I used to work for the architect many years ago, and I think his work has gotten better over time. The rendering on his site indicates that the base wall has some transparency, which is unclear in the photo with the scaffolding. I actually find Dan's design sophisticated in a playful way, but have not seen the building in real life. One reason I like it is that it respects the scale of the buildings around it, alway a nice feature. Architecture is hard, believe me I know, so I am willing to give this one the benefit of the doubt. The imagery on the building's website, well that's another issue...

Posted by: jfmarch at August 13, 2009 10:07 AM in response to Scaffolding Down at Greenpoint's Pencil Factory

I went into the complex a fews years ago for am anniversary of Pratt's chaplain (I'm an alumni). The interior 'courtyard' is really nice. It was finally great to be inside the building that I used to view from the 9th floor of Willoughby dorm for 5 years. I hope greed doesn't come a knockin...

Posted by: jfmarch at December 17, 2008 11:26 AM in response to Willoughby Avenue Convent Closing, Future Uncertain

Our first visit to the flea, to visit our friends from Trove and our old nabe and alum Pratt. It is a great flea and will will be back but man was it hot. I had to catch the sweat pellets as they fell off my head before they hit the postcards from vintage. Our boys enjoyed the ice cream, the mini tacos and bargaining for old cigarette lighters. The dollar water guy on the corner was the place to be- did I say it was hot? We will see you again this fall!

Posted by: jfmarch at September 15, 2008 10:13 AM in response to Flea Wrap: Superstar DJ Edition

Looks like a mini-Battery Park City for well off Wall Street types. Only BPC has access to much existing transit. I have real issues with the Tolls as they came into my nabe (in PA), and ruined the streets with there upscale townhouses. My main issue is that this company has no talent or sensitivity when it comes to urban design. Plus, any company that refers to house as 'product' showing their true colors. Anyway, that lady jogger and the water taxi are god for a chuckle. Good luck, Gowanus!

Posted by: jfmarch at March 28, 2008 12:19 PM in response to Reps From Toll Brothers Detail Big Gowanus Development

i betcha its a film my neighbor is producing...

Posted by: jfmarch at December 12, 2007 5:04 PM in response to Closing Bell: 'Untitled Russian Project' on Washington Ave