431 7th Avenue
A Vacant Lot Reimagined
The long-vacant lot at 431 7th Avenue (between 14th & 15th Streets) is finally being brought back to life. After decades of inactivity, the Landmarks Preservation Commission recently approved a contemporary yet contextually sensitive design for a six-story, 10-unit apartment building.
The proposal reflects a thoughtful balance: it nods to the architectural language of its neighbors while introducing modern materials and a light, airy façade. The exterior is designed to match a Saint Anne’s Style Townhome
The building will likely be high end condos but no offering plans have been accepted yet. Without an offering plan, the project sales are likely at least 12 months out. (Writing this in October 2025.)
Neighborhood & Context
431 7th Avenue lies in the heart of Park Slope / South Slope, a neighborhood celebrated for its tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and proximity to transit and city amenities.
Transit & Connectivity:
The site is conveniently located near the 15th Street subway stop, which serves the F & G trains.
The address is a few blocks away from the Prospect Avenue subway stop, which serves the R train.
The Prospect Expressway is also quite accessible by car if you find yourself driving frequently.
Historic & Design Sensitivity:
The property sits within the Park Slope Historic District Extension and was subject to LPC review.
Architects designed the massing, cornice lines, window proportions, and material palette to relate to adjacent facades in style, rhythm, and scale.
Lot & Zoning Details:
The planned project will total about 7,339 square feet of residential space.
Ten residential units are proposed, many averaging ~733 sq ft each.
The lot was recently sold to Empire Builders Group NY for about $2.8 million, signaling confidence in the site’s development potential. PincusCo
Architectural Vision & Features
Though full plans and pricing haven’t been publicly released yet, the approved design gives strong hints about what future residents might expect.
Façade & Massing:
Light beige brick with terracotta accents and cast-stone detailing helps the building blend in with the neighboring streetscape.
The windows are punched (set into the façade) in a rhythmic alignment, echoing classic architectural proportions.
Rear balconies with metal railings align with the tradition of fire-escape rhythms on nearby blocks.
Program & Use:
The ground floor is planned to include a gym or fitness-related use via a metal storefront base.
The upper floors hold the 10 residential units; no retail component is specified in the public proposals.
Design Sensitivities:
The bulkhead (roof-top mechanical or penthouse portion) has been recessed to reduce its visibility from the street.
Transparency and glass are moderated: an LPC commissioner explicitly requested non-reflective glass to preserve visual harmony. =
Market & Development Dynamics
The redevelopment of this lot carries significance for both the local real estate market and the evolving skyline of Park Slope.
Capital Investment & Acquisition:
The property was acquired in 2024 by Empire Builders Group NY from EDRE Development / Harel Edery’s team.
The sale price was approximately $2.75 to $2.8 million, or $374 per buildable square foot, based on the projected residential square footage.
Market Position:
With only 10 units, this project aligns with the boutique, smaller-scale development model rather than the mega-condo tower approach.
The scarcity of infill developments on this block may create high interest once units hit the market.
Due to the historic district context and aesthetic constraints, the building may command a premium for high-quality design, finishes, and contextually sensitive architecture.
What’s Next & What to Watch
Permitting & DOB Approvals: While the LPC has approved the design, the building still needs Department of Buildings permit approvals.
Unit Mix & Floorplans: We’ll expect: various 1- and 2-bedroom layouts, possibly with creative split levels or efficient footprints.
Pricing & Sales Launch: Pricing has not yet been disclosed. The market will likely benchmark against comparable new or high-end conversion projects in Park Slope.
Interior Finishes & Amenities: Look for premium finishes, possibly small shared amenities (fitness, lobby space), and well-detailed common areas.
Community & Reception: How the building is received by neighbors will also influence reputational value — design choices already show sensitivity to context.
I’ll continue updating this post with new renderings, pricing, and inside details as they emerge.
Want to Stay in the Loop?
If 431 7th Avenue interests you — or you’re tracking new developments in Park Slope, South Slope, or the broader Brooklyn market — I’d be happy to help you:
Obtain floor plans or pre-launch brochures
Compare with similar boutique new buildings
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