Locals Object To Proposed Bed-Stuy Building In Historic District

BED-STUY, NY — Many locals objected to the development of a new property proposed to city officials on Nov. 14, who claim the new building does not fit the surrounding landmarked Bed-Stuy vibe.

The five-story development, proposed at the corner of Malcolm X Boulevard and Bainbridge Street, would require demolition to make way for housing.

Despite support from the Landmarks Preservation Committee and the Victorian Society of New York, Brooklyn's Community Board 3 and many surrounding homeowners said the development wouldn't match its surrounding Bedford Stuyvesant/Expanded Stuyvesant Heights Historic District.

"This building is completely out of context with the surrounding historic district," said Omar Walker, a nearby resident and architect.

"We really object to this building on many grounds," said Joe Dolce, of the Bainbridge Street Homeowners and Tenants Block Association. "A lot of the details that the architects are proposing really have nothing to do with the Victorian style of the block."

Commissioners largely agreed the development was on the right track, but could make some tweaks to meet locals' concerns.

"There's been lots of suggestions around the table, we'll ask you to go back and think about it and we'll have you back as soon as your ready," said chair Sarah Carroll.

Locals took particular issue with the facade materials, balconies protruding on Malcolm X Boulevard and lack of commercial space.

Some residents asked developers and architects to have more discussions with locals.

"This community, this block, is a community of people who are very proud of their homes," said local Damon Bolden. "This property, how it's designed, is not taking into account the history of the block."

A representative of the property said plans had been adjusted during discussions with the local community board, and that many of the materials were specifically designed to fit the historic district.

"This entire Bainbridge Street if you look at it, it's a very eclectic street composed of multiple different private houses built at different ... times and remodeled at different times and ages. So they don't have any coherence or character that you can directly relate to," said Alexander Zhitnik of ZArchitecture.

Even still, Zhitnik said he was open to making some tweaks.

"I agree that certain details of the project should be reworked," he said.