The low scale, mixed-use building at 385 Henry Street in Cobble Hill is a modest 19th century survivor that has managed to hold onto its corner lot over the centuries. The 1870s buildings was previously a Building of the Day and Suzanne Spellen noted that because of its location within the Cobble Hill Historic District “this little 19th century gem is going to stay just as it is.”

Sited at the corner of Henry Street and Warren Street the building has commercial spaces on the ground floor and residential above, no doubt flooded with light with all of those windows.

brooklyn architecture cobble hill 385 henry street

Those just quickly walking by the building and gazing at the storefronts might assume it is a utilitarian structure. Taking the time to glance upward reveals a lovely level of detail. Dentil brick lintels top the arched windows of the second story.

brooklyn architecture cobble hill 385 henry

A bracketed cornice wraps along both exposed facades of the building and more than holds its own against the cornice of the taller rowhouses adjoining it.

brooklyn architecture cobble hill 385 henry street

The architect is unknown, but the designation report dates the building to 1871. An 1880 Brooklyn atlas from G.W.Bromley identifies the building as a stable. Mentions of other commercial enterprises in the building do turn up in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, including a lunch counter in the 1930s.

The building went condo in 2009 and now houses a cleaners, pilates studio, and apartments.

brooklyn architecture cobble hill 385 henry street

[Photos by Susan De Vries]

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