"At least one local objects to a rooftop addition proposed for an iconic Brooklyn Heights mid century modern townhouse on Willow Place. An application to the Landmarks Preservation Commission to build a terrace and rooftop addition on top of 48 Willow Place was on the agenda to be discussed at the Tuesday, November 5 meeting of Community Board 2. An LPC hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, November 25."
"The mid century modern townhouse is one of three in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District designed and developed by architects Joseph and Mary Merz. After the couple passed away, their home at No. 48 changed hands twice, most recently in 2024 after a sympathetic alteration by prominent architect Ian Starling intended to update the house for modern living while preserving its spirit."
"The proposed addition will be visible from the street, and alter the carefully composed modern and abstract composition of its facade, application materials show. Although each is slightly different, the facades of all three Merz-designed townhouses reference traditional townhouse elements, and center and vertically stack three openings. At the architects' own residence, the front door has sidelights that echo Greek Revival entrances, and the shapes of the openings and panes recall vertical townhouse windows."
The new owner of 48 Willow Place applied to add a terrace and rooftop addition that would be visible from the street and change the facade's geometry. The house is one of three Merz-designed mid-century modern townhouses in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District. The property changed hands twice and underwent a 2024 sympathetic alteration by architect Ian Starling to modernize while preserving its spirit. The proposed rooftop would alter the carefully composed modern and abstract facade that references traditional townhouse elements and vertically stacks three openings. A prior rooftop proposal at 40 Willow Place was required by the LPC not to be visible.
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