Construction is well underway on Anagram Gowanus, a new 20-story residential building located at 450 Union Street in Brooklyn's Gowanus neighborhood. This significant development will bring 158 new rental apartments and substantial retail space to the area, marking a notable addition to the borough's skyline.
Key Takeaways
- Anagram Gowanus is a 20-story residential tower at 450 Union Street.
- It will feature 158 rental apartments and 22,000 square feet of retail space.
- A portion of the apartments will be designated as affordable housing.
- The building is expected to top out by spring and complete by May 2027.
- Amenities include a fitness center, co-working spaces, and multiple rooftop terraces.
Progress on the Gowanus Waterfront
The reinforced concrete superstructure of Anagram Gowanus has been steadily ascending since construction began. Crews have now formed the podium levels, and the main tower is visibly taking shape. Its distinctive multifaceted massing is becoming apparent as workers quickly enclose floor plates with metal frame studs and insulation boards.
This rapid progress indicates that the building is on track to reach its full height sometime before next spring. The development is a collaboration between Global Holdings, Tankhouse, and McArthur Holdings, with SO-IL as the design architect and Magnusson Architecture & Planning serving as the architect of record.
Project at a Glance
- Address: 450 Union Street, Gowanus, Brooklyn
- Height: 20 stories
- Total Area: 203,000 square feet
- Residential Units: 158 rental apartments
- Retail Space: 22,000 square feet
- Parking: 13,000 square feet above-grade
Design and Residential Offerings
The building's design features a cascading massing and a tan brick façade with a stacked bond pattern. A notable architectural element is a through-building cutout on the third through seventh floors, along the canal-facing elevation. This cutout includes terraces that bridge the divide, providing shaded outdoor space for select units.
Renderings reveal a jagged canopy over a second-floor terrace, which will be adorned with hanging vegetation. Additional terraces are planned atop the building's many setbacks, offering residents diverse outdoor access.
"Twenty-five percent of the rental units will come with private outdoor space, and nearly every apartment will have a Juliet balcony and dual-corner exposure," a project representative stated.
The apartments will range from studio to three-bedroom layouts, catering to a variety of residents. A significant portion of the residential inventory will be reserved for affordable housing, addressing a critical need in the city.
About Global Holdings
This project marks Global Holdings' fifth Anagram-branded residential development in New York City. Previous Anagram locations include NoMad, Columbus Circle, Gramercy, and Turtle Bay. The company contributed a $33 million equity investment to the Gowanus project, a deal facilitated by JLL Capital Markets.
Amenities and Community Integration
Anagram Gowanus is designed to offer a comprehensive living experience with a wide array of amenities. Residents will have access to a modern fitness center, co-working spaces for remote work, and a dedicated children's playroom. Landscaped outdoor areas and multiple rooftop terraces will provide opportunities for relaxation and socializing.
Beyond residential offerings, the development includes approximately 22,000 square feet of commercial and retail space on the ground floor. This space is planned to include areas designated for community use and art studios, fostering local engagement and creativity.
The property will also feature a 5,700-square-foot waterfront esplanade along the Gowanus Canal. This public space is expected to enhance the neighborhood's connectivity to its waterfront, offering recreational opportunities for residents and the broader community.
Connectivity and Local Access
The location at the intersection of Union and Bond Streets provides convenient access to public transportation. Residents will find the F and G subway trains at the Carroll Street station to the west, and the R train at the Union Street station a few blocks to the east. This connectivity makes the development appealing for commuters.
The anticipated completion date for Anagram Gowanus is slated for May 2027. This project is poised to become a significant landmark in the evolving Gowanus neighborhood, blending modern living with community-focused design and public amenities.




