FORT GREENE TOWNHOMES

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Built on a previously vacant lot, the project consists of 2 newly constructed back-to-back four-story single family townhomes in the landmarked neighborhood of Fort Greene, Brooklyn. The surrounding townhomes are from the mid 1800’s and are in a broad range of architectural styles. This project gave Horrigan O'Malley the unique opportunity to design a ground-up corner building in a neighborhood that has changed little in the last 160 years. The design objective was to integrate the new building into the neighborhood fabric with respect, not imitation.  Renderings and drawings were approved by neighbors, community board and the NYC Landmark Preservation Commission.  The materials selected allowed for both modern and traditional design gestures, and were used to marry the historical context and the streamlined modern interior. The facades were arranged using the modularity of the brick with double soldier courses to delineate floor levels.  In order to make the most of the natural light and to fit in with the neighborhood context, floor-to-ceiling  bay windows were designed. The traditional language of the cornices and windows on the street façade was balanced with a more contemporary design for the façade facing the rear walled garden. Painted ironwork and precast brownstone elements at the street level were used both functionally and decoratively – nodding to traditional design without using traditional ornamentation.  The gardens on three sides of the home are planted with indigenous plants that will thrive in the city environment.   On the interior we designed a modern interpretation of the traditional row house balustrade using standard steel installed in a sculptural format.  The unique system of balusters with a beautiful new mahogany handrail winds its way elegantly through the house.  Approvals included NYC Landmarks,  New York City Revocable Consent, NYC Department of Transportation and NYC DOB.