Dattner Architects

One of the first developments stemming from the East New York Neighborhood Plan, Chestnut Commons provides affordable housing for formerly homeless and low-income households. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a satellite Community College campus, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, and a credit union.

Developed and operated by locally-based organizations with strong community ties, Chestnut Commons strengthens the neighborhood with the inclusion of economic development and educational opportunities, arts programming, and job training services. The building features a satellite campus for CUNY Kingsborough Community College, various shared classrooms and a computer lab, a construction-oriented job training center, fitness studio and gym, café, a food manufacturing incubator, a social services center run by the Cypress Hills Local Development Corp, and a Brooklyn Federal Credit Union branch.

Keeping with the project vision for a healthy, sustainable, and affordable community, the 14-story building is designed to Passive House standards and in compliance with NYC Active Design Guidelines to promote healthy living for residents. The design integrates many healthy living, resiliency, and sustainability features, including rooftop solar panels, rooftop farming for residents, and other recreational spaces. Passive solar shading is provided by deeply recessed windows and projected solar shades at the eastern and southern facades.