To add to the challenge, the entitled building’s 18 floors had shallow floor to floor heights—just eight feet tall. So brick did the unthinkable: brick removed rentable area! While it may seem counterintuitive, this “addition by subtraction” scheme added tremendous value by creating a double-height communal space with sweeping views. The scheme connects every two residential floors with a communicating stair. Not only did this solution bring light into the deep central space, it also created a generous outdoor balcony on every other floor. Creating the right shared spaces within the central floor plan was also key. Programmed areas that didn’t require natural light, such as gaming rooms, spaces for movies/sporting events and yoga studios were tucked into the center, while communal kitchens, dining areas and grand living rooms opened out toward the double height glass curtain wall.

Another strategy was to design spaces at different scales across the entire floorplate. Instead of four identical kitchens on each floor, brick designed kitchens for different uses based on adjacent programs: a large central kitchen that could accommodate big events, “weeknight” kitchens that are great for family dinners, and a more utilitarian kitchen that worked for the media programs.

To create a sense of welcome and community, 199 Bassett’s downstairs lobby required special attention. Bookended by future café and bar tenant spaces, the central lobby has open seating along the glass line, similar to a hip hotel. A large feature wall reinforces circulation and makes it easy for people to find their way. Starcity’s bike share program “Starfleet” faces the street to create visual interest. The updated lobby design builds in flexibility so Starcity can try out a variety of programs and pop-up vendors to find out what fits their residents’ interests.

A full-service gym is also located on the first floor, along with a mail room and a storage area for 180 bicycles.