Over the first rainy weekend of Spring Break 2010, lads in tow we trundled up on the Amtrak to spend a few sodden days in Brooklyn. Having only really been to Brooklyn in a couple of three-hour sittings, we looked forward to digging the scene, as it were. Our “Nu”Hotel, situated directly across Smith Street from the famous Brooklyn House of D (at left), is on the northern end of the Boerum Hill neighborhood south of downtown Brooklyn.
The streets were lined mainly with older 3-4-story brick walk-up apartment buildings and rowhouses, with ground-floor retail on the north-south Smith Street and Court Street (with the latter moving into the adjacent Cobble Hill).
As you would expect, the shops featured a great diversity of items for sale, including several bookstores (new and used) and an array of divine eateries, including the delicatessen Mile End and the most recommendable breakfast of Cafe LULUc (the “c” standing for cash-only, now appearing at many fine eateries about the city).
There were a few more recent architectural interventions, but the existing building stock is so good-looking it is challenging for the newbies to stand up to them.
Thayer-D
I love that last infill photo. I’m not sure what the material is, but it seems to have captured that orange red brick so prevalent there.
Thayer-D
Having done my architectural studies in Brooklyn, it’s lovley to see these photos. I love that last infill project, not so much the first two though. The last seems to have a similar texture and detail as the older buildings, but they all seem to fit the rythem of the street.
Thayer-D
I love that last infill project, not so much the first two though. The last seems to have a similar texture and detail as the older buildings.
Thayer
Having spent my student years in Brooklyn, this brings me back. I love that last infill project, not so much the first two though. The last seems to have a similar texture and detail as the older buildings.
Thayer-D
Sorry, seems my e-mails are going through. Can’t wait to see more from my beloved.