Historic condo conversion in a family-friendly neighborhood
Carroll Gardens is best known for its pre-war co-ops in historic brownstones, but condo conversions have been increasing through the years. Court Street Lofts is among them. Built in 1913 as the Doehler Die Casting Factory, the 10-story structure originally functioned as a die-casting factory and later housed Wallace’s Chocolates, a former chocolate factory. In the 1980s the building transformed into a rental apartment; a dubious 1977 article in the New York Times titled, “Drab Factory in Brooklyn May Emerge as Cinderella,” further described the building in less than flattering terms: “It is almost a city block square, dirty gray and ugly, almost empty, partly vandalized, with a disreputable-looking water tower sitting atop its roof, a neighborhood eyesore.” Lo and behold, that drab factory conversion did indeed help turn around not just the structure, but Carroll Gardens itself. In 2005 it transformed again to condos and was rebranded as Court Street Lofts, kicking off a multi-year controversy involving renters who claimed they were forced out, followed by slow sales in the early years. Today, the building is considered a desirable option for buyers seeking a condo with industrial details and a storied past.
Industrial loft features and modern amenities
The original factory features are the most impressive aspect of this conversion, namely its columns, 12-foot ceilings and warehouse windows that are almost floor to ceiling; some feature skyline views. The 124 units offer open kitchens equipped with stainless steel appliances, dishwashers and built-in microwaves at a minimum, while unrenovated bathrooms skew more modest with a shower/tub combo and single vanity sinks. Two-bedroom units are the most common, followed by one- and three-bedrooms. The most desirable residences offer enclosed yards with private entrances. Recent prices spanned $800,000 for a 729-square-foot one-bedroom to about $1.6 million for a 1,200-square- foot three-bedroom. The general lack of in-unit washers and dryers, plus the need for window air conditioning, contributes to the building’s lower price point.
Full-service building with a quarter-acre courtyard
As one of the first full-service condos in Carroll Gardens, staff includes a round-the-clock door attendant and live-in super to maintain the building. Neighbors run into each other in the landscaped interior courtyard, whether walking pets or sitting for a spell in one of the Adirondack chairs. A large laundry room serves the building since most units lack washers and dryers. The small basement gym has recently been renovated but feels cramped with equipment. Speaking of space, the condo offers extra storage for a fee, plus a bike room.
Brownstone Brooklyn with gardens and family centric environment
The lofts are on the edge of Carroll Gardens, close to Gowanus, Red Hook and the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. The area has come a long way since the days of urban blight described in the New York Times and now attracts families and those seeking a leafy area with things to do. For example, residents only have to stumble out of bed to catch weekend brunch at Buttermilk Channel across the way, an established destination that often entails long waits for those who arrive past opening time. Court Street is lined with other destination spots too, like Frankies 457 Spuntino for handmade pasta in exposed brick environs and Court Street Grocers for their massive sandwiches. Beyond food, there’s a mix of bars, independent stores and child-centric businesses along both Court and Smith streets.
Close to subway and the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway
The F and G trains at the Smith/9th Street Station are a five-minute walk, but public transportation options are limited beyond buses. However, the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway is close for those who prefer to drive.
Rentals, proximity to Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and additional charges
The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway passes through the neighborhood a couple of blocks away, so noise and pollution are a factor. Many units also serve as rentals, lessening the community vibe considering the building’s more intimate size. Meanwhile, owners must contend with additional monthly charges to cover ongoing facade fixes and upgrading the heating system; this assessment is in effect through 2032.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
3/ 10
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
91/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
96/ 100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score®
100/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
St Mary's Playground
2 min walk
Basketball
Skateboard
Playground
Admiral Triangle Playground
3 min walk
Playground
Carroll Park
9 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Red Hook Recreation Area
9 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Grills
DiMattina Playground
9 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Dog Park
Playground
Gowanus Canal Sponge Park
12 min walk
Bike Trails
Trails
River
Coffey Park
12 min walk
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Mother Cabrini Park
15 min walk
Playground
Thomas Greene Playground
3 min drive
Basketball
Pool
Skateboard
Schools
Source:
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