A detailed architectural rendering has been released for a planned eight-story residential development at 601 Union Street in Brooklyn's rapidly transforming Gowanus neighborhood. The project, being developed by Avdoo, will feature an undetermined number of rental apartments alongside ground-level retail space when completed.
The substantial development will occupy nearly 40,000 square feet of property strategically positioned at the intersection of Union Street, Sackett Street, and 3rd Avenue. While the developer has not yet announced the official architect for the project, the newly revealed rendering provides a comprehensive view of the planned structure's design and architectural features.
The architectural rendering showcases the building from an eastward perspective along 3rd Avenue, highlighting the southwestern corner of the development. The design features a distinctive two-tier approach, with the first six floors clad in traditional red brick and punctuated by a systematic grid of recessed windows without mullions. This creates a clean, contemporary appearance while maintaining the neighborhood's brick architecture character.
Above the sixth floor, the design takes on a different character as the top two stories are set back from the street line and enclosed in modern dark gray paneling. This setback design helps reduce the building's visual impact on the street while providing additional living space. The ground floor will accommodate retail tenants with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows designed to create an inviting street presence and maximize natural light for commercial spaces.
The main residential entrance is strategically positioned within a prominent three-story cubic architectural element at the center of the building's 3rd Avenue facade. This design choice creates a distinctive visual landmark while providing a clear entry point for residents and visitors.
Currently, the development site is occupied by a single-story commercial building, representing a significant transformation for this corner location. The property changed hands in late 2024 when Avdoo purchased it from S.J. Fuel Co. for $29.4 million, indicating strong confidence in the area's development potential.
The location offers convenient public transportation access, with the nearest subway connection being the R train at Union Street station along 4th Avenue. This proximity to mass transit makes the development attractive to potential renters seeking easy access to Manhattan and other Brooklyn neighborhoods.
Demolition of the existing structure is expected to begin in the immediate future, marking the start of the transformation process. However, important details about the project remain undisclosed, including the exact number of residential units, the construction timeline, and any affordable housing components that may be included in the development plans.
