Dating all the way back to 1856, the Domino Sugar refinery complex was once a sprawling industrial campus alongside Brooklyn?s East River, producing more sugar than anywhere else in the world and 98 percent of all sugar consumed in the United States. Following a series of economic changes that began in the 1950s, economic slowdown in Brooklyn placed a strain on the refinery, forcing it to finally close its doors in 2004. However thanks to SHoP Architects, the waterfront has begun a remarkable transformation using architectural copper.
As part of SHoP?s massive plan for the area, they recently completed work on 325 Kent Avenue, a new residential structure that offers spectacular views from Brooklyn?s East River Waterfront. The new building gives both residents and passersby something to marvel at with its copper façade, both for its beauty and performance. Virtually every unit in this new residence features outdoor space and a view out to the East River and the Manhattan skyline beyond. Photo Credit: SHoP/Andrew Nelson
The building?s design team utilized copper to re-imagine affordable housing. The façade?s rain screen system is comprised of solid copper sheet covering a waterproofed and insulated backup wall construction.
Photo Credit: SHoP/Kate Colabella
The copper panels were installed without a factory produced finish so that, left exposed to natural elements, they will weather and patina over time. This cost-effective strategy also creates a dynamic façade that draws...