Tucked behind a converted factory on a busy Cobble Hill block, a 900-square-foot, two-story building sits out of sight, reached only by passing through the front building and a shared garden. The small “house-behind-the-house” had long served as storage, but the owner wanted to convert it into legal living space that supports the main residence.
Dumbo-based Studio Delson Architecture, led by architect Perla Delson, took on the rework with an eye toward practical use now as a guest house and flexible use later. Delson noted the growing conversation around accessory dwelling units in New York City, while also drawing a line between a standalone unit with a separate entrance and this type of dependent backyard structure that is accessed through the primary building.
The project focused on making the building work as real living space. Studio Delson brought mechanicals up to code, upgraded HVAC with mini-splits and radiant floor heat, replaced windows, and refreshed finishes throughout. On the main floor, a simple kitchen was added, and sliding glass doors spanning the front facade help connect the interior to the garden for entertaining and overnight stays.
For mason contractors, the standout detail is how the renovation treated masonry as a finished surface, not something to hide. Upstairs, Delson used a bold yellow tongue-and-groove wood ceiling to contrast with darker exposed brick in a north-facing room. In the shared courtyard garden, the brick perimeter walls were left untouched to keep their history visible. Elsewhere, small existing openings were filled with glass block, adding light while holding onto an industrial look.
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