The residence is inside one of the last historic factory-to-residential-loft conversions in Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighbourhood, two 100-year-old paint factory buildings, an 1891 Brick and Timber and a 1921 Daylight Factory, that have been transformed by Alloy’s architecture team, which preserved the buildings’ many historic elements; inspiring Robertson with a backdrop for her vision for a contemporary Brooklyn family’s loft.
The site contains two existing, interconnected buildings, 50 Jay and 42 Jay which share a cellar and exterior courtyard. 50 Jay was built in 1891 and is a five-storey structure with brick and timber construction. 42 Jay was built in 1921 and is a seven-storey reinforced concrete building with large daylight factory windows. The development plan is to convert the existing structures to residential condominiums and add new penthouse additions. There will be a one storey enlargement on 50 Jay and a two-storey enlargement on 42 Jay.
Historic daylight factory windows enveloping the space present bright and airy rooms with ample natural light. Layering in soft, organic textures, furnishings, artwork and accessories, Robertson sought to create a space that feels lived in rather than decorated. Well versed in antique furnishings, her firm emphasises sourcing from small vendors and craftspeople resulting in accessories that feel found and collected.
The two iconic Dumbo building types are brought together around a private courtyard; featuring 46 unique homes that include townhouses, brick and timber lofts, daylight factory lofts, and contemporary penthouse additions.
Construction commenced in Spring 2019 and remains underway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.