Gene Kaufman-designed project tops out in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Brooklyn, NY A seven-story mixed-use residential rental building with both architecture and interiors by Gene Kaufman Architect (GKA) has topped out at 56 North 9th St. in Williamsburg.

The 100,000 s/f building overlooks Bushwick Inlet Park and fronts the East River.

The choice of a waterfront location brings the area full circle. What started out in the late-20th century as an industrial site has, following residential and commercial development elsewhere in Williamsburg, once again become a popular location for development, in this case made possible by zoning for mid-rise structures.

“Williamsburg is this generation’s SoHo, a place of urban transformation that has taken it from industrial decay to artists’ haven to hipster playground and now to vibrant residential community,” said Kaufman, founder of GKA. “This project complements the neighborhood’s evolution and contributes to its growth.”

The building’s exterior cladding is a customized lightweight metal system fabricated in Poland. Retail space occupies the first two floors, with considerable effort and expense having been devoted to transferring the load to a limited number of round interior columns in a grid configuration. The large and expertly engineered commercial spaces allow for maximum flexibility which, along with their terraces and 20 and 16-ft. ceilings (first and second floor, respectively), enhance the appeal of the spaces.

Above the retail floors are four floors of residential units. Most have balconies and terraces that overlook the waterfront, with the views enhanced by the building’s angled façade.  On the seventh floor are three penthouses, each with private access to the roof.

GKA has also designed the interiors, which offer an interplay of textures and light.  The lobby features a 16-foot greenwall on one side and an undulating wall of cool-toned tiles on the other. The reception area and mailroom lie within a giant snail-like spiral of weathered industrial copper. Large storefront windows let in copious sunlight that creates striking effects as it lands on the greenery, tiles and worn, warm surface of the copper.

The theme of textural contrasts continues inside the apartments. The kitchens have lacquered cabinets, stainless steel appliances, Caesarstone® countertops, and tiled backsplashes, while the bathrooms sport polished chrome fixtures, Caesarstone® countertops, exotic wood cabinetry, and showers with tiles that suggest the restfulness of limestone.

The amenities, also designed by GKA, include indoor and outdoor lounge space and a children’s play space.

Ronit Realty LLC is the developer.

GKA has been designing projects in Brooklyn since its founding more than 25 years ago. The firm has an extensive portfolio of work in the area that includes the Hotel and Residences at the Williamsburg, the Decora, the Lucent, Luxe 226, The Dunham and The Rialto.