NYCHA | Red Hook Houses Brooklyn
Client
New York City Housing Authority
Architect
Kahn Pederson Fox Associates P.C.
Completion
2019
Critical Capital Repairs and Modernization
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the Red Hook Houses represent one of the largest public housing developments in New York City. As part of the New York City Housing Authority’s Recovery and Resilience Program, this ambitious project focused on future-proofing the development through essential upgrades designed to withstand extreme weather and improve overall energy performance.
The project
The centerpiece of the project is the comprehensive replacement of roofing systems across all 28 residential buildings. Each new roof featured a high-performance, energy-efficient assembly designed to enhance insulation, reduce heat absorption, and extend the life of the structure, delivering long-term benefits for both the environment and NYCHA residents.
The development
Beyond roofing, the project involved significant structural and visual upgrades. The existing parapets were carefully removed and replaced with newly constructed, structurally reinforced curbs. This not only ensured code compliance and safety but also provided a robust foundation for the new assembly above.
In accordance with the guidelines of the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), the project included the replacement of the original brick façades, from the roof level down to the top-floor window line with architecturally appropriate precast stone panels. This approach preserved the historical character of the buildings while delivering modern performance and durability.
To complete the roofing upgrades, new roof railing systems were installed, providing safe rooftop access for maintenance personnel and aligning with New York City Building Code requirements.
The result
The Red Hook Houses roofing project represents a vital investment in the resilience, safety, and sustainability of public housing, balancing historic preservation with forward-looking infrastructure that protects both the buildings and the families who call them home.
