Unbelievable! A group of artists transformed a Park Slope tenement into a stunning Soho-style haven, and their story is an inspiring journey of creativity and determination.
The $100,000 Dream
In the early 1980s, two couples, Elisa Amoroso and Garrick Dolberg, along with Charles Powell and Diana Meckley-Powell, embarked on a unique venture. Inspired by a mayor's program to help artists reclaim abandoned buildings, they set their sights on a five-story tenement at 676 Union Street in Park Slope, Brooklyn. With a shared vision and $100,000, they embarked on a transformative journey.
A Unique Design
The building's exterior hinted at something different. Instead of a central door, it had two entrances, leading to a pair of massive duplexes and a shared art studio. The artists envisioned a Soho loft within a Brooklyn tenement, a bold move that required a simple yet innovative design. They relocated the central staircase, creating an open and airy space with unimpeded windows. Despite their architectural freedom, they respected the building's load-bearing columns, opting for a practical approach.
But here's where it gets controversial... The architect they hired was not on board with their vision, constantly shaking his head. Amoroso recalls arguments, but their determination prevailed. They wanted a spacious home, a far cry from the dark tenements of their past.
A Labor of Love
The couples rolled up their sleeves, hiring workers and pitching in themselves. They gutted the building, installed new hardwood floors, and added skylights for more natural light. The ground floor, once a storefront, was transformed to match the building's residential character. The result? A beautiful, light-filled space with a unique blend of modern and traditional elements.
And this is the part most people miss... The artists kept the roof, backyard, and art gallery communal. They believed in sharing their space, inviting others to create and showcase their work. Even famous buyers like Edward Albee and the Metropolitan Museum of Art were welcomed.
A Home for Art and Family
Over the years, the couples made the space their own. Powell and Meckley-Powell added walls for a new bedroom, and Amoroso and Dolberg accommodated visiting relatives, including Amoroso's mother during her illness. The neighborhood's attractions, like the nearby Southpaw, made it a haven for family and friends.
But now, with all couples in their 70s, it's time for a change. Powell and Meckley-Powell have moved out, and Amoroso and Dolberg dream of Italy. Their initial plan was to sell, but life happened, and they never got around to it.
The Legacy
The artists' tenement transformation is a testament to their creativity and resourcefulness. It's a unique blend of art, architecture, and community, a true Soho-style haven in Park Slope. Their story inspires us to think outside the box and embrace the potential in unexpected places.
What do you think? Is this transformation a work of art or a controversial alteration? Share your thoughts in the comments!
