The Brothel-Turned-Condo and the Gutted Brownstone

This week we look at a 2-bedroom in a converted brothel and a brownstone that feels like a brand new apartment — both in the heart of Clinton Hill.

320 Washington Avenue #1D between DeKalb and Lafayette avenues

Boy, if these walls could talk. From elderly women who have lost some of their marbles to younger women working the oldest profession, this building would have some interesting anecdotes to share, no doubt. 

During the real estate boom years, developers turned all types of structures into luxury condos. This former brothel is no exception. 

The cube-shaped building at 320 Washington Avenue is recessed from the street and sits on a massive lot. It was built in 1851 as the "Brooklyn Society for the Relief of Respectable Aged Indigent Females" a sort-of nursing home/asylum that lasted over 100 years. Later, it was used in the 1980s as the "Bull Shippers Plaza Motor Inn," an inn where one could rent "Ladies by the hour," according to the New York Times. Today, it's a condo community that opened in 2001.

The building's lot sits next to a city playground, which should prevent new developments from blocking the building's southern sun.

The unit itself is airy, with high ceilings and large rooms. Each room is boxed off in the layout, which creates privacy — though it's contrary to the open, flowing layouts of newer condos.

The unit includes hardwood floors, a washer/dryer hookup and stainless steel appliances. It also comes with a private patio next to the community courtyard.

Pros

*Large master bedroom with large closets.

*Two full baths, high ceilings.

Cons

*This first-floor apartment puts your bedroom windows immediately next to the common courtyard.

*Galley kitchen is narrow and bit claustrophobic.

$699,000
$424 monthly cc

For Showings:

Nichole Thompson-Adams

Corcoran Group

718-210-4046

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69 Saint James Place Garden Apartment between Greene Avenue and Clifton Place

Some Brooklyn renters only want to live in brownstones — the grand proportions and prewar quality are their draws.

So, this Fort Greene rental may surprise some apartment shoppers. It looks like a brownstone from the outside, but inside it is a gut-renovated unit with the simplicity and conveniences of a new apartment.

To be sure, this unit would be perfect for a single person who plans to entertain during the summer. The large private backyard is accessed from the main living area and kitchen, which are the same room.

A shopper who has previously looked at 1 bedrooms at similar prices in Manhattan will be thrilled by what they get here: a large bedroom, washer and dryer and a bathroom with a deep soaking tub.

None of the rooms or dimensions feel miniature and the owner is offering extra storage space in the basement.

Pros

*New appliances including a dishwasher and washer/dryer

*Large, bright rooms

Cons

*Some will be disappointed that the kitchen and main living area are the same room, but the space is large enough to fit a dining table and couch/TV set-up.

*Only one closet 

$2,300 monthly + 15% broker fee

For Showings:

Juliet Gittens

Corcoran Group

718-210-4021