Proposed renderings of 107 COlumbia Heights
Clipper Realty is moving ahead with plans to convert 107 Columbia Heights in Brooklyn Heights into 160 market-rate rentals. The publicly-traded company led by David Bistricer picked up the 154,000-square foot property from the Jehovah’s Witnesses last year for $87.5 million or $569 per square foot according to The Real Deal.
The 10-floor, L-shaped building is located between Orange and Pineapple streets, steps from northern entrance to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. City records show the building was built in 1960 and was used as a dorm by the religious organization. Building permits to convert and modify the structure were filed in June and list Beyer Blinder Belle as the architects of record.
Current exterior (via LPC presentation materials)
The building lies within the Brooklyn Heights Historic District (pdf) which was designated 6 years after the completion of 107 Columbia Heights. The Landmarks Preservation Commission approved changes that include a new 9' stair bulkhead and 12' mechanical bulkhead and screenwall on the roof, as well as new windows, new entrance for a garage, a new glass and metal canopy, and glass panels behind existing railings among the alterations to the ground floor. Commissioner Jeanne Lutfy said such contextual changes would unify aspects of the building and not detract from the historic district.
Per the presentation materials, the building’s Modernist façade of granite panels contrasted by red brick and sliding windows above, is here to stay. The building’s primary entrance will continue to be through a landscaped courtyard that will be spruced up with new pavements, water features and plantings. All building materials will be in kind; the original window manufacturer will even be involved in the replacements. Bistricer previously told The Real Deal that they would convert several public spaces in the building to secure additional apartments.
Entryway (Beyer Blinder Belle)
Building permits show there will be 159 units inside, with 9 to 15 apartments per floor. Listed amenities include a lounge, bike parking, a 68-car garage, a library and laundry room. The top floor of the building sets back, allowing for apartments to have terraces with iconic views of Manhattan and the East River. A new roof deck will be installed with several seating areas and planted areas.
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