Gowanus

With its rich industrial history, innovative art scene, and burgeoning culinary landscape, Gowanus offers a fresh take on New York living.

This neighborhood is located in the western part of Brooklyn, bordered by Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, and Boerum Hill. Once a center for manufacturing, the area is now a thriving hub for artists, young professionals, and families.

Art galleries and innovative restaurants are becoming more prevalent and converted warehouses showcase open-concept lofts and modern apartments. The ongoing clean-up and rehabilitation of the famous Gowanus Canal promises to add green spaces adding a new dimension to the area’s charm.

Here, we’ll explore the Gowanus, Brooklyn real estate market, as well as look at the lifestyle you can enjoy here, to see if Gowanus is the right place for you.

ABOUT GOWANUS

Named after Gouwane – a Canarsie Native American chief – Gowanus began as a Dutch settlement along the marshlands of Gowanus Creek in the 17th century. Brooklyn’s industrial boom in the mid-1800s spurred the completion of the Gowanus Canal in 1869, which transformed the creek – and the rest of the neighborhood – into a vital manufacturing and shipping port. This enabled a variety of industries to flourish along its banks, ranging from coal tar to chemical fertilizers.

The prosperity brought about by the Industrial Revolution came at a significant environmental cost. The canal became increasingly polluted over time and by the mid-20th century, as industries moved away, Gowanus faced a period of decline and neglect. The canal, once a lifeline for the neighborhood, became a symbol of its struggles.

The dawn of the 21st century brought a wave of development and transformation to Gowanus. Artists began to move into the area, attracted by the large industrial spaces perfect for studios. This influx led to the opening of new restaurants, bars, and shops, rapidly transforming Gowanus into a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood.

Despite these changes, Gowanus has managed to retain its unique industrial character. The canal and many old factories still stand, not only as reminders of its past but as prime housing and business opportunities. Ongoing efforts to clean up the canal and redevelop the area are also promising a cleaner and greener future for the neighborhood.

Today, Gowanus is a dynamic mix of old and new, a testament to Brooklyn's ever-evolving landscape.

OVERVIEW OF GOWANUS, BROOKLYN REAL ESTATE

Converted warehouses and lovingly restored townhouses preserve the property’s original details with high ceilings, open floor plans, and high-end finishes. Homes on the market are usually equipped with top-of-the-line and eco-friendly appliances, custom cabinetry, and premium countertops.

Many residential properties reside on quiet, tree-lined streets, offering homeowners a peaceful retreat while remaining close to Brooklyn’s vibrant art scene, restaurants, and nightlife. Excellent public transportation provides easy access to the rest of the city.

Moreover, property values in Brooklyn are strong and stable. Over the past decade, homes in the borough have appreciated in value by 91.08%, making Gowanus a sound investment for the future.

LIVING IN GOWANUS

Before you start your journey in the Gowanus, Brooklyn real estate market, here’s a snapshot of what it’s like to be a resident:

Schools

Gowanus is primarily served by NYC Public School District 15, which also encompasses neighboring areas like Park Slope and Cobble Hill. The district includes several noteworthy public schools, such as P.S. 372 The Children's School, and M.S. 51 William Alexander. Gowanus is also near private and charter schools like The Brooklyn Urban Garden School and Basis Independent Brooklyn.

Getting around

It’s easy to navigate the borough and beyond when you have Gowanus as your starting point:

• Subways. For swift access to Manhattan and other Brooklyn areas, hop on the F and G trains running along Smith Street. The R train on 4th Avenue is another subway option. Living in Gowanus' north end also puts you near major subway hubs like Atlantic Avenue/Barclays Center and Hoyt-Schemerhorn stations.
• Buses. Several bus lines like the B61 and B103 provide reliable transportation within Gowanus and connect you to other parts of Brooklyn.
• Biking or walking. Bike-friendly lanes and routes make cycling a breeze, while sidewalks and a pedestrian-friendly environment encourage getting around on foot.
• Driving. Quick access to the Gowanus Expressway and the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway allows for easy commutes to Staten Island, Queens, and other boroughs.

Attractions

Once an industrial waterway known for its pollution, the canal now stands as a symbol of Gowanus' resilience and transformation. As you stroll along its banks, you can observe the old factories and warehouses – relics of the area's industrial past. You can join the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club on their canoe trips, allowing you to observe the ongoing restoration works and appreciate the neighborhood's industrial charm from a different perspective.

If you're in the mood for a different recreational experience, the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club is a must-visit. With its retro decor, lively atmosphere, and tropical-themed drinks, not only is it the perfect venue for a friendly match of shuffleboard, but it is also a fantastic spot to unwind, socialize, and have fun.

For those with an interest in the macabre and unusual, this intriguing museum delves into the intersections of death, beauty, and the uncanny. It houses a collection of books, artifacts, and curiosities tied to medical history, death rituals, and anatomy.

This reconstructed 1699 Dutch farmhouse is a key historical site and museum in Gowanus, showcasing Brooklyn's colonial past and the area's role in the fight for American independence.

Dining

This renowned bakery is a must-visit for any pastry enthusiast. Famous for their meticulously crafted pies, with seasonal and classic flavors available, Four and Twenty Blackbirds also offers cookies, cakes, breads, and other sweet treats. The bakery has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for grabbing a coffee and enjoying a sweet treat with friends.

This restaurant takes you on a culinary journey to Oaxaca, Mexico. Focusing on regional specialties, Claro offers house-made tortillas, moles (complex sauces), and a wide variety of Oaxacan cheeses. Don't miss their signature tlayudas (large, toasted tortillas) or the flavorful moles served with chicken, duck, or vegetables.

A brewery, bar, and event space all rolled into one, Threes Brewing is a hub of activity in Gowanus. The spacious taproom showcases its own brews, with a constantly rotating selection of IPAs, stouts, lagers, and sours. They also offer a limited food menu with pizzas, snacks, and occasional special food collaborations with local restaurants.

EXPLORE GOWANUS WITH BELLMARC REALTY GROUP!

Ready to invest in Gowanus, Brooklyn real estate? Connect with our team at Bellmarc Realty Group!

Our experienced real estate professionals can guide you through the process and provide you with the best options for townhouses, apartments, and condos for sale in Gowanus to suit your needs.

Get in touch with Bellmarc Realty Group at 718.768.4500 or send us an email here . You can also explore other neighborhoods and homes for sale by checking out our comprehensive neighborhood guides.