Property Resources and Avenue Realty open leasing at The Hartby

Brooklyn, NY Property Resources Corp. (PRC) and Avenue Realty Capital (ARC) have launched leasing at The Hartby, the restoration and redevelopment of the historic St. John’s College building located at 788 Willoughby Ave. on the border of Bedford-Stuyvesant and Bushwick. Re-envisioned by architecture firm Woods Bagot, with interiors by Alchemy Studio, a lifestyle-driven interior design firm, The Hartby will offer 142 market-rate apartments and a curated collection of amenities to its future residents who are slated to begin moving in April 2025.

First built in 1870 by celebrated architect Patrick Keely as part of the original St. John’s College (known today as St. John’s University) that relocated to Queens in the 1950s, The Hartby is steeped in the architectural bones of the former historical academic institution. Re-imagined and realized by Woods Bagot, the converted new development building retains the original structure’s romanesque revival design. The Hartby’s façade features an intricate pattern of brickwork around the central redeveloped courtyard, which is enclosed by the wings of the building, and an abundance of windows that bathe its interiors with natural light. A Mansard roof, turrets and towers, and a domed cupola complete the building’s exterior.

“We are proud to introduce The Hartby to New York City’s residential real estate market after years of strategic planning and construction,” said Matthew Linde, principal / CEO of PRC. “By carefully preserving the details of this 150-year-old hallowed structure we are able to provide a sought-after opportunity to live in an adaptive reuse conversion rooted in Brooklyn’s deep history.”

“We’re confident that this newly restored building will resonate with prospective renters who are seeking the perfect balance of contemporary design, one-of-a-kind old-world character and a true sense of community,” said Udi Kore, managing principal of Avenue Realty Capital.

Ranging in size from studios to two-bedroom apartments, the residences at The Hartby has high arched windows, high ceilings and layouts that bring the building’s past into the present. The residences are complete with airy interiors, high-end finishes and clean lines that are juxtaposed with original details including exposed brick walls preserved from the building’s original façade found in select homes. Kitchens are adorned with flat front modern cabinetry, solid stone countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Each bathroom is outfitted with ceramic wall tile, surface mounted cabinets and quartz countertops. The homes also offer views overlooking the building’s picturesque landscaped courtyard, and select apartments will feature private terraces, in-home access to the domed cupola and unique features such as completely restored church windows.

In addition to its charming homes, The Hartby will feature an expansive collection of amenities including a fully equipped fitness center, private party room, business center and library, indoor-outdoor lounge, activated roof deck with barbecue stations, pet spa, and an idyllic landscaped interior courtyard. Residents of The Hartby will be welcomed by a double-height lobby with a part-time doorman and will also have access to covered on-site parking as well as bike storage, storage lockers, and an automated package room.

“We are excited to bring The Hartby to market, a truly distinctive property that blends the rich history of Brooklyn with the needs of today’s contemporary renters,” said Andrew Barrocas, CEO of MNS Real Estate NYC. “The Hartby offers a rare opportunity to experience a piece of the city’s past while enjoying a plethora of thoughtful amenities and bespoke design, making it an exceptional addition to the Brooklyn rental landscape.”

Situated at the intersection of Bushwick and Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, The Hartby is surrounded by classic brownstone buildings along quaint tree-lined streets the neighborhood has historically been known for. The Hartby will place residents on the pulse of the neighborhood’s dynamic and rich culture encompassing a variety of art galleries, cafes, restaurants and parks. The Hartby is also conveniently located near several public transit options including the Myrtle Avenue Subway station serving the J, M and Z lines.