The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is set to review a proposal for alterations to 480 Willoughby Avenue, a three-story brownstone in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Designed by Tafadzwa Mwandiambira of Baobab Architects, the project involves updates to both the front and rear façades of the existing three-unit Neo-Grec-style townhouse, including modifications to the attic story, areaway, and cellar access. The property is located between Marcy and Nostrand Avenues.
Current and proposed changes to front of 480 Willoughby Avenue, via LPC proposal.
The proposed front façade work includes the installation of new aluminum-clad wood awning windows at the attic level designed to match the historic configuration, replacement of the entry door, and refinements to the stoop and railings. Renderings show a restored brownstone-style façade with black-trimmed windows and reconstructed decorative detailing intended to align with the building’s historic character. The proposal also introduces a new cellar stair enclosure within the front areaway, replacing an existing covered hatch condition.
Current and proposed changes to rear of 480 Willoughby Avenue, via LPC proposal.
At the rear, plans show a redesigned façade with enlarged window openings, new railings, and updated exterior finishes. The rear elevation would retain the existing building envelope while modernizing the fenestration and adding new access points to outdoor spaces. Drawings also indicate a rooftop bulkhead and railing addition set back from the primary street frontage. Site plans included in the LPC presentation show no horizontal enlargement of the structure.
The closest subways from 480 Willoughby Avenue are the G train at the Myrtle–Willoughby Avenues station and the J, M, and Z trains at the Myrtle Avenue station.
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What a beautiful building, the proposed alterations are thoughtful and appropriate..
A most Brooklyn type of house and very lovely. A friend lives in one of these and the wonderful interior is mostly intact. Bed-Stuy is one of those historic neighborhoods where each street is a different delight.
Great to see such a thoughtful restoration in our neighborhood. the proposed alterations are thoughtful and appropriate maintaining the beauty of the house. Even with the extension in the back, the proportions look exactly right and the building’s historic character is being well-protected.