DUMBO’s Tallest Building Wins Award for Design from Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce

By Anuradha Kher, Online News EditorNew York–The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, through its 2008 Building Brooklyn Awards, honored 17 recently completed construction and renovation projects they believe enrich Brooklyn’s neighborhoods and economy. J Condominium, a 33-story mixed-use development located on 100 Jay St. and designed by Gruzen Samton Architects was recognized for its design. J Condominium is currently the tallest building in the Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (DUMBO) neighborhood, which is located at the foot of the Manhattan Bridge. Developed by Hudson Companies Inc., the 267-unit J Condominium also features five retail spaces and two parking garages.The building is located adjacent to the Manhattan Bridge and next to the Jay St. subway line, which means that the noise levels in the area are high and the vibrations from the subway can be felt in the building. “We wanted to maximize the bridge as an asset by making use of the views,” Susan Wright, AIA, partner in Gruzen Samton Architects, tells MHN. “For the noise, we used triple glazed STC-65 rating windows which are the highest in sound absorption.”The building’s plan provides corner window views for apartments on the east and west facades, maximizing the exterior exposure from all apartments. The western façade features a sail-like window wall, lending the entire building a distinctive look.“We are pleased that J Condominium has been recognized for its contribution to the overall enrichment of the surrounding community,” says Wright, AIA, partner in Gruzen Samton Architects.“This year’s 17 Building Brooklyn Awards winners are distinctively Brooklyn,” said Cheryl Gladstone, director of real estate and development at the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “These 17 projects may vary in function, location and style, but each project has a socially responsible component to it. This sense of responsibility to Brooklyn’s history, community and culture is something that defines Brooklyn’s best architecture.”Amenities include tenant storage in the cellar, bicycle storage area, landscaped sun terrace, roof deck on the 32nd floor, gym with double-height space and clerestory windows facing west, Yoga room, media room and children’s play room.