New York City traces its origin to its 1624 founding in Lower Manhattan as a trading post by colonists of the Dutch Republic and was named New Amsterdam in 1626. [1]  Much of lower Manhattan's streetscape is not uniform and grid like as compared to upper Manhattan because of  early settlers carving  both roads for horse and buggy and dykes for ships and cargo. Much remnants of 17th century colonial life  in New York City can be seen from existing g buildings and structures today. Row Houses such as those in NYC's  Historic Greenwich Village were once family estates, comprised of a whole domestic ecosystem with maids quarters, carriage houses, and even secret study rooms. 

As we look towards other inhabited boroughs of the city, Brooklyn's quintessential Brownstone houses have become popular  and coveted residences for all. Structures built in the late 1800s early 1900s may have old bones, but the workmanship and detail of these homes are equivalent to finding hidden treasures. 136 Amity Street in Cobble Hill Brooklyn, is a 25 foot wide sandstone/brownstone facade home, estimated to have been built in 1909.  The home sits on a tree lined street creating both an ambiance and enforcing why the neighborhood has "some of the city's finest collection of nineteenth century townhouses".

A city so rich in culture, a harbor for new design and lives, New York City's pre-war buildings speak to me.  Every street lined with 1900s erected townhouses transports us back in time to an era where craftsmen and artisans were praised, and "developers" were mere builders erecting humble abodes that would last for centuries. Details such as hardwood floors with inlays as seen below are not only old world glamour, but a testament to craftsmen and woodwork as a dieing art form.  To think that each piece of word was measured, paired, and cut to fit perfectly through out 10,000 square feet of this home just whispers "class".

But romance can give way to reality: You will find that even prewar apartments come with their own set of particulars – not all of them coveted features. Remember, these units were built according to the 1920’s standards of high living. That was a time before big kitchens, expansive bathrooms and certain modern amenities were desired and feasible.{2} Still today old bones and homes are attracting younger residents because of the atmosphere of grandiose they posses. Living in a pre-war townhouse removes all the cold and sleek tones of modern day construction and invites warm woodwork, cozy living, and inspiration. 

A splendid marriage of elegance and comfort, this exceptional, five (5) story, multi-unit home has ample room for anything your heart desires. 136 Amity Street is one of nine brownstone row houses with high and wide stoops erected in the early 1850s establishing the quality of the south side of the street. This 25’ wide townhouse has a round-arched inner doorway of the Italianate style, handsome ironwork and outstanding mansard roof. Step inside to discover that many of the historical elements so sought after in this landmark neighborhood have been retained. From the magnificent staircase and marble floor entry, the beautiful parquet floors with inlaid borders and woodwork in geometric forms in contrasting woods, original woodwork and doors, eight (8) marble mantels; one on every floor. This home delights at every turn with 23 rooms including eight (8) bedrooms and five (5) bathrooms.

Each of the five floors has great light, spacious rooms and great ceiling height with the parlor floor spanning over twelve (12) feet high. The parlor floor has an extension in the rear of the home with mahogany woodwork and three exposures overlooking the lovely garden. In addition to the more than 6,300 square feet of living space, there is a full basement with four (4) large brick archways and large treed garden. Amity Street is quite simply one of the most beautiful streets in Cobble Hill and retains the atmosphere of its original private residences. Please make an appointment to see this beautiful home and envision your future in it. 

136 Amity Street is conveniently located just a few blocks from F/G, A/C, 2/3, 4/5, R lines offering a super quick commute to Manhattan. It also has great access to Smith and Court street shops and restaurants. You'll love the neighborhood, close Brooklyn Promenade, Brooklyn Bridge Park and down the street from Cobble Hill Park, Trader Joe’s and Sahadi’s.

The building is currently occupied by five (5) market rate Tenants.

Sources:

[1 ]https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/history/timeline/

[2] http://streeteasy.com/blog/what-is-a-prewar-apartment-building/