The work of the BHA’s Preservation Committee almost always proceeds without any fanfare, despite the fact that it is one of our hardest working committees, and one whose actions have a real influence in maintaining the character and integrity of the Brooklyn Heights Historic District. The BHA is fortunate to have working architects and architectural historians volunteering their time to review and comment upon all Brooklyn Heights proposed projects that require a public hearing.

73 Pineapple Street is a good example. Currently, this is a vacant lot in the block of Pineapple Street just west of Henry. In the not too distant future it will be the site of a new five-story apartment building. The building’s exterior design has been reviewed favorably by the BHA’s committee and will soon be heard by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The owner (who also purchased the adjacent houses at 71 and 75 Pineapple) intends to make this a rental building. If approved, the new building’s contextual design, although contemporary, should fit nicely in the row.

20 Henry Street (the former candy factory and artists' housing before its sale in 2004) is once again on our minds with the start of restoration work on the building. It will be gutted and converted to condominiums. As reported in previous newsletters, the BHA fought against any construction in the garden, but the Landmarks Commission approved plans for a new four- story building in that open space. It will follow the street wall along Henry and Poplar Streets. There is to be a forty-foot wide courtyard between the old and new structures, visible from Henry Street.

Save the Date: BHA Landmarks House & Garden Tour is set for Saturday, May 10, 2008, 1-5 PM. As always, BHA members are entitled to a ticket discount.