Located in an iconic waterfront section of Brooklyn, 168 Plymouth is one of the last loft conversions in Dumbo. A collection of 46 residences designed with an industrial aesthetic includes townhouses, lofts and penthouses. The vintage buildings adjoin a private cobblestone courtyard designed by Future Green, a forerunner in landscape urbanism based in Brooklyn. Being mindful of the original structures was essential to the re-development process of these landmarks which were originally warehouse and factory space for Masury & Sons Paintworks.
“The site contains two different historic building typologies, a round arch-style brick and timber building built in 1891 and a concrete daylight factory that was built as an addition 30 years later in 1921,” notes AJ Pires, President of Alloy Development. Newly-constructed penthouse additions cap both buildings, artfully bridging architecture from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.
Sustainability was a key factor in this extensive project, showcasing design elements like massive windows, clear-span spaces, concrete or longleaf pine beams, exposed brick walls and high ceilings, all reflecting the structures’ manufacturing legacy. “The biggest sustainable item of the project is the repurposing of the existing buildings,” explains Pires. “Converting them from their former commercial use into residential use while preserving the bones is more sustainable than it would be to start a building from the ground up.”
The developers rose to the challenge of combining three different housing types while respecting their varying heritages. “As both architects and developers, we are sensitive to Dumbo’s historic past and pay careful attention to the history of both the building and the neighborhood,” Pires remarks. “We have two unique penthouse additions which were designed to complement the historic structures below and were highly regarded by the NYC Landmarks Commission.”
The outdoor spaces are equally important. “The existing courtyard originally served as a vital connection between buildings on the block, and we wanted to replicate that connection as one of the main features. We are transforming the courtyard into a lush landscape with terraced plantings and trees to create a new ecosystem that benefits the residents and the surrounding community.” The common roof deck and penthouses also offer phenomenal views of the city for residents of 168 Plymouth.
And what does Pires think about the coveted setting? “Dumbo’s historic context, scale, proximity to Brooklyn Bridge Park and the waterfront make it a premier destination in Brooklyn,” Pires concludes. That’s an understatement.
For more like this Dumbo loft, check out the recently revealed interiors of 1399 Park Avenue.
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