Greene Avenue House
The project is an innovative corner town house designed to enhance the urban fabric of Clinton Hill. The structure features a five-room triplex on the upper levels that culminates in a distinctive triangular terrace, alongside a four-room duplex centered around a private patio on the lower levels. A small garage provides convenient access from the street.
Constructed using a “domino” style of reinforced concrete, the building's form is both modern and functional. The non-load-bearing facades employ a balloon frame clad in tinted white stucco, allowing for a cohesive and elegant appearance. Each floor features strategically placed, large-format windows that optimize natural light and ventilation while framing diverse urban views. These windows are oriented from east to west, subtly influencing the spatial experience within.
The building's overall volume appears simple and unified, characterized by large solid stucco panels. However, it features a striking 45° cut at the top, creating a dynamic silhouette that responds to the intersection of the streets. One facade acts as a vertical "billboard," exploring the architectural themes of doors and windows, while the opposing facade transitions down a level on Greene Ave, echoing the scale of smaller neighboring structures. This design culminates in a peak that gradually narrows, creating a visual interplay that draws the eye and invites exploration.
The building at 272 Greene Ave is not just a residence; it is a thoughtful contribution to the architectural landscape of Brooklyn. By balancing modern design with contextual sensitivity, the project seeks to foster a vibrant community space while celebrating the unique characteristics of Clinton Hill.
Team
Architects: Inès Lamunière, dl-a, designlab-architecture, Geneva, Switzerland, in partnership with : Matthias Müller, MuNYC architecture pllc
MEP Engineer: ANZ Engineering, LLC
Structural Engineers: LMW Engineering Group, LLC, Linden, NJ, and Ivan Design Engineering Analysis, PLLC, New York, NY
Contractor: First Standard Construction, Inc