Haute Residence chatted with vice president of Sterling Equities Greg Katz about the company's newest development, 345 Carroll Street—a full-service luxury residential located in the coveted Brooklyn neighborhood of Carroll Gardens. Comprised of 32 unique residences, the opulent building is reportedly already over 40% sold.
Read on to learn what makes the newly-minted condominium unique, and how its developer went about selecting the individuals responsible for designing its structure and interiors.
What sets 345 Carroll Street apart from other luxury residential buildings existing (or sprouting up) in Carroll Gardens?
345 Carroll introduces a rare full-service luxury building to the neighborhood. The residences, which range in size from two-to-four bedroom apartments, appeal to a wide variety of people. The building's bluestone façade is eye-catching, unlike any that of any other new development in the area. It also offers large bay windows with a ton of light, a double-height lobby, vast amenities, and top-of-the-line fixtures and finishes. Carroll Gardens has never seen a building quite like this.
In what ways is each of the building’s 32 residents unique?
The majority of the apartments have their own unique layout, which buyers have been drawn to. The floor plans are thoughtfully designed, resulting in garden duplexes with private yards, multi-story penthouses with terraces and roof decks, and more. More than half of the apartments have private outdoor spaces.
How did your company initially go about selecting an architect to design the development?
We interviewed several firms we believed would be appropriate for a luxury development in Brooklyn. We ultimately decided to hire Gluck+ because its architects shared a similar vision for the site. They understood that architecture could create significant value. There also needed to be items that differentiated us from the other new development projects on the market, like the bay windows and bluestone façade. They recognized the importance of creating luxurious homes in an efficient square footage.
Describe the lifestyle 345 Carroll Street provides.
In addition to a doorman, superintendent and porter services, residents can enjoy a 5,300-square-foot private rooftop including a landscaped garden with quiet alcoves, a vegetable garden, and a bocce court. A children’s playroom, fitness center, pet grooming station, and bicycle storage are also being offered, and private storage units and private parking are available for purchase.
Are any of the building’s features/offerings one-of-a-kind? Talk about what it offers that similar luxury condominiums in NYC might not be able to provide.
The building is located in one of Brooklyn’s most elegant historic districts, which sets it apart off the bat. The design elements are beautiful, and being able to grow vegetables in your own garden and have the option to play bocce are definitely uncommon yet welcoming perks.
Does the finished structure wholly reflect the image you initially had in mind for the development? In what ways does it differ from the design your company original envisioned?
The final design of the building is consistent with the overall feel we were looking for when we initially got involved with this project. However, we did not go in with a specific design concept. We tried to be open during the design process and not limit ourselves to a particular aesthetic. I believe we achieved our goals of creating a development that is contextual in the neighborhood, yet still has a more contemporary feel.
Why did you decide to erect the condominium in Brooklyn, as opposed to Manhattan? What do you think are the benefits of a Brooklyn-based lifestyle versus one rooted in Manhattan?
We are big believers in both Brooklyn and Manhattan. The opportunity with this project arose because we recognized the supply and demand imbalance that existed (and still does) for luxury condominiums in Brooklyn. There are people who gravitate towards the cultural and nightlife options that Brooklyn has to offer, and prefer more of a neighborhood feel. I don’t believe it is a case of one area being better than another, but more of an individual preference.
