Williamsburg’s waves of gentrification have polished away much of the industrial grit and charming prices that originally attracted scores of deal-seeking New Yorkers. But just east of the BQE, The Umbrella Factory preserved an authentic piece of local history — with modern improvements. The brick facade and internal steel beams from this former beach umbrella factory, opened in 1943, are visible around a new core of exposed timber and external faces of shimmering glass. “The timber-beam construction is unique. People have really responded positively to it,” says Tamar Krasnow, an agent at M.N.S. Real Estate representing the building. “Floors one through three have the original structure, and that’s where you’re going to have your highest ceiling heights.” Upscale amenities and a rooftop lounge with Manhattan skyline views go toe to toe with new luxury Brooklyn developments, and the L train — less than 200 feet away — is an unbeatable convenience. “People enjoy having walking access to all the shopping, the north side [of Williamsburg] and the waterfront. But you’re set aside from all the hullabaloo, so it’s a little bit quieter and more quaint,” Krasnow says.
In-unit atriums light up the room, laundry closets maximize space
Although some studios are under 500 square feet, they have considerable storage space either in the form of a walk-in closet or laundry room near the front door. One-bedroom units, which go up to 900 square feet, expand upon the rectangular studio layout by attaching a bedroom to the front or back end and adding a kitchen island. Some also have terraces off the living room, and a few first-floor units have private atriums between the sleeping and living areas to bring in more light. Two bedrooms range from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet and include a second bathroom and, in almost all cases, some private outdoor space — from tiny, backyard-facing balconies to massive patios. The few three bedrooms maintain the open kitchen design present in all units, but add a ton of closet space and, in some cases, multiple private terraces.
Timeless designs for forward-thinking buyers
Finishes are identical throughout the building, from the Bertazzoni ranges, Marra Blanca quartz counters and Bosch appliances, to the wall-mounted toilets, LG washer-dryers and soundproof windows. Exposed timber ceilings in the living rooms and original I-beams, which show up in the corners of some kitchens, reiterate the building’s industrial-chic persona. Plus, central heating and cooling means that no window space is sacrificed to bulky A/C units. “It’s kind of timeless in a sense,” Krasnow says of the finishes. “So, in investment terms, you have something that’s gonna look good for a long time.”
Competitive pricing and reasonable carrying costs
Compared to nearby, high-end new developments, The Umbrella Factory’s prices are at the low end. Studios are priced in the low $700,000s, and one bedrooms, which make up the majority of the building, are priced from $1 million to $1.2 million. Prices for two bedrooms start at $1.4 million and go up to $2.2 million for duplex units, and three bedrooms are priced around $2.5 million. Monthly carrying costs, which include common charges and taxes, can vary from $1.2 to $2.1 per square foot, which is lower than the $2.99-per-square-foot average for Manhattan condos, according to 2024 Q1 data from Miller Samuel Inc.
Grill with a view, charge the EV and let the dogs play
Given the building’s mid-rise stature, its amenity package is robust but not as extensive as what might be found in Williamsburg’s waterfront high-rises. The roof deck is the most impressive shared space, with two outdoor grill stations and lounge seating to take in the Manhattan skyline — plus an astroturf play area for dogs. On the lower levels, the fitness center and dog wash, which is like a DIY pet spa, are handy. Even more convenient? An on-site parking garage with EV chargers and purchasable spots for half of the units.
Down-to-earth Williamsburg shopping and dining
Lovable local bars and restaurants run up and down Graham and Metropolitan avenues, so residents always have options for weekday dinners, date-night outings and weekend brunches. The kinds of businesses Williamsburg became known for — art supply stores, vintage clothiers and butcher shops — are steps away, and less than a mile west are newcomers like Apple, Supreme and Whole Foods. Half a mile north, McCarren Park has a swimming pool, running track and relaxing greenspaces.
Less than 200 feet from the subway
The building is steps from the Graham Avenue L train station, which drops off residents in Manhattan along 14th Street. Whether by car or on foot, the Williamsburg Bridge is close by and a useful alternative route into Manhattan. Since Brooklyn can be quickest to navigate on bicycle, there’s also a CitiBike station just around the corner on Graham.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Moderate Crime
Crime Score®
5/ 10
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
91/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
97/ 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
Badame Sessa Memorial Square
6 min walk
Father Giorgio Triangle
7 min walk
Trails
Macri Triangle
8 min walk
Trails
Martinez Playground and Skatepark
8 min walk
Basketball
Skateboard
Trails
Cooper Park
9 min walk
Basketball
Skateboard
Tennis
Ericsson Playground
9 min walk
Basketball
Trails
Playground
Frost Playground
9 min walk
Basketball
Trails
Playground
Lentol Garden
9 min walk
Botanical Gardens
McCarren Park
12 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Football
Schools
Source:
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