Architectural Cases

In a bold architectural move, Commoncraft has unveiled its 545 Metropolitan project in Brooklyn, a testament to innovative urban design. This structure notably employs a cantilevered form, ingeniously extending beyond its footprint to optimize usable area on a tight urban plot. The design has garnered significant attention for its clever use of space and thoughtful response to the challenges of dense city environments.

The 545 Metropolitan building stands as a prime example of how modern architecture can push boundaries to address urban constraints. By projecting its upper floors over neighboring properties, Commoncraft has not only increased the building's internal volume but also created a distinctive visual landmark in Williamsburg. This strategic expansion is particularly relevant in New York City, where every square foot is at a premium.

The architectural community has largely applauded this project. One commentator highlighted its effective integration with New York City's single-stair regulations, suggesting a harmonious blend of innovative design with practical compliance. Another praised the structure's elegant proportions and the evident creativity that underpins its conception, underscoring its success in both form and function.

The application of a cantilever in this manner allows for an expanded living or working area without demanding a larger ground-level footprint, a critical advantage in built-up areas. This design philosophy not only addresses the immediate need for more space but also contributes to the evolving architectural narrative of urban densification.

This development signifies a forward-thinking approach to construction in metropolitan areas, demonstrating that architectural ingenuity can transform perceived limitations into opportunities for distinctive and efficient structures. The positive reception from critics further solidifies 545 Metropolitan's position as a noteworthy contribution to contemporary urban architecture.

Ultimately, Commoncraft's 545 Metropolitan project offers a compelling vision for future urban developments, showcasing how intelligent design can overcome spatial challenges to create impactful and aesthetically pleasing buildings that resonate with both residents and architectural enthusiasts alike.

Architecture firm Bureau de Change has reimagined a 1980s London apartment complex, integrating pink concrete panels crafted from recycled demolition materials. This extensive refurbishment, named Trace, undertaken for developer HGG, involved adding two extra floors, bringing the total to five new residences. The project focused on preserving the original structure while infusing modern, sustainable design elements, offering a compelling blueprint for urban renewal that prioritizes environmental responsibility and aesthetic innovation.

Sustainable Facade: A Fusion of Past and Present

The Trace apartment block in London’s Euston district underwent a significant transformation by Bureau de Change, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovative design. The project's cornerstone is its facade, composed of distinctive pink concrete panels created from recycled demolition debris. This approach not only provides a unique aesthetic but also underscores a commitment to environmental stewardship by repurposing waste materials. The studio meticulously processed old bricks and mortar, crushing them into a fine aggregate to cast the new panels. This method allowed for the preservation of the building's original character while introducing a contemporary and eco-friendly exterior.

Studio co-founder Billy Mavropoulos highlighted the intention behind this material choice: to honor the building's 1980s red brick origins while giving it a fresh identity. The hand-cast concrete panels display a gradient of hues from reddish to pale pink, arranged in a grid pattern. This varied coloration is achieved through different densities of aggregate and color layers within each panel, making every section unique. Complementing the facade are dark-framed, arched windows and a matching top-floor extension, contributing to a cohesive and visually appealing design. The shared entrance also features an arched form and concrete cladding, leading into a central circulation core, blending historical reverence with modern functionality.

Modern Living Spaces: Blending Comfort and Design

Inside the Trace apartment block, Bureau de Change has crafted contemporary living spaces that cater to diverse needs while maintaining a high standard of design and comfort. The renovation introduced a total of five apartments, with three two-bedroom units located on the first, second, and third floors, and two one-bedroom apartments occupying the newly constructed fourth and fifth floors. Each residence is designed to maximize natural light, benefiting from large openings on both the front and rear facades, ensuring bright and airy interiors. The top-floor apartments also feature private terraces, offering residents outdoor space and city views.

The interiors of these apartments are a showcase of bespoke design, featuring contributions from renowned London-based studios such as Jan Hendzel Studio, Sedilia, and A Rum Fellow. These collaborations ensure that each apartment is not only functional but also elegantly furnished with unique pieces that enhance the overall aesthetic. The thoughtful layout and custom design elements create a sophisticated living environment, reflecting a commitment to quality and contemporary style. This integration of local craftsmanship with modern residential design makes Trace a prime example of how urban spaces can be revitalized to offer luxurious, comfortable, and aesthetically rich homes.