NYCHA | Gowanus Houses Brooklyn
Client
New York City Housing Authority
Architect
RKTB Architects
with Associate Designer MAP
Completion
2029
The development
Located in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood, Gowanus Houses is a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) public housing community built in 1949. Spanning more than 12.5 acres across two city blocks, the development comprises 16 residential buildings with 1,139 apartments and is home to over 2,600 residents. It remains an essential source of affordable housing, supporting long-term community stability in Brooklyn.
design-build: A collaborative model
The Gowanus Houses modernization is being delivered through a Design-Build (DB) approach, integrating design and construction expertise from the outset.
As part of the Mega/TECHNICO Joint Venture, TECHNICO Construction Services, Inc. is working alongside RKTB and the broader design team in close partnership with NYCHA to deliver a cost-effective, timely, and high-quality renovation.
This coordinated approach streamlines decision-making, supports efficient scheduling, and enables the team to respond effectively to project challenges. Ongoing resident feedback informs the process, keeping tenant needs and priorities central to planning and delivery.
Scope of Work and Construction Strategy
The project includes the safe removal of hazardous materials, including lead-based paint, asbestos, and mold, followed by comprehensive kitchen and bathroom renovations.
Kitchen improvements include energy-efficient appliances, ENERGY STAR refrigerators, combination microwave/range hoods, low-flow faucets, sustainable finish materials, and modern LED lighting. Bathroom upgrades include low-flow plumbing fixtures, new vanities, medicine cabinets, LED vanity lighting, and ceramic tile finishes. Residents may also have the opportunity to choose from a selection of finish colors, adding a personal touch to their renovated homes.
Beyond individual apartments, the scope includes upgrades to heating, ventilation, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure. Elevators throughout the development are being replaced to improve accessibility and reliability, while pest and waste management systems are being modernized to support healthier living conditions.
The scale of the renovation requires short-term resident relocations, with temporary hospitality accommodations provided to ease the transition. Carefully coordinated construction phases and scheduling will minimize disruption to residents’ daily lives while supporting efficient project delivery.
The Outcome: A Long-Term Investment in Brooklyn’s Future
Located in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood, Gowanus Houses is a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) public housing community built in 1949. Spanning more than 12.5 acres across two city blocks, the development comprises 16 residential buildings with 1,139 apartments and is home to over 2,600 residents. It remains an essential source of affordable housing, supporting long-term community stability in Brooklyn.
This long-term investment will improve residents’ quality of life while supporting NYCHA’s mission to preserve and strengthen public housing across New York City.
