A New York creative agency has launched a new office on a tree-lined residential block in the Cobble Hill section of Brooklyn. Though numerous commercial alterations wore away much of the former storefront’s original character, Elizabeth Roberts Architects (ERA) has revived the space to restore a sense of clarity and modest presence. “The space had been insensitively chopped up and turned into bland offices. Imagine low acoustic panel ceilings, no trim, vinyl doors,” ERA founding principal Elizabeth Roberts says. “We did our best to return the building to its historical roots.”
The preserved black facade maintains the understated rhythm of the placid block as well as a visual connection to neighboring historic dwellings. Exteriors also inform the replacement of interior vinyl floors with black hexagonal stone tiles. Sundrenched workspaces balance openness with privacy, with daylight deeply infused into the contemporary interiors while views from the sidewalk are shielded. A curated mix of vintage furnishings also imbue warmth and texture complementary to the layered legacy of the neighborhood. Salvaged historic doors replace privacy doors, while wainscoting is added to protect walls from bicycles and other wear and tear. The residential-style office is conceived to maximize comfort while also supporting film and video production as well as focused writing and editing, collaborative sessions, and client meetings. “We wanted an interior that reflected the exterior,” Roberts adds. “A place for informal gatherings with the doors to the street swung wide open but also a place for quiet concentration and hard work.”
