Highlights
Collaborators:
-Manufacturer for 3D component: Madco3D L.L.C
-General Contractor: In House Group, Inc
-Robot Manufacturer: Twente Additive Manufacturing
-Material Supplier: Sika USA
Team:
Adam Kushner
Dan Bernard
Brian Marshall
Jason Prisco
Noah Callentine
Coleman Ramer
A “Mother Tree” in Brooklyn’s Urban Landscape
In the heart of the recently rezoned Gowanus neighborhood in Brooklyn stands a new residential building that draws inspiration from an unexpected source: forestry. KUSHNER Studios has conceived this 14-story structure as a “Mother Tree,” a concept from contemporary forestry that symbolizes nurturing and connectivity. This metaphor aptly describes the building’s role in fostering community through its innovative design and features.
Community-Centric Design
Sited prominently on a corner, the building is more than just a collection of apartments; it’s a hub for community growth. The developers have included backyard gardens, creating green spaces that encourage interaction among residents. Additionally, the building houses neighborhood-based retail tenants, further integrating it into the local community fabric. This approach reflects a broader trend in urban design that emphasizes communal spaces and local engagement.
Caribbean Roots and 3D Printing Innovation
One of the most striking features of this project is its homage to the Caribbean heritage of its owners and developers. Palm trees, a common sight in the Caribbean, are reimagined here through the use of 3D printing technology. The ground floor boasts two-story high commercial entryways and storefronts that mimic the leaf patterns found at the base of palm trees. This isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it represents the first use of 3D printed parts integrated into a skyscraper in the United States, making it a pioneering effort in the field of architecture.
The mock-up for these 3D printed components is impressive in its own right. It includes a half-scale model of a gateway, 5 feet wide by 18.5 feet high, composed of seven different pieces. These pieces were printed by a robotic 7-axis mobile mounted printer at a facility in Rochester, New Hampshire, before being transported to Brooklyn. The double-walled structure allows for expandable insulation and weighs around 12,000 pounds, showcasing the potential of 3D printing in modern construction.
A Diverse Array of Living Spaces
The building comprises 81 residential units, offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Importantly, 25% of these units are designated as mixed-income housing, reflecting a commitment to affordability and diversity. This blend of unit types ensures that a wide range of residents can call this building home, from single professionals to families.
Residents will also enjoy a variety of amenities designed to enhance their living experience. The building includes approximately 4,000 square feet of retail space, a 10-car garage, a common rear yard garden, a multi-purpose recreation space, and individual tenant storage lockers in the cellar. These features are intended to provide convenience and foster a sense of community among tenants.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of the 213 Third Avenue project is a testament to the collaborative effort of several key players in the construction and design industries. Led by Adam Kushner, who heads KUSHNER Studios, the team includes Madco3D L.L.C for 3D component manufacturing, In House Group, Inc as the general contractor, Twente Additive Manufacturing for the robotic systems, and Sika USA for material supply. Sika USA developed a unique material that allows for quick setting and high structural integrity, crucial for the project’s ambitious design.
In summary, 213 Third Avenue is a groundbreaking project that combines community-focused design, innovative use of 3D printing, and a commitment to affordability. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when architecture, technology, and a sense of community come together.
