Mixed Use Building

Condominium & Retail
Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Located at a prominent intersection in Williamsburg neighborhood, the mixed-use building was designed for a Brooklyn based developer. It is a contemporary interpretation of a well established New York City building type. The minimalist façade of light brick stands out with its rhythmic arrangement of tall, black-framed windows. On the ground floor, fully glazed commercial spaces with transparent storefronts are open onto the street, activating the public space and reinforcing the urban character of the site.

The building was constructed on an unusual triangular plot of land. It takes full advantage of the disproportionately large street frontage and shallow plot depth allowing for interiors to be illuminated from two directions. The natural light flooding through the large floor-to-ceiling windows combined with 10 foot tall spaces make the apartments feel much more specious than their footprints would suggest. This is particularly true of the duplexes with their generous, open stairs and landscaped terraces opening to spectacular views of Manhattan.

Kitchens with marble-finished islands are the heart of every apartment – minimalist yet elegant. Cabinet faces are in shades of beige and cream to emphasize the calm, tranquil character of the space, while concealed appliances ensure a clean visual appearance.

On the top floor are two two-story penthouses. The mezzanines are illuminated by large top-floor windows, and private terraces offer unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline. The rooftop space has been designed as a relaxation area with greenery, garden furniture, and a fire pit – a contemporary response to the need for an urban oasis in a densely built-up neighborhood.

 661 Driggs Avenue is an example of architecture that not only addresses urban challenges – such as the difficult geometry of the plot – but turns them into an asset. It stands out for its consistency and subtle beauty, which do not dominate but complement the urban fabric. This is architecture that serves its users but also – respectfully – responds to the history of the place.

Completion: 2023