Brooklyn Modern #4: Green, Industrial Wonderland
[nggallery id=”26450″ template=galleryview] And now, the final in our mini-series looking at homes featured in Brooklyn Modern by Diana Lind, with photographs by Yoko Inoue. Here’s Diana’s installment #4: Susan Boyle and Benton Brown live the dream that probably many Brownstoner readers have only the time to fantasize about. The couple bought a package of…
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And now, the final in our mini-series looking at homes featured in Brooklyn Modern by Diana Lind, with photographs by Yoko Inoue. Here’s Diana’s installment #4:
Susan Boyle and Benton Brown live the dream that probably many Brownstoner readers have only the time to fantasize about. The couple bought a package of industrial buildings in Crown Heights, re-selling a few and keeping two of the most precious to renovate into a green residential loft building and a commercial rental building. Their own duplex apartment sits on the penthouse of the former building and features reclaimed materials throughout. A stunning bookcase is made from timbers found on site, the bathrooms are fitted with vintage fixtures and tubs and sinks, even their bedroom closet’s doors are made from former ambulance doors. The buildings were renovated with a 30-year plan in mind — but for now, some eco-friendly aspects such as a green roof that catches rain run-off and tall windows that provide natural light and ventilation are already cutting down the building’s already-low environmental impact.
I think the “in” phrase is rustic modern or modern barn or something like that.
They bought a package of industrial buildings: Of course they had a great sense of foresight, but they also had a great deal of money. Let’s not kid ourselves that “a little money and vast amounts of creativity” is the only prerequisites to obtain such a stunning home.
How is this modern? I can’t think of a pre-modern period to which it belongs. Look at the industrial materials, open shelving, and the general openness and simple lines.
However, the middle photo of the file cabinets doesn’t add much. Looks more like the cluttered walls of Buzz-o-rama in Kensington than anything worthy of a design book or magazine.
“How is this MODERN?”
You’re kidding, right.
Well it ain’t traditional!!
Although, I would classify this Contemporary.
“I hate people like this. You know, with foresight, a little money and vast amounts of creativity.”
Yeah this is a great line, Could be brownstoner quote of the day!
Gee, I dunno, billy. Doesn’t DWR sell reproductions of some of those pieces?
How is this MODERN?
I pass this place everytime I take the B65 bus home, and I have always been in awe of their vision and determination to live and develop an area that most people wouldn’t touch. I’ve seen this apartment in other articles, they got lots of press, accolades and awards. I have this book, actually, and love being able to really see what they did. I really like creative reuse, lots of brick and reclaimed wood, added to period details, and quirky personal touches. Kudos.
If you read the article BRG found, it mentions the rest of the area surrounding their house, which is the fabulous old Heinz factory complex on Franklin between Dean and Bergen. I hope the plans for artistic and sensitive development on that site continue. The owners have posted as such, here, and I look forward to seeing progress in the future.
Here it is:
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9A0CE7D71E3FF931A1575BC0A9629C8B63