Opal & Onyx Condominiums
The Opal and Onyx Condominiums are two six story buildings occupying a full block on Avenue U in the Gravesend neighborhood of Brooklyn. Both of these buildings have been designed to complement each other with an elegantly proportioned facade rhythm along the street.
The Opal Residences are clad in a faceted limestone rainscreen and with units tailored for the elders of a tight-knit and lasting community in south Brooklyn. These units are generously sized for an aging population to maintain proximity to their families and extended community nearby. The Onyx Residences next door feature a dark gray cast concrete cladding that contrasts purposefully with the building next door. Eight of the twelve Onyx residences are duplex units that feature grand double height spaces. Each building has bespoke unit layouts which offer flexibility for a variety of family types/uses.
Designed with Pliskin Architecture.
Exterior facade materials were selected for both their individual textural qualities, but also their ability to patina well over time. Onyx features a precast concrete which has been molded into dynamic vertical fins that feature a gentle u-shape in the middle (above).
Opal’s facade is composed of faceted limestone laminated to a honeycomb backing which provides rigidity while optimizing weight and cost (left).
The interior design palette for the builidngs is geared towards different markets. Opal (above right) has generally higher end finishes and designed for older, retired couples. Onyx (above left) is a moodier and more chic - designed to attract a younger generation that are just starting to have families.
The unit mix of both buildings varies between 2-4 bedrooms with distinct kitchen, living and dining areas. The interior design of the units is inspired by the cementitious material quality of each building’s facade. The Opal interiors feature white oak floors and kitchen millwork while The Onyx interiors have a contrasting walnut and aged bronze palette.
