Forum
November 7, 2008
Domino Sugar Plant Project - Williamsburg & Greenpoint
"The Waterfront Preservation Alliance of Greenpoint and Williamsburg formally asked the city's Landmarks Preservation Commission to consider the old sugar factory for landmark status.
A plan for a project combining market-rate and low-income housing at the site is being drafted by the partnership that bought the property shortly after the factory closed in 2004. It consists of the Community Preservation Corporation, a nonprofit organization, and Isaac Katan, a private developer."
What are the updates on the Domino Sugar Plant Project?
October 14, 2008
Mission Accomplished
I have secured the super duper Identity preserving name tags for the party Thursday!
granite countertop repair
We accidentally spilled some vinegar on our granite countertop and now some spots are rough and scratchy. are there any products/methods out there for fixing this problem? do we need a professional?
Did someone say "Newark Nets"?
Economy, uncertain financing delay plans for Brooklyn arena
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3643309
"Ratner is heavily dependent on a pending federal decision that could determine whether tax-exempt bonds can be used to finance the $950 million arena. But even if the bonds become available, the seized-up credit market could make it impossible to attract investors to the arena, financial experts say."
insurance while doing renovation
We are doing a gut renovation of brownstone and not living in house. will probably be more than a year before we do. We have Chubb now but very expensive. Does anyone have recommendations for insurance carriers, agencies or rates to keep house insured during renovation?
Thanks, as always!!
Brownstoenr PARTY!
I'll be there but no one will actually know who I am. This will be great!
Drain Pipe in backyard
My brownstone is almost 100 years old, and my neighbors attached bdlg. is the sister to mine. Bdlgs. were once owned by same owner who put the drain pipe for my bdlg on my neighbors. My neighbor is now asking me to move the drain pipe (the one that leads from the roof to whatever source) because he plans renovations. Sounds costly, & after 100 years why now? Do I have to?
Is it me or is this priced a little high?
http://corcoran.com/property/listing.aspx?Region=NYC&listingid=1383192
EPA Certified Lead Paint Remover
Hi, can anyone recommend me a reliable, honest and affordable EPA certified lead paint remover? I have got lead paint violations and I need to correct them ASAP.
Interior stairs
I am looking into putting a private interior stair in a duplex to connect only the ground and first floor. Ideally I would like to avoid cutting out any beams. Does anyone know what the typical span between beams is in a 18-20' wide brownstone??
October 13, 2008
Claw Foot Tub/Wall Mount Adjustable Hand Shower Faucet FOR SALE
We are also selling this brand new, in the box, never installed Cheviot faucet in a chrome finish. Here is the link: (http://www.cheviotproducts.com/pages/products/details.php?id=414). It can be wall or tub-mounted and is adjustable from 3"-8" centers.
Please email kevinonbianchi@yahoo.com if interested. Thanks.
Vintage Pedestal Sink FOR SALE
We are selling this beautiful pedestal sink. It is in excellent condition, except for a tiny crack on the inside of the bowl--that is not visible, but can be felt. Dimensions are 27"W x 21.75Dx 32H.
Please email kevinonbianchi@yahoo.com for more photos. Thanks.
Just wondering...best use of parlor
so, many traditional brownstones have double doors that open directly into the front part of the parlor, right? The set up I most often see are couches or chairs flanking the fireplace, usually somewhat positioned in front of the doors. My question is...how do folks usually use that portion of the floor most close to the parlor windows? Do you have it set up as another little sitting area? Is your desk there? Just trying to use the space as best as possible and getting puzzled.
Bay Ridge Food Coop
Are you interested in healthy food at affordable prices? Please visit our website at www.foodcoopbayridge.com. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays od every month at the Bay Ridge Library (2nd fl) on 73rd street and Ridge Blvd. All are welcome.
Help with windows
I have a few windows in my brownstone where either the chains have broken and the counterweights fallen to the bottom of their shafts or the windows will only go down to about 8 inches from the sill (luckily the storm windows are fully intact)... Can anyone recommend someone who has experience in these tyoes of repairs?
Bay Ridge Food Coop
Are you interested in healty food choices at affordable prices?
question for the 'house doctors'
I recently posted a question re structural damage in a home w 2 sets of severely slanted stairs. Turns out there was a fire on the top floor, and the home was likely drenched in efforts to control it. For those of you w a structural engineer bent, would you ever consider a house w this history? Or is this a potential money pit of issues (structural, mold, etc)?
Construction at Boerum and Atlantic
(Won't post this again, I swear! Just figured I'd try at beginning of the week).
There's another sponsor sale in 251 Pacific. But I'm wondering a) what's the monstrous construction project right outside the window and b) is it halted or in progress? I haven't seen any work on it recently.
Good Park/South Slope/ Windsor Terrace Dry Cleaner?
Any recommendations?
park slope tour? what was that?
on sunday i was on 4th ave across from the lyceum and there was a group of people in a tour so tagged along for a bit til they got to my block than i had to go back in.. but it seemed fun, does anyone know about these? i guess im more interested in walking tours for neighborhoods other than park slope though? i probably should have someone, but i didnt think of it.
The last hurrah..
Fed Releases Flood of Dollars, Market Rates Fall
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=a4gDtT5Ja69A&refer=home
Oct. 13 (Bloomberg) -- The Federal Reserve led an unprecedented push by central banks to flood the financial system with dollars, backing up government efforts to restore confidence and helping to drive down money-market rates.
and..
Brown Uses Control of British Banks to Boost Lending (Update2)
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601102&sid=a1s9Eh7IXstI&refer=uk
Oct. 13 (Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Gordon Brown will use his government's control over two of the U.K.'s largest banks to cut the price of loans to small businesses and homeowners and curb the pay of directors.
One big mash up! Save the Mutant Asset Bubble..
Picture from Mish..
Appliance shop recommendation
Just thought that I'd mention a place I just got some appliances from. They're based in NJ, so it's up to you to pay the sales tax, but they were a pleasure to deal with.
You call them with the model numbers and they give you a quote or call you back with one.
The guy I spoke to, I think his name was David, called me back the night before the scheduled delivery and called again in the morning. Delivery was basically free, other than the $10 extra they charged for taking a stove and refrigerator up to my 3 floor walk up apartment. Similar to some of the folks who do the same thing in Brooklyn, the delivery guys showed up PC Richards truck.
Overall, they're prices were at least as good if not better than every place I called, and their follow up calls impressed me.
http://www.appliancesbuyphone.com
Extended range wireless router?
Hi all, we just moved and got the triple play internet/cable/phone package. Due to the phone, the cable guy had to put the modem in the basement. We are goig to hook up a wireless router in order to connect our laptops. However, due to the modem (and router) being in the basement, we want to make sure to get a router with a strong enough signal to reach the third floor. We use Vista, for whatever that is worth. Any advice????
Thanks in advance!
October 12, 2008
back wall cement work
I need to patch , replace downspout, and repair and waterproof my back wall.
Any recommendations for good, reasonably priced work?
Free Tile
Enough for small prjects.
White subway, 3x6. 5-10 sq ft.
Ceramic "stone", various terra cotta type colors. 6x6. approx. 20 sq ft.
Waiting for first taker, 344 79th st. (Bay Ridge) in the front yard.
New building at 8th Ave and 10th St
For Sale sign just appeared on the building yesterday - by prospectus only through Betancourt.
Taking Over
Everybody, a proposal:
Go see Danny Hoch's Taking Over at the Public Theater (http://www.publictheater.org/component/option,com_shows/task,view/Itemid,141/id,932) and then we can have a lively debate about gentrification. Contrary to the billing, it is about *Williamsburg* not New York City, but don't let that stop you.
Seriously. It is worth seeing. And then it is worth talking about. Okay?
Super/garbage guy available for you!
Our favorite guy who have been taking care of our tenants and garbage for almost one year during our big renovation is available for you. Now we took over his job after our move-in. He is very pleasant, responsible and trustworthy.
I just want to help him finding new job.
His name is Kemble,
347-221-7628
October 11, 2008
How many gallon Water Heater do I need?
I'll try to make this short. They put a 12-story building up right next to me. Since my chimney no longer vents as well because of the building, they are proposing to install a 30 Gal direct vent gas water heater. I live in a 2 family brownstone. Bottom floor is occupied by 1 person. Top 2 floors occupied by my 4 person family. Total 3 1/2 baths. Is 30 gallon enough? Master Plumber your input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Air-Krete Insulation for a Brownstone
It's that time of year again...
I got a quote from Federal Conservation for roof insulation (blown fiberglass) and to have the walls of my house insulated with Air-Krete.
The Air-Krete quote was around $3500 for 3 floors in front and one floor in back of the house (19 feet wide).
Has anyone had Air-Krete put into your house?
How much of a difference do you think it's made?
I am trying to ascertain what the breakeven point will be on this sort of thing since it's not cheap.
Looking for network consultant
Hey all:
I'm running ethernet cable to every room in my reno but I'm realizing to make a full functioning network is stressing my computer ability. And my electrician isn't up on this stuff.
I need someone to come in and help me wire up the patch bay, get my DSL distributed around the house, make sure I can add other network devices, etc. Any recommendations?
habitable Basement/cellar
Hi, could anyone clarify for me what is meant by habitable basement? We have a basement which is not used apart from the fact that it the meters and fuse box are located there. Would this be regarded as habitable?
There may now also be the issue of whether it is a basement or cellar?
If anyone could help with any of these issues, I would be very grateful, thank you
October 10, 2008
Who does lamp repair?
Anyone know a shop or a person in Brooklyn, Queens, or Manhattan who does lamp repair? I have an old 50s desk lamp and a 50s Nessen floor lamp that are not working. I live in Bushwick. I spent hours driving around Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Jackson Heights one Saturday to no avail. It was very frustrating.
Ornate Radiators for Sale
Add some class to your pad!
3 Lovely Antique Radiators for sale!
The first one, depicted above, has 11 sections and is approximately 27 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 38 inches high.
Another, with a torch pattern (can send pics) is:
7 sections
38.5" tall
8" deep
17.5" wide
The third is:
3 sections
10" 37.5 " tall
7.5" deep
10" wide
All measurements are approximate. All of them work and do not leak. I replaced them only because we didn't need all of the heat that they generated.
Please contact me for more info and pics at ppsw175 at hotmail. You can come see them anytime!
Should I let them use my electricity?
The people who bought the vacant house next door to me want to began work on the house. Their problem is they dont have electricity in the house yet. A woman came over this evening and asked they could use the outlet in my front yard. On and off for the next couple of weekends. They would be willing to give me $50 toward by bill. Is this a risky thing to do? What do you guys think?
NEW YORK NEW YORK
New York New York still the best place in the world.
mirrors cut to size
Looking for a local company to cut mirrors to size for bedroom cupboards?
Or in Manhattan.
Please help.
Thanks
VINTAGE RADIATORS
We have 6 vintage radiators for sale, all different sizes.
Available to see from this weekend in Boerum Hill, or can send photos if interested.
call Victoria 917 860 1272
email . victoriasullivan@mac.com
Old fireplace openings
Dear Brownstoner,
The previous owner removed some plaster walls around old fireplaces to expose the brick. Unfortunately now as winter is arriving I am concerned that we are going to lose all our heat through the fireplace flues? Does anyone have any experience sealing these up besides bricking these over? Much appreciation in advance!
Faye
Bathroom Vanities
Hey there, Anyone have any hot tips on where to find a nice solid wood two sinked bathroom vanity this weekend? I don't know where to start looking.
Definition Bedroom
I was renovating my home and was not able to install windows in two bedrooms because it was too close to the neighboring property. Inspection time came and I was told to define it as a den. When my final inspection came, I already had the home occupied through a TCO, and the inspector gave me a fine because there was a bed in the room. Does a bed in the room define the room as a bedroom?
what is halloween like in brownstone brooklyn?!
i love this time of year and especially halloween. i was just curious what it's like. do lots of kids get dressed up and go trick or treating and stuff around the neighborhood? i never really saw any trick or treaters in manhattan. im already loving some of the halloween decorations up on some peoples stoops. how's christmas? lots of lights? i know some people think it's tacky but i love it. the more lights the better!
rob
considering open floor plan for our place
Has anyone opened up the whole first floor of their place? We have to take down all the walls anyways and Im thinking to keep it open to give that loft effect. Anyone?
Setting Ourselves Up For A Rally
When this market decides to rally you'll never catch it.
new-ish poster here from park slope would like to say hi!
hello! anyway long time lurker here but decided to sign up today cuz i plan to come to the happy hour on the 16th..
i just moved to park slope from harlem in july and honestly, i f'ing love it. i really didnt think i would at all. things aren't as cheap as they were in harlem, but i guess as long as i dont go crazy things will be okay (bitter renter here yes. with my finances, i will never own. at least not in nyc)
anyway, i just wanted to say hi and that i enjoy a lot of your posts and i used to read this blog waaaay before i even thought of moving to brooklyn. i sorta wound up in park slope by luck. it was either harlem again or bushwick for me.
my fav. part of park slope is that everyone leaves free shit on their stoops!!! LOVE IT! i've gotten so much great shit that people leave. i pretty much furnished my entire bedroom with the free stuff people have thrown out. (okay that probably sounds gross, sorry).
nice to meet all of you! if you ever see someone on 5th ave and 1st street walking a pitbull and a beagle, it could be me (or my roommate actually. or our dog walker.. hmm) well see you on the 16th!
-rob
ps.. can anyone suggest any restaurants in the area that aren't really overpriced but still a nice place to take someone? like if youre on a budget... maybe no more than 20 bux per person.
I told you so...
Boy don't you hate when someone says "I told you so". The same person you thought was dumber than you. You was so smart and just dismiss the warring and now you are getting murdered!
The our financial system is broken...
sidewalk repair
Can anyone recommend a good company to repair my sidewalk in front of my house in Park Slope. Looking for reasonable price and competent work.
October 9, 2008
INSTALLING FRENCH DOORS THAT NEED TO BE SHORTENED
I recently renovated my kitchen and in the process of laying down a new subfloor and tile- the floor was raised a few more inches higher than before. I had ordered new doors at standard size and now they need to be shortened to fit the new height (there was a new doorway with transom installed prior to the new floor). My usual handyman is out of the country for a period of time and I am searching for a reliable person with special attention to clean lines and detail to cut and install doors. Does anyone know of someone that they can recommend?
thanks.
Installing Sprinklers
Do any of you have suggestions for a company to install a new sprinkler system?
Many thanks
Low Voltage Wiring
Do you have any recommendations for a person to do this work?
Comments on both good professionals and people to avoid welcome.
Many thanks!