Newly launched boutique condos throughout Brooklyn
After months of trying to engage in social distancing with neighbors on all sides, some city residents are coming to find that there is something to be said for boutique condos or rentals (commonly defined as a low- or mid-rise measuring 50 units or fewer). Fewer units per floor can mean more privacy and space for residents, not to mention fewer other people in the elevator or lobby (a new concern in the age of social distancing).
That being said, it is less likely that residents of boutique buildings would fall into the New York cliché of not knowing one's neighbors, as people are likelier to run into each other in the lobby or mail area. Between greater square footage and a more communal atmosphere, this arrangement can offer the benefits of private homes combined with the convenience of a condominium.
That being said, it is less likely that residents of boutique buildings would fall into the New York cliché of not knowing one's neighbors, as people are likelier to run into each other in the lobby or mail area. Between greater square footage and a more communal atmosphere, this arrangement can offer the benefits of private homes combined with the convenience of a condominium.
Developers, too, are coming to embrace the potential of boutique buildings. Construction of this scale is often perceived as friendlier to established neighborhoods than a new high-rise would be, not to mention more likely to come in at the height restrictions imposed by in-demand historic districts. Additionally, those located in historic districts cannot take shape without the design being approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission ("Landmarks"), making it likelier that the new construction will be congruous with its older surroundings.
In this article:
With all that in mind, boutique buildings aren't necessarily for everyone. While some buildings have incorporated basic amenities like a roof deck or bike room, one can't necessarily expect the array of over-the-top amenities found in a luxury high-rise. Speaking of high-rises, these buildings are most frequently not that, meaning residents aren't likely to enjoy the New York City views some see as a prerequisite. Finally, when capital improvements are required for a building, mathematics dictate that the smaller pool of residences to draw from means the cost per unit will be higher.
Below, we take a look at boutique condominiums that have recently launched sales in both in-demand neighborhoods and farther reaches of Brooklyn alike. The buildings are new to the market, but may not have availabilities for long - between the well-thought layouts, high-end appliances and fixtures, carefully curated amenity offerings, and desirable addresses, these listings are going fast.
Pros of Boutique Buildings
• More privacy and quieter living
• Communal atmosphere with staff and other residents
• Greater likelihood of getting on a board and having a say in the running of the building
• Potentially located in a historic neighborhood where zoning prohibits high-rises
• Fewer availabilities can mean higher valuation
Cons of Boutique Buildings
• Low-rise buildings mean less impressive views
• Less extensive amenity package
• Higher fees for special assessments or other repairs
• Harder to avoid unpleasant neighbors
• Fewer availabilities makes it hard to compare sales history on other units in the building
5 stories | 10 units
4 availabilities from $499,000
4 availabilities from $499,000
1060 Jefferson Avenue (Douglas Elliman)
1060 Jefferson Avenue brings 10 new housing units to a vibrant section of Brooklyn. High ceilings and oversized windows create an airy atmosphere, and features like central heating and air conditioning, integrated speaker systems, washer/dryer hookups, stainless steel kitchen appliances, and baths with heated floors were designed with comfort and convenience in mind. All units come with private outdoor space, and common areas include an outdoor courtyard and roof deck. See all details and availabilities here.
5 stories | 8 units
5 availabilities from $745,000
5 availabilities from $745,000
959 Madison Street (Nest Seekers LLC)
Located at the nexus of Bushwick and Bedford-Stuyvesant, 959 Madison Street brings a contemporary look to the block with its two-toned facade, oversized windows, and glass balconies. Interiors feature high ceilings, recessed lighting, white oak floors, high-end integrated kitchen appliances, energy-efficient heating and cooling, in-unit washer and vented dryer, and internet prewiring. Amenities include video intercom, private storage, a furnished lobby, and a roof deck with cabanas, BBQ hookup, and skyline views. See all details and availabilities here.
4 stories | 10 units
3 availabilities from $645,000
3 availabilities from $645,000
46 Kossuth Place (The Corcoran Group)
The 10 units at 46 Kossuth Place comprise three one-bedrooms and seven two-bedrooms. A two-bedroom maisonette with a private garden has already entered contract, and all other units have private balconies. Interiors feature high ceilings, double-pane windows, kitchens with top-of-the-line appliances, in-unit washer/dryer, and ample storage space throughout. Residential amenities include a fully furnished lounge and a roof deck with skyline views. See all details and availabilities here.
4 stories | 8 units
1 availability for $950,000
1 availability for $950,000
Google Streetview of 467 Tompkins Avenue
467 Tompkins Avenue, #1 (The Corcoran Group)
As of this writing, over half the units at 467 Tompkins Avenue have entered contract. The one publicly listed availability is a two-bedroom maisonette with a large private garden, a thoughtful layout that allows for a home office, oak engineered hardwood floors, a classically designed kitchen, and energy efficient split air conditioning system. The building has a common roof deck and is well situated near local dining and nightlife. See all details and availabilities here.
4 stories | 4 units
2 availabilities from $2,250,000
2 availabilities from $2,250,000
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
89 Douglass Street (Park Property Advisors)
At the intersection of Boerum Hill and Cobble Hill, 89 Douglass Street brings Scandinavian-inspired interiors to a traditional townhouse. All four units enjoy open layouts, carefully selected finishes, high-end panel-concealed appliances, multi-zoned Mitsubishi mini split heating and cooling systems, and in-unit washer/dryers. The fourth-floor unit has a private roof terrace, and every unit comes with a private deeded storage room in the basement. See all availabilities and details here.
4 stories | 4 units
2 availabilities from $1,500,000
2 availabilities from $1,500,000
96 16th Street (Compass)
Gowanus has been in the news lately for a rezoning that could bring approximately 8,500 new housing units to the neighborhood by 2035. However, 96 16th Street is operating at a significantly smaller scale with four floor-through units, all of which offer private outdoor space, thoughtful layouts, discreet cove lighting, white kitchens with stainless steel appliances, primary baths with radiant heated floors, and private storage included. Designer Jorge Mastropietro Architects is known for its integration of green design features, and this building’s include triple-glazed windows, natural materials, and fresh air circulation. See all details and availabilities here.
332 21st Street
4 stories | 4 units
3 availabilities from $1,575,000
4 stories | 4 units
3 availabilities from $1,575,000
Twenty First Street Condominium (Compass)
A short distance from The Green-Wood Cemetery, and on a tree-lined street, all eight units at Twenty First Street Condominium offer outdoor oases of their own. Interiors offer light-filled layouts, airy living rooms, open chef’s kitchens, generous closet space in all bedrooms, luxurious primary baths, video intercoms, and washer/dryer hookups. The crowning glory is a roof deck with views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. See all details and availabilities here.
143 Winthrop Street
4 stories | 10 units
3 availabilities from $585,000
4 stories | 10 units
3 availabilities from $585,000
Winthrop Gardens (The Corcoran Group)
At Winthrop Gardens, nearly half the units have already entered contract. The remaining availabilities all feature high ceilings, oversized windows, custom chef’s kitchens with Italian cabinetry and high-end appliances, Italian-tiled baths, and in-unit washer/dryers. All units have private balconies, and the building is topped with a common roof deck overlooking 270-degree skyline and Brooklyn views. See all details and availabilities here.
2 stories | 2 units
2 availabilities from $2,290,000
2 availabilities from $2,290,000
108 King Street (The Corcoran Group)
On a quiet Red Hook street, an unassuming townhouse has been converted to two duplex condominiums – one with a private backyard and garden, and the other with a massive private roof terrace. Both apartments’ interiors feature high ceilings, Pella windows and doors, modern kitchens, custom baths, and full-sized washer/dryers. See all details and availabilities here.
3 stories | 6 units
3 availabilities from $1,049,000
3 availabilities from $1,049,000
182 Minna Street (Sotheby's International Realty)
While somewhat bulkier than its nearest neighbors, the red brick facade of 182 Minna Street is highly congruous with its surroundings. Only two units per floor allow for excellent privacy, and interiors have 9’ ceilings, wide plank white oak floors, stylish kitchens with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances, generous closet space, and marble primary baths. Nearby transportation options include the D, G, and F trains, but deeded private parking is available for purchase. See all details and availabilities here.
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
6sqft delivers the latest on real estate, architecture, and design, straight from New York City.
