potentially remarkable vistas.”
Construction developed by the Guttman family is just under way with completion scheduled for early 2006. The interiors are being designed by Andres Escobar and the marketing will be through the Developers Group.
Two blocks away from the Water Street project in Vinegar Hill, Scarano & Associates recently completed the design of a second residential project. The architects proposed a four-story glass and steel addition, two separate entry lobbies, center courtyard and 83-space below ground parking lot. The Scarano architects responsible for the design are Richard T. Honovic and Robyn Squires.
Founded in 1985 by Robert Scarano Jr., the firm is responsible for an average of 200 projects annually. Although the firm focuses much of its work in Brooklyn and Manhattan, the firm designed a convention center in Medellin, Columbia.
The company is also converting two interconnecting, 1920's commercial buildings at 57 Front Street to 33 one- and two-bedroom rental apartments.

[Derek2k3]

Project #11

10 Jay Street
Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects
16 stories (7 story addition)
Proposed

http://63.240.68.115/FirmFiles/8/images/10-Jay-Street-3D-full.jpg

10 Jay Street
Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects
http://www.eekarchitects.com/indprjdoc_eek.cfm?Action=ProjectDoc&webprojcatid=219&projectid=62888&categoryname=Historic%20Preservation%20%26%20Adapt ive%20Reuse

Location: Brooklyn, New York
This building's new design is proposed to become an integral part of redeveloping a waterfront loft district as well as Brooklyn’s new waterfront park. At the moment, the building detracts from its current urban setting and will, if it remains, be an obstacle (visual and functional) to the wonderful plans underway for the Brooklyn waterfront park. Here is one of those rare opportunities where private redevelopment can be directed to enhance ongoing public policy and current public construction projects, and to do so within a very short timetable.

A thread on the building is here:
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4878

NYatKnight: "It looks like a water cooler."
lol

Another design, by Karl Fischer

http://www.kfarchitect.com/portfolio/residential/multifamily/multi-31.jpg

[Kolbster]

The proposed Karl Fisher one looks nice....which one is going to be built?

[Derek2k3]

Project #2

Beacon Tower
85 Adams Street
23 stories 314 feet
Cetra/Ruddy Incorporated
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
77 units 115,424 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-Summer 2006


http://www.corcoran.com/property/nd/photo/beacontower1.jpg
Corcoran Group

http://www.corcoran.com/property/nd/index.asp?CGM=Y

85 Adams Street
Brooklyn,NY11201

Overview
COMING SOON
Find peace, sanctuary and true urban sophistication at 85 Adams Street in Dumbo. Discover Beacon Tower- the tallest residential building in DUMBO- where the emphasis is on you, your comfort, your desire for community and calm.

1, 2 and 3 bedroom units available ranging from 779 to 1784 square feet. The apartments will be loaded with high quality fixtures and equipment which create a spa-like atmosphere. Windows will be dual glazed with heavy laminated glass and a special sound-absorbing acoustic liner for superior noise attenuation. Other amenities will include rift oak cabinets, stone composite countertops, Bosch stainless steel appliances, Kohler sinks and faucets, built-in washer/dryers, Zuma bathtubs (20” depth) and many many more!!! A beautiful courtyard and garden creates a refreshing transition from street life to home life.

This twenty-three story tower is located in New York’s hippest and most charming residential neighborhood. Minutes from Manhattan. Close to NY Water Taxi and many subways!

Amenities

COMING SOON
• Doorman
• DSL/Cable/Satellite ready
• Dual glazed windows with heavy laminated glass and a special sound absorbing acoustic liner for superior noise attenuation
• 10’6” ceilings
• Rift oak cabinets
• Stone composite countertops
• Bosch electric oven/gas cooktop and dishwasher all in stainless steel
• Jenn-Air stainless steel refrigerator
• Kohler sinks and faucets
• Glass mosaic tile walls in the bathroom
• Built-in washer/dryers
• Zuma bathtubs (20” depth)
• Courtyard and garden w/ teahouse
• Many Many More!!!!

[Derek2k3]

Project #12

RiverFront
57 Front Street
7 stories 84 feet(Conversion)
Elena Kalman Architect
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominiums
33 units 51,781 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

http://www.57front.com/index_r2_c3.gif
http://www.57front.com/


57 Front Street
Brooklyn,NY11201

http://www.corcoran.com/property/nd/index.asp?CGM=Y

Overview
Newly refurbished loft-style development in prime DUMBO! Amenities include stainless steel Bosch & sub-zero appliances, honed soapstone countertops, Kohler bathroom fixtures, whirlpool bath tubs and maple flooring. Doorman building with a fitness center and on-site laundry. Close to A, C and F trains and the New York Water taxi, minutes from Manhattan!

• Stainless steel Bosch & sub-zero appliances
• Honed soapstone countertops
• Kohler bathroom fixtures
• Whirlpool bath tubs
• Maple flooring.

[Archit_K]

Wow, alot going on in DUMBO.

[Derek2k3]

Yup, some projects (like this one) are actually located in a small adjacent neighborhood called Vinegar HIll.

Project #13

Commodore’s Court
85 Hudson Avenue
5 stories 50 feet
K & K Engineering
Dev-The Constellation Group
Residential Condominiums
9 units 12,957 Sq. Ft.
Completed Late 2004

http://www.corcoran.com/property/nd/photo/85hudson.jpg

85 Hudson Avenue
Brooklyn,NY11201

Overview
Located in historic and charming Vinegar Hill is a newly constructed condominium with special emphases to detail. You enter this building through a soaring glass enclosed atrium, where you take the elevator to nine distinctive apartments. The apartments consist of duplexes, simplexes and a penthouse. All of the apartments offer low monthly carrying costs, individually controlled central air and heat, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, designer limestone tiles and finishes in the bathrooms, hardwood floors, storage units, and private outdoor space. The penthouse apartment offers the elevator opening into your unit, a gas fireplace, Jacuzzi tub and four separate out door areas; all with spectacular skyline, bridge and water views. The building also has a common roof deck. The F subway line is within a short walking distance, water taxi directly to Wall Street and minutes to the boutiques and restaurants of DUMBO

The Commodore’s Court Condominium brings a new level of style to the Brooklyn marketplace. This elevator building features:
# Central Air and Heat
# Private Outdoor Space For Every Apartment
# Glass Enclosed Atrium Lobby
# Double Paned Wood Framed Windows
# Number 1 Hard wood Oak Floors
# Stainless Steel Appliances
# Beautiful Limestone Tile Bathrooms Featuring Vessel Style Sinks
# Custom Kitchens With Granite
# Counter Tops Pre-Wired For Internet
# -wired For Cable TV
# Common Roof Deck
# Private Storage Rooms
# Intercom

[Archit_K]

Poject #13

For a minute I was disappointed thinking Commodore’s Court was 2-Dimensional verses 3-Dimensional. Nice angle shot you took of the building Ondel.

[Kolbster]

wow, bravo Dumbo, im very excited to see the vast change in the sky line!

[Derek2k3]

Projects #14-17

Watchtower Residence Hall I
85 Jay Street
20 stories 222 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall II
85 Jay Street
18 stories 195 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall III
85 Jay Street
9 stories
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall IV
85 Jay Street
9 stories
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

http://www.85jaystreet.org/planned/images/4corners.jpg
http://www.85jaystreet.org/planned/

What Will Be Built?
The current plans for the space include a dormitory of 20 stories holding 1000 apartments and a 1100 car underground parking garage. The building will be capped by 14, 16, 18 and 20 story towers and extend from lot line to lot line. All together the building will house more then 1,500 potential tenants, a number that equals half of the estimated current residents of the DUMBO area. Plans for the structure include
NO RETAIL SPACE at ground level.


Jehovah's Witnesses
get DUMBO plan OK

http://www.nydailynews.com/boroughs/story/258281p-221230c.html

BY HUGH SON
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

The controversial Jehovah's Witnesses residential complex in DUMBO all but got the green light yesterday when a key City Council committee voted in favor of a scaled-back version of the project.

Major changes to the 85 Jay St. complex include two of the four planned apartment towers being reduced by a total of 130 feet in height.

"We achieved what we agree is an acceptable compromise," said Councilman Tony Avella (D-Queens), chairman of the Council's Zoning and Franchises Committee.

Avella had "no doubt" the project would be approved at a final Council vote on Dec. 13.

Jehovah's Witnesses spokesman Richard Devine said the project would brighten a "dark and inhospitable" section of DUMBO. Construction is scheduled to start in 2006.

"This will bring a lot of life and activity to an area that really could use it," Devine said.

The four residential towers - the highest of which will be 20 stories - will house about 1,600 people in 888 studio and one-bedroom apartments. That is a significant addition to the estimated 2,000 who live in DUMBO now.

The 800,000-square-foot complex also will include a three-story auditorium, a dining hall and an 1,100-spot underground parking garage.

The two neighborhood groups that have opposed the plan because of its large scale - and who helped to reduce its size - reacted differently to the news.

The improvements are "nothing to sneeze at," said Nicholas Evans-Cato of the Vinegar Hill Association.

But Nancy Webster of the DUMBO Neighborhood Association expressed disappointment that the buildings weren't scaled back further.

"What the Witnesses are building is basically a development that works for them, not the rest of the neighborhood," she said.

Webster also lamented that the project will not include street-level retail shops along Jay St. because the religious group refuses to act as a commercial landlord.

She and other residents have no choice but to adjust to a new presence in DUMBO, Webster admitted.

"We'll try to be good neighbors," she said.

Originally published on December 3, 2004

[Derek2k3]

Project #18

40 Main Street
4 stories 67 feet(1 story addition)
Simino Architects
Mixed Use
Completed 2002?

The Japanese restaurant "Miso" is at the base. Artticle here:
http://www.go-brooklyn.com/html/issues/_vol27/27_16/miso.html

[Derek2k3]

Project #19

Fulton Ferry Landmark Condominiums
4 Water Street
6 stories 76 feet
Oaklander, Coogan & Vitto
Dev-4 Water LLC
Residential Condominiums
13 units 24,142 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction Summer 2004-2005

You can register to Brooklyn Eagle and read article here:
http://www.brooklyneagle.com/archive/brooklyn_space.php?id=2663

[Derek2k3]

Project #20

37 Bridge Street
10 stories 110 feet
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Howard Klause
Residential Condominiums
60 units 103,077 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2006

Additon to a circa-1916 building that housed the Kirkland Soap Factory and new construction on the adjacent lot I suppose.

[Kolbster]

Anyone know exactly when J-Condo and 85 Adams is going to be built? I was just wondering

[Gulcrapek]

85 Adams is u/c. Don't know about 100 Jay.

[Kolbster]

we are such losers. ITs like 2:02 in the mornisklng, and im here checking the forum...gyaaaad

[Archit_K]

Anyone know exactly when J-Condo and 85 Adams is going to be built? I was just wondering
Its really hard to say when "exactly" a project is going to be completed. Most projects get delayed but far as most ppl know it J-Condo is going to be compeleted sometime in 2006 and 85 Adams St. summer of 2006. You should get some sleep.

[Gulcrapek]

53 Bridge is completely visible from Manhattan now. It'll be interesting when the facade goes on.

[Derek2k3]

Cool, I'm not getting my hopes up on the facade though.

Project # 21

65 Washington
61-65 Washington Street
13 stories 120 feet
Stephen B Jacobs Group
Dev-Two Trees Management
Residential Rental
54 units 62,857 Sq. Ft.
Completed October 2001


http://www.sbjgroup.com

FOR DUMBO IN BROOKLYN, TWO NEW BUILDINGS

http://www.sbjgroup.com/news_nytimes_3_01.html

Two high-end residential buildings, one under construction, the other in the pipeline, are accelerating the changes. under way in Dumbo, the Brooklyn waterfront neighborhood whose name is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.

"Rome was not built in a day but it's all happening now," said David C. Walentas, a developer who owns large chunks of Dumbo and has been pursuing visions of a revitalized community there for more than 20 years. He is putting up a 54-unit, 12-story rental building at 65 Washington Street. "A year ago," he said, "there was no retail in the neighborhood. Now we have a Korean market, a chocolatier, antiques shops, art galleries."

Designed by Stephen B. Jacobs, an architect, and Andi Pepper, his partner and wife, the building will offer apartments with luxury touches, including open granite and stainless steel kitchens. Though rents have yet to be set, Mr. Walentas estimated they would range from about $1,100 for studios to $3,500 for three-bedrooms. Though he has done conversions of both condominiums and rentals in Dumbo, he decided to make his first newly constructed venture a rental, he said, because "we own virtually everything in the neighborood and we want to retain control."

One site he does not control is at the intersection of Jay, York and Front Streets adjacent to the Manhattan Bridge, where Jeffrey M. Brown Associates has combined forces with Cara Development in a proposal for a mixed-use building.

Their building, to be called Light Bridges at 100 Jay Street, will set 153 condominiums in two towers atop a base of commercial space. The towers, designed by SHoP / Sharples Holden Pasquarelli, will be connected by glass corridors that will offer seethrough views of the waterfront and the Manhattan skyline. The project would require a zoning change, from light industrial to residential, which the developers are in the process of seeking.

"Right now Dumbo has the ingredients for a warm, cozy and eclectic environment," Mr. Brown said. "We want to design a building to magnify that."
NADINE BROZAN

[Kolbster]

I thought this building was completed already

[Gulcrapek]

54 units 62,857 Sq. Ft.
Completed October 2001


It was ;)

[Archit_K]

Project #21

65 Washington turned out good.

[BrooklynRider]

I'm dreading the Watchtower Residential buildings. They put up cheap, crappy looking buildings and aesthetics are the absolute lowest priority.

[Kolbster]

I'm dreading the Watchtower Residential buildings. They put up cheap, crappy looking buildings and aesthetics are the absolute lowest priority.

I wouldnt go that far. The Jehova's buildings in thier rendering doesn't look too bad, and the ones that they have put up in the past are a mix; like the ones in brooklyn heights....some are nice and others are so so, but none that are super ugly

[Stern]

I heard that the Jehovah Witnesses are moving operations and evangelists out of Brooklyn and to an upstate compund and would be selling their Brooklyn properties. Im curious as to why they are building dorms under these circumstances.

[NewYorkYankee]

That sucks, its a loss for the city. :(

[Stern]

That sucks, its a loss for the city. :(

I think it’s a boon to the city. The properties will be sold and converted into residential and retail space that was previously non-existent. I don’t believe an organization should control any part of a city; it goes against the diversity that keeps a city in working order.

[BrooklynRider]

No, actually they are only moving the publishing facilities out of Brooklyn. The new residential towers are going to sit atop a huge visitors center. Brooklyn is the world-wide operational heart of that sect. They're not going anywhere.

They are only selling one building on Joralemon Street and I would guess it is because it is so far outside of the compound they have created. Plus, with the BBPDC releasing the plans for the park last week, you can see that that area is going to be transformed (but no without major community infighting).

[Kolbster]

Yes, actually New york, esp. brooklyn (in and around the heights) is the international head quarters/ epicenter of Jehovahs.

[Derek2k3]

Also has a kickass light show at night. There's a thread on the building here also.
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5170

Project #4

110 York Street
6 stories 84 feet (2 story addition)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Commercial Office
5,000 Sq. Ft. Addition
Completed 2003-October 2004


http://swiss-architects.com/db/imgportr/s/scaranoarchitects_x2.2.jpg


http://www.newyorkmetro.com/nymetro/news/people/columns/intelligencer/11277/index.html

Intelligencer
Dumbo’s Bright Elephant
A young architect builds an improbable answer to the Empire State Building.

By Tom Vanderbilt

http://newyorkmetro.com/nymetro/news/people/columns/intelligencer/dumbo050228_250.jpg
(Photo credit: Courtesy of Dedy Blaustein)

A curious landmark has risen in Brooklyn. With its quasi-trapezoidal profile, soaring white trusses, and close-enough-to-collect-tolls proximity to the Manhattan Bridge, the building has become a major architectural presence in the borough, leaving Dumbo residents and passing drivers to wonder what it is.

“I spent quite a few hours walking around trying to figure it out,” says Jonah Zuckerman, a furniture designer in Dumbo. “It seemed somehow significant, but I was surprised by how many people knew nothing about it.” He had his own pet theory: “I got it into my head that it was [avant-garde artist and architect] Vito Acconci’s studio. It somehow reminded me of his work.”

And then there are the lights. On any given night, the building’s trusses are swathed in purples and reds and greens. “When that started happening, there seemed to be a dialogue between it and the Empire State Building,” says architect Elaine Didyk, a Boerum Hill resident who surveyed the building’s progress on trips into Manhattan. “One weekend, this thing was undulating through the full spectrum of its color potential. It was really on. I thought, They’re making a statement; they’re locating Brooklyn.”

The “Jetsons” building, as it has been dubbed, is the work of Dedy Blaustein, a 32-year-old architect with Scarano & Associates, which occupies the space. Blaustein had just graduated from Pratt when he presented his ideas for the 5,200-square-foot rooftop addition to his boss, Robert Scarano. His inspiration was right outside the window: “We’re not the main thing here,” he says, gesturing toward the bridge. “That is the main thing here. It’s so dynamic. I had to do something crazy.”

And since the building wasn’t landmarked, “something crazy” didn’t raise eyebrows in the permit process: “As long as you’re in compliance with the approved height and floor area,” says Blaustein, “nobody says you can’t do a building that’s a different shape.”

Blaustein says that tourists stop by, film scouts call, truck drivers honk, and cabbies offer upturned thumbs. (So far, no rubbernecking accidents have been attributed to the design.) But not everyone is impressed. “To call it a train wreck would be almost accurate,” says one Dumbo architect. Blaustein responds: “I didn’t design it for people to like it, I designed it for people not to be able to ignore it.”

As for the lights, Blaustein employs a Color Kinetics LED system. “I’m the only one who knows how to operate it.” He has thousands of color combinations, and effects that put a Pink Floyd laser light show to shame. His only mandate is to be “funkier” than the Empire State Building, but sometimes he forgets to change the colors.

“That’s so Brooklyn,” says Didyk. “A guy at his desktop who’s like, ‘I forgot to change the lights today.’ Meanwhile, people are driving by and wondering, What does the green mean?”


Any opinions? I think it would be more prominent if it were taller. It's kind of in an obscure location or maybe I'd have to drive over the Manhattan Br. to appreciate it more.

[Derek2k3]

Project # 22

38 Water Street
38-62 Water Street
16 stories 178 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-Two Trees Management
Residential Condominiums
200 units
On Hold

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/24/nyregion/thecity/24wale.html

The Views Are Just Fine, for Now
By JAKE MOONEY

Published: October 24, 2004

In the Dumbo section of Brooklyn, some residents are still tasting their victory of two weeks ago, when the prominent developer David Walentas of Two Trees Management scrapped his plan to build a 16-story apartment tower at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Neighborhood leaders say their work isn't finished, though, because Mr. Walentas could still construct a tall industrial building there without having to secure city permission. He had been in the middle of asking the City Council to rezone 38 Water Street, currently the site of the one-story St. Ann's Warehouse art space, for residential use.

But two weeks ago, as reported in The Daily News and in local papers, he abruptly canceled the whole thing after mounting pressure from vocal opponents, who told the Council's Land Use Committee that the tower was inappropriate because it would block the neighborhood's views of the Brooklyn Bridge, and views from the bridge's pedestrian walkway. Without knowing what Mr. Walentas's next step might be - repeated phone calls to his office were not returned - residents are doing what they can to preserve their views.

"We're just trying a variety of angles so that we don't have to fight this battle again, so that the view from the bridge and the approach to the bridge are preserved," said Nancy Bowe, president of the Brooklyn Heights Association.

She said neighborhood groups were exploring the possibility of seeking a zoning change of their own to restrict the height of buildings at the site, a proposal that would have to first make its way through the city's rigorous land-use review process. In the meantime, area residents said their ideal use for the property would be similar to what Mr. Walentas proposed - just not as tall. "We would like to see residential, with some street-level retail there," said Nancy Webster, president of the Dumbo Neighborhood Association. Councilman David Yassky, who represents the area and who opposed the project in its final stages, agreed.

"I think an eight-story building that would not rise above the Brooklyn Bridge would be a terrific use of that site," he said. "It's certainly better to have an eight-story building than an empty lot, or a one-story warehouse."


Sounds like people were just trying to protect their own views again to me but since the design was retro garbage I could care less. Why must every development in Brooklyn be in context with what's already there?

[Kolbster]

The second rendering doesn't look to bad...atleast the bridge is still visible. I think it would be best to build a shopping center near there or the second rendering, or both of them combined

[Gulcrapek]

Good move on halting it. Anything by BBB should immediately arouse suspicion, and it turns out that suspicion of bland design is confirmed here.

[Kolbster]

although the design is bland, i think it would fit into the neighborhood; filled with converted and some still operating whare houses...but it would block the bridge. What im wondering is why not exand the empire stores that are being developed across the way to this site as well.

[Derek2k3]

Article on Vinegar Hill from the Village Voice

http://www.villagevoice.com/nyclife/0449,adkison,59179,15.html

Close-Up on Vinegar Hill
by Danial Adkison
December 10th, 2004 1:40 PM

A visitor to Vinegar Hill might wonder, while gazing down a postcard-perfect Belgian-block lane, where was the vinegar made? Surely, in one of these old buildings there must have been vats of that pungent pickling liquid, maybe even a vinegar pipeline, though it's hard to imagine now. But the neighborhood's evocative name has nothing to do with acetic acid.

In 1801, speculator John Jackson named his newly acquired chunk of Brooklyn waterfront Vinegar Hill after a 1798 battle of the Irish rebellion—and even that hill probably wasn't named after vinegar as we know it, but a type of berry. He hoped to draw sentimental Gaelic immigrants to his new neighborhood. It worked so well that the area also become known as Irish Town, and brothels, bars, and gambling salons sprung up to cater to its blue-collar denizens.

The neighborhood once claimed several large factories. ConEd built the behemoth Hudson Avenue Generating Station in 1951. The U.S. government decommissioned the Navy Yard in 1966, and artists and families arrived in the '70s and '80s, refurbishing the sagging century-old Greek-revival and Italianate buildings.

Today, the eight-square-block oxbow of row houses and lush dooryards is a throwback to mid-1800s Brooklyn charm—blocked by the towering, monolithic Farragut Houses; hemmed by the Navy Yard; and sheltered by the power plant, with its smokestacks and acres of transformers. DUMBO to the immediate south offers the most open access to Vinegar Hill's historic district.

And DUMBO's exploding real estate market is spreading uphill. The noise from saws, shovels, and hammers jars the quiet streets and alleyways of Vinegar Hill as cookie-cutter red-brick-and-steel buildings go up and warehouses are gutted for future lofts. The neighborhood association, as active as any in the city, is fighting to keep this nook precious, but Vinegar Hill, like its cousin Red Hook, has only retained its quiet urban-village atmosphere thanks to its obscurity. Just like the Hook, which Ikea and a hundred other developers are set to sink their own hooks into, Vinegar Hill is an endangered species.


A vestige of Vinegar Hill's industrial behemoths
photo: Holly Northrop/hnorthrop.com
Boundaries: The Navy Yard to the north, the East River to the west, Bridge Street to the south, and Sands Street to the east.

Transportation: The York Street stop on the F train is about a 10-minute walk from most parts of Vinegar Hill. The B61 bus serves Navy, York, and Gold streets. On-street parking is available.

Main Drags: Front Street connects the neighborhood with DUMBO and runs the breadth of Vinegar Hill. Hudson Avenue runs perpendicular to Front and skirts the Navy Yard. York and Bridge streets host minuscule commercial zones.

Prices to Rent and Buy: "Vinegar Hill is a hard neighborhood to gauge because there isn't a lot of turnover," says Caleb Taggart, an agent for Douglas Elliman Real Estate. "But when things do become available there, they're highly sought after."

Townhouses in the historic district start at $1 million, according to Taggart. A 1,067-square-foot studio in the new loft building at 50 Bridge Street is priced at $480,000, while an 1,845-square-foot unit with terraces in the same building is going for $1.5 million, according to the Developers Group website.

A two-plus-bedroom luxury apartment in a historic-district brownstone just rented for $3,000, said Taggart, and Craigslist has been advertising two Vinegar Hill rentals since late November: a two-bedroom unit in the newly developed 260 Water Street building for $2,200, and a one-bedroom at Water and Hudson for $1,350 per month.

What to Check Out: The Vinegar Hill Historic District comprises century-old brownstones in three separate groups: along Front Street, at the corner of Gold and Water streets, and along Hudson Avenue between Front and Plymouth streets. The bright-yellow Dorje Ling Buddhist Center at Front and Gold streets looks a little like a car dealership bedecked with prayer flags, testifying to the quirkiness of the area, and the center occasionally opens its doors to the public. The former navy commandant's house also merits a look. The white, gated mansion at the cul-de-sac of Little and Evans streets boasts a sweeping view of the city—but it's now a private residence, owned since 1997 by a Rockefeller University neurobiology professor.

Hangouts, Parks & Restaurants: Vinegar Hill lacks services. A tiny Fine Food supermarket, Chinese restaurant, and a deli sit opposite the Farragut Houses on York Avenue. Lano's Family Café on Bridge Street has typical diner fare, while its neighbor Los Papi's Restaurant serves up Spanish standards. The attractive storefronts of Hudson Avenue are screaming for a funky little café. But residents take advantage of DUMBO's burgeoning service industry—Superfine, Grimaldi's, Pedro's, and the DUMBO General Store are 10 minutes away by foot. Same goes for parks. The jewels of Brooklyn's waterfront, Empire–Fulton Ferry State Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park, lie just a short stroll down Plymouth Street.

Politicians: City Councilman David Yassky, State Assemblymember Joan L. Millman, State Senator Martin Connor, and U.S. representatives Nydia Velásquez, Edolphus Towns, and Major Owens, all Democrats.

Crime Statistics: The 84th precinct covers Vinegar Hill, DUMBO, and Downtown Brooklyn. As of November 28, the police report zero murders this year, down from one last year; five rapes, up from three this time last year; 193 robberies, down from 276; 131 felonious assault, down from 143; 159 burglaries, down from 165.

[Derek2k3]

Project # 23

99 Gold Street
89-107 Gold Street/240-248 Gold Street
6 stories 70 feet (Conversion)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Kay Gold Properties LLC
Residential Condominiums
71 units 109,200 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/50267537.jpg

http://www.scaranoarchitects.com/

99 Gold Street is a renewal pioneer within the area's industrial landscape. An upscale loft conversion is the latest trend in stylish city living, which redefines the 19th-century concrete and block building, originally designed to house and supply New York's souvenir market. Following that industry's decline and decades of misuse and neglect, vast quality-of-life improvements are assured by this adaptive reuse.

Given the value of its location, breathtaking views of both Brooklyn and Manhattan and its close proximity to public transportation, the building is being converted into 88 sleek, spacious 1 and 2 bedroom loft-style apartments with cutting edge design and state of the art finishes. All apartments, ranging from 600 sq ft studios and 2000 sq ft penthouses, have high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and large balconies.

As a result of this project and others that will soon follow, the area has been transformed into the ideal neighborhood for successful artists and professionals with a taste for urban living, and it provides another link in connecting Brooklyn's downtown neighborhoods.

[Derek2k3]

Project # 24

35-45 Front Street
10 stories
Residential
90 units 88,000 Sq. Ft.
Boymelgreen Developers
Proposed

http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/US_010.asp

Project Name: 35 - 45 Front Street (Nova Clutch)

Location/Neighborhood: Brooklyn/DUMBO

Address: 35 - 45 Front Street


Project Objective: This project is ideally situated at one of the primary gateways to the "up and coming" DUMBO neighborhood. The location presents an excellent opportunity for both design and community building. Two blocks from the Hudson River , the development site is an assemblage of three separate parcels. A new luxury residential condominium project is planned and will include the full menu of signature A.I. & Boymelgreen amenities. A retail and parking component will also be included.

Total Buildout sf: 88,000

Use: Residential

New Construction sf: 88,000

Residential sf: 88,000

Transportation: Direct driving access exists from the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges with additional access via the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Ferry transportation between DUMBO and Manhattan is a three-minute walk from the development site. Five (5) subway lines are conveniently located within walking distance, to include the A,C,F,2, and 3 trains.

Approximate Completion: 12/2005


Project #25

183 Water Street
183-187 Water Street/56 Jay Street
Scarano & Associate Architects
Residential
Proposed


Project#26

206 Front Street
7 stories 70 feet
Karl Fischer Architect
Dev-G.L. Realty
Residential Condominiums
33 units 46,000 Sq. Ft.
Proposed 2005-2006

Just a few more projects left. I'll also try and conjure up make a map to make the locations of these buildings clear.

[Kolbster]

Thats pretty admirable....26 projects...wow

[Derek2k3]

Project #27

Empire Stores Redevelopment
Water Street between Dock and Main Streets
Walker Group
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Mixed use (restaurants, retail shops, art galleries and performance spaces)
400,000 Sq.Ft.
Proposed 2007


http://www.wgcni.com/portfolio/urban/_6_EMPIRE_STORES.jpg

http://www.theempirestores.com

The Empire Stores offer both commerce and culture;
showcasing local retail and dining traditions with the latest
in international trends, ideas, and lifestyle.

Overlooking and engaging Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Establishing a 24-hour bustling destination.
Creating the greatest special event venue in New York.
Serving one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in the city
Defining the historic character of the district.
Creating a center for local arts and culture.

The dramatic history and scale of this bold landmark
structure sets it apart from every other retail and mixed-use
development in New York City. This is not a shopping mall.

Seven contiguous monumental buildings.
Constructed over sixteen years, from 1869 to 1885.
Original structures are in superb condition, featuring historic
materials and details.
Listed on the National Register of Historical Places
Designated as a New York City Landmark.


http://www.africa-israel.com/eng/US_007.asp

Project Name: Empire Stores

Location/Neighborhood: Brooklyn/DUMBO

Project Objective: Majestically located on the waterfront between the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges and clearly visible from Manhattan , the Empire Stores is a series of seven, three and four-story warehouses totaling approximately 400,000 sf. A.I. & Boymelgreen won the right to redevelop the existing buildings from the Brooklyn Bridge Development Corporation, a subsidiary of the State and City Economic Development Corporations. Empire Stores will include extensive space for retail , office, art galleries, cultural spaces, and a special public event space. The Empire Stores will become a major shopping destination in downtown Brooklyn and a hot spot for nightlife and dining.

Total Buildout sf: 400,000

Use: Commercial/Retail

Renovation sf: 400,000 (landmark buildings)

Transportation: Direct driving access exists from the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges with additional access via the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Ferry transportation between DUMBO and Manhattan is a three-minute walk from the development site. Five (5) subway lines are conveniently located within walking distance, to include the A,C,F,2, and 3 trains.

Approximate Completion: 12/2006


Brooklyn Waterfront Landmark to Be Remade
by GLENN COLLINS
December 3, 2003
New York Times

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4027&page=2&highlight=dumbo+empire

It is called the Empire Stores, and for more than 50 years the cavernous, forbidding warehouse has been abandoned, a magnificent ruin between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges along the East River.

A signature of the Brooklyn skyline for at least 130 years that has transfixed residents and, to an extent, defined the waterfront, it has nonetheless resisted all efforts of developers, public officials and community stewards to reclaim it.

Now, Empire State Development Corporation, owner of the warehouse, has, through a subsidiary, signed an agreement with Boymelgreen Developers to transform it into a $100 million gateway to Brooklyn from the East River.

According to this plan, the echoing spaces, cobwebs and rusting iron shutters of the 400,000-square-foot structure, a city and state landmark in the neighborhood known as Dumbo, are to yield to a Chelsea Market-ish conglomeration of restaurants, retail shops, art galleries and performance spaces. Its opening is scheduled for 2007.

The proposal has been met by skepticism from another builder, and watchfulness from the community, but the development corporation has expressed only jubilation. "We are taking back the waterfront, and this building, with two bridges as bookends, is a Brooklyn showcase," said Charles A. Gargano, chairman of the development corporation and of its state-and-city-run subsidiary, the Brooklyn Bridge Park Development Corporation, which will lease the property to Boymelgreen for 39 years.

Mr. Gargano said that 63 firms expressed interest in the renovation, but in the end three submitted bids. "Boymelgreen had the most to offer, in terms of the proposal and the maintenance that will be involved," which, he said, amounted to "several million a year."

The Brooklyn-based Boymelgreen is hardly an unknown, with 20 projects under development in the five boroughs, which represent an investment of more than $1.5 billion, including 23 Wall Street and 15 Broad Street in Manhattan.

Both Gov. George E. Pataki and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg have issued huzzahs. "Not only will these wonderful buildings be restored, they will be the prototype for supporting a park with community-friendly economic development," Governor Pataki said.

And Mayor Bloomberg gushed: "The mix of office, retail, restaurant and gallery space in this historic structure will really make the waterfront park a destination, and enhance the growing Dumbo neighborhood."

But the deal has been questioned by David C. Walentas, the developer who, years ago, launched the real-estate transformation of Dumbo — the acronym means Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass — and whose control of millions of square feet of mixed-use space there has won him the sobriquet Mr. Dumbo.

"I would be delighted if someone would do this, and quickly, because it would make my neighborhood more valuable," Mr. Walentas said of the development. "But it will sit there. And nothing will happen."

Mr. Walentas, who was one of three developers vying for the Empire Stores revivification, contended that Boymelgreen had overbid for the right to develop the project. "My offer was substantially less," Mr. Walentas said, explaining that high rents at Empire Stores were unrealistic.

However, James F. Moogan, president of the Brooklyn Bridge Park Development Corporation, defended the deal. "This is a realistic bid, and we have realistic expectations," he said, adding that Boymelgreen made a nonrefundable $1 million payment on signing the agreement. "That shows us they believe it's viable. This proposal underwent substantial financial analysis by city and state agencies."

T. William Kim, the Empire Stores project developer for Boymelgreen, said that "this is one of our priorities, and there is no question that it will be completed." He said Boymelgreen, in partnership with an Israeli businessman, Lev Leviev, will put $40 million into the project and finance the rest of the $100 million with its customary investment partners.

Empire Stores sits on landfill deposited in the late 18th century and early 19th century, which extended the reach of the Village of Brooklyn, the future borough's first civic settlement.

A report written by the architectural firm Beyer Blinder Belle, said that the first warehouse buildings at the site, called the Empire Stores (as in storehouses) even then, date back to the 1850's. By 1869 or so, larger private warehouses built by a merchant, James Nesmith, and his son Henry already hugged the shoreline. The finishing touches came in 1886, three years after the Brooklyn Bridge was completed.

Once a storehouse for spices and green coffee beans, the monolithic warehouse is actually composed of seven structures, and has load-bearing, two-foot-thick walls of brick masonry and interior walls of fieldstone. It was framed with massive first-growth lumber from America's primordial pine forest.

In the 1880's, Herman Melville, toiling on Wall Street in the New York Customs House, would have seen the warehouse complex right across the harbor. But he never could have predicted that it would become Brooklyn's 21st-century counterpart of Moby Dick. The Empire Stores remained the great white whale of New York architectural preservation, since, as an industrial building, it flew below the radar of history.

The warehouse declined with the pre-eminence of trucking and railway transportation, and was mostly abandoned in the 1950's. After brief ownership by Con Edison, Empire Stores was taken over by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in 1978.

During the Lindsay administration there were proposals to transform it into a wholesale meat market. During the Koch administration, there were plans for a festival marketplace akin to the South Street Seaport, not to mention a lawsuit by Mr. Walentas against the city. Another development proposal was made in 1991, but went unheeded. In 1999 Mr. Walentas announced a plan to make the Empire Stores a centerpiece of a $300 million cultural and retail complex, but this galvanized community groups into opposing what they said was overdevelopment.

These days, the Empire Stores, on Water Street between Dock and Main Streets, endures in Stygian darkness behind its iron shutters. The buildings still yield the perfume of spices and coffee-bean remnants still crunch underfoot; a flashlight reveals disintegrating floors and onetime workers' graffiti on the walls.

The warehouse was declared a landmark inside and out by both the state and the city in the 1970's. "We want to keep as much of the historic interior as possible," said Jay Valgora, the design principal for Boymelgreen's restoration architect, WalkerGroup, part of the WPP advertising holding company.

It is the largest preservation redevelopment attempted by WalkerGroup, which has developed projects in New York, Tokyo, and Bilbao and Salamanca, Spain. Mr. Valgora's design calls for a ground-floor grand arcade on the side overlooking the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge; a terrace and esplanade would allow access to cafes and retail stores, a mix somewhat like that at Chelsea Market, the successful arcade in Manhattan created from a former Nabisco cookie factory.

He would also construct several glass-and-steel atriums coexisting with the old walls, creating courtyards spanned with glass bridges. Unlike the South Street Seaport, Mr. Valgora said, the space would "not be an evocation of Ye Olde New York." Instead, he said, "we're hoping for destination retail stores, such as unique Brooklyn design and furniture companies."

Above the warehouse, atop a new public park on the roof, would be a curving sculptural structure that would be lit at night. "We hope," Mr. Valgora said, "it can become another symbol for Brooklyn."

All of Mr. Valgora's architectural additions must be approved by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. And beyond that, the project must undergo an environmental impact study.

The mixed-use proposal for the warehouse is part of a community-generated master plan from 2000, guiding the economic development of Brooklyn Bridge Park, a 67-acre stretch of waterfront between Atlantic Avenue and Jay Street that would be turned into a riverside promenade with recreational and cultural amenities and limited commercial development.

The plan will thus be closely scrutinized by the community. Residents have opposed traffic-clogged streets and other threats they saw in more grandiose proposals. Mr. Moogan, president of the development corporation, said that Community Board 2 had been briefed on the Boymelgreen plan. He said, "We are committed to sustained public involvement," through the development corporation's 25-member citizen's advisory council.

Marianna Koval, executive director of the Brooklyn Bridge Park Coalition, an alliance of some 60 community groups, said that the Empire Stores was "the jewel in the crown of this park." Having seen elements of the Boymelgreen plan, she said the coalition would monitor the development, but "is cautiously optimistic."

Others in the neighborhood are more openly enthusiastic. "I would welcome other restaurants," said Buzzy O'Keeffe, who became a pioneer in the transformation of the Brooklyn waterfront after fighting for 12 years to be able to open the River Cafe in 1977. "My basic feeling is that any improvement down here is good for the area."


This is a section of the warehouses not being developed...atleast commercially.

[Gulcrapek]

^That one there I think is the Tobacco Warehouse, Empire Stores are more north. I think.

[Kolbster]

[QUOTE=Derek2k3]Project #27

Empire Stores Redevelopment
Water Street between Dock and Main Streets
Walker Group
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Mixed use (restaurants, retail shops, art galleries and performance spaces)
400,000 Sq.Ft.
Proposed 2007



It's actually approved; it is just currently is the process of design and acquiring stores

[Kolbster]

^That one there I think is the Tobacco Warehouse, Empire Stores are more north. I think.


Nope, those are the Empire stores

[Derek2k3]

Well the photos I posted are in a separate gutted warehouse, right next to the redevelopment project. I just thought it was all the same complex.

[billyblancoNYC]

Well the photos I posted are in a separate gutted warehouse, right next to the redevelopment project. I just thought it was all the same complex.

You're right, these are the Empire Stores to be. It's across from Jacques Torres and next to the Villa building.

The tobacco warehouse, I think, will be left open as is.

http://www.bbpc.net/TobaccoWarehouse.html

[Kolbster]

Nope, those are the Empire stores
Yup, as i said before

[Stern]

Yes! Ive seen factories turned to shopping venues so many times in other cities, they are always successful and I think they’re terrific.

[Derek2k3]

Project # 28

91 Hudson Avenue
91-93 Hudson Avenue
3 stories 34 feet
T. F. Cusanelli Architecture & Planning
Dev-Vinegar Hill Group LLC
Residential Condominiums
3 units 6,112 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

Scarano designed this superior unbuilt design.

Scarano & Associate Architects

http://www.scaranoarchitects.com/multifamily2.html

91 Hudson Street is a design for new 2-family residences in the recently gentrified Vinegar Hill section of Brooklyn, Totaling at 5,000 square feet in area. This irregular shaped site help to create the solution you see.

This playful and colorful design echoes the eclectic nature of the area, once an industrial park, which has evolved from proximity to the shipping-oriented East River. Today, the area has become a desirable residential neighborhood for the same reasons.

The complex shapes of this building and its vibrant colors intensify the dramatic effect, which is made possible through the use of applied stucco, and the triangular lot shape. The apartments are duplexes with multi-level studio apartments at the ground level, and all have exterior recreation areas. The definition of “open space”, or “yard”, was expanded to create alternating enclosed and open areas – intimate gardens intertwined with diverse interiors, which are flexible and dynamic.

[Derek2k3]

Last project for now...

Project #29

9-17 Evans Street
3 stories 31 feet
T. F. Cusanelli Architecture & Planning
Dev-Vinegar Hill Group LLC
Residential Condominiums
3 units 6,112 Sq. Ft. (x5 buildings)
Completed 2003-2005

Just like the last project, Scarano designed something interesting and basura was built instead.

Scarano & Associate Architects

http://www.scaranoarchitects.com/multifamily2.html

New Residential Development in the low density Navy Yard / Vinegar Hill section of Brooklyn redefines the boundaries of residential town homes by using modern materials in an old way.

With a total area of 30,000 square feet, eight, two family homes with, private parking for each house was proposed for the site. The design attempts to depart from the wood clap board homes in the area introducing curved metal roofing with brick and aluminum cladding, echoing the industrial nature of the area.

The emergence of the adjoining neighborhood of DUMBO has caused many people to consider this area their home. As the residents continue to pour in, many believe that Vinegar Hill possesses a quaint character not found in other more developed sections of Brooklyn. Narrow cobble stone streets, which wind around the Brooklyn Navy Yard and historic structures still remaining, create the charm that one finds in much less densely populated cities around the country.

Evans Street projects get its charm from its scale and use of modern materials.

[Derek2k3]

You can e-mail me if you'd like a larger version of the file or an Exel spreadsheet of all the projects.

Project #1

53 Bridge Street
Scarano & Associates Architects
Dev-Kay Bridge Properties /53 Bridge, LLC
12 stories 162 feet 6 story addition
130,740 Sq. Ft.
Residential Condominiums
Under Construction 2004-2006

Project #2

Beacon Tower
85 Adams Street
23 stories 314 feet
Cetra/Ruddy Incorporated
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
77 units 115,424 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-Summer 2006

Project # 3

The Nexus
84 Front Street
11 stories 120 feet
Meltzer Mandl Architects of Manhattan
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
44 units 72,302 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-Late 2005

Project #4

110 York Street
6 stories 84 feet (2 story addition)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Commercial Office
5,000 Sq. Ft. Addition
Completed 2003-October 2004

Project # 5

River Hotel
Main Street Pier, Brooklyn Waterfront
9 stories 100 feet
Ateliers Jean Nouvel
Dev-Two Trees Management Co.
Commercial Hotel
250 Rooms 350,000 Sq.Ft.
Proposed as Residential

Project # 6

NYC 2012 Voleyball & Handball Arena
85 Jay Street
Rafael Vinoly Architects
Dev-NYC 2012
Sports and Recreation
13,563 sq feet (can't be right)
Unbuilt

Project #7

J Condo
100 Jay Street
31/33 stories 337 feet
Gruzen Samton Architects
Dev-Hudson Companies Incorporated
Residential Condominiums
260/267 units 407,129 Sq. Ft.
Proposed 2005-2006

Project #8

Bridgefront
67/65-71 Front Street/42-44 Main Street
10 stories 120 feet
Elena Kalman Architect
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominium
21 units 37,160 Sq. Ft.
Completed Early 2003

Project #9

The Bridges/The Bridge Street Condominium
79 Bridge Street
6 stories 70 feet (2 story addition)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Kay Bridge Properties/Howard Klaus Partnership
Residential Condominiums
37 units 51,141 Sq. Ft.
Completed 2003


Project #10

133 Water Street
12 stories 120 feet
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Jack Guttman Partners
Residential Condominium
52 units 85,477 Sq. Ft.
5.000 Sq. Ft. of Retail & Community Space
Under Consruction 2003-2006

Project #11

10 Jay Street
Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects
16 stories (7 story addition)
Proposed

Project #12

RiverFront
57 Front Street
7 stories 84 feet(Conversion)
Elena Kalman Architect
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Residential Condominiums
33 units 51,781 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

Project #13

Commodore’s Court
85 Hudson Avenue
5 stories 50 feet
K & K Engineering
Dev-The Constellation Group
Residential Condominiums
9 units 12,957 Sq. Ft.
Completed Late 2004

Projects #14-17

Watchtower Residence Hall I
85 Jay Street
20 stories 222 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall II
85 Jay Street
18 stories 195 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall III
85 Jay Street
9 stories
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Watchtower Residence Hall IV
85 Jay Street
9 stories
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York
Proposed 2006

Project #18

40 Main Street
4 stories 67 feet(1 story addition)
Simino Architects
Mixed Use
Completed 2002?

Project #19

Fulton Ferry Landmark Condominiums
4 Water Street
6 stories 76 feet
Oaklander, Coogan & Vitto
Dev-4 Water LLC
Residential Condominiums
13 units 24,142 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction Summer 2004-2005

Project #20

37 Bridge Street
10 stories 110 feet
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Howard Klause
Residential Condominiums
60 units 103,077 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2006

Project # 21

65 Washington
61-65 Washington Street
13 stories 120 feet
Stephen B Jacobs Group
Dev-Two Trees Management
Residential Rental
54 units 62,857 Sq. Ft.
Completed October 2001

Project # 22

38 Water Street
38-62 Water Street
16 stories 178 feet
Beyer Blinder Belle
Dev-Two Trees Management
Residential Condominiums
200 units
On Hold

Project # 23

99 Gold Street
89-107 Gold Street/240-248 Gold Street
6 stories 70 feet (Conversion)
Scarano & Associate Architects
Dev-Kay Gold Properties LLC
Residential Condominiums
71 units 109,200 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

Project # 24

35-45 Front Street
10 stories
Residential
90 units 88,000 Sq. Ft.
Boymelgreen Developers
Proposed

Project #25

183 Water Street
183-187 Water Street/56 Jay Street
Scarano & Associate Architects
Residential
Proposed

Project#26

206 Front Street
7 stories 70 feet
Karl Fischer Architect
Dev-G.L. Realty
Residential Condominiums
33 units 46,000 Sq. Ft.
Proposed 2005-2006

Project #27

Empire Stores Redevelopment
Water Street between Dock and Main Streets
Walker Group
Dev-Boymelgreen Developers
Mixed use (restaurants, retail shops, art galleries and performance spaces)
400,000 Sq.Ft.
Proposed 2007

Project # 28

91 Hudson Avenue
91-93 Hudson Avenue
3 stories 34 feet
T. F. Cusanelli Architecture & Planning
Dev-Vinegar Hill Group LLC
Residential Condominiums
3 units 6,112 Sq. Ft.
Under Construction 2004-2005

Project #29

9-17 Evans Street
3 stories 31 feet
T. F. Cusanelli Architecture & Planning
Dev-Vinegar Hill Group LLC
Residential Condominiums
3 units 6,112 Sq. Ft. (x5 buildings)
Completed 2003-2005

[Archit_K]

Wow, nice work! Did you make this map yourself?

[Kolbster]

Wow