The Society for Clinton Hill had what we’re sure was a record turn-out yesterday for the 30th Anniversary House Tour. (The tour got so much buzz that a thief even robbed the ticket table in Fort Greene Park on Saturday; did anyone encounter any scalpers?) We got a kick out of seeing the two Pratt mansions on Clinton Avenue and found artist Kris Krohn’s loft building at 281 Greene Avenue interesting; there was a neat display of Broken Angel renderings and concept drawings in Higgins Hall as well. By all accounts, 258 Hall Street, with its budget-conscious but very cool reno by the owner-architects, was the highlight of the private homes on the tour. While several of the other houses were charming and clearly reflected the personal styles of their owners, we couldn’t help but wish there had been a few brownstones or mansions with the kind of “wow” factor you’d expect given the housing stock in the nabe; the mix was definitely less impressive than the Fort Greene tour last year, we thought. At least the weather provided a perfect back-drop to show off the area’s architecture and charm. It also made for a great backdrop for the Brownstoner gathering at Ici, where we got a chance to chat with many readers. Thanks to everyone who made the effort to stop by. Lots of pics on the jump.
May 6: A Busy Day for House Tours! [Brownstoner]

245 Clinton Avenue, George DuPont Pratt Mansion

245 Clinton Avenue, George DuPont Pratt Mansion

The line outside 238 Washington Avenue

258 Hall Street, the highlight according to many

The top-floor loft at 281 Greene Avenue

Broken Angel drawings at Higgins Hall

Brownstoner party in the garden at Ici

Brownstoner party in the garden at Ici

Brownstoner party in the garden at Ici

Brownstoner party in the garden at Ici