The word  “unique.” is most often overused by real estate professionals. If you’ve been in this business long enough, truly unique has long ago passed you by.  But, come upon a conversion of a former church with its quirky corners and arches, and “unique,” with a capital “Q” falls right into play again.  

Apartment 9 at 99 Clinton Street in Brooklyn Heights is one such apartment.  And thus, this three-bedroom residence, quirks and all, fits nicely into our “Apartments We Love” series.

Built in the mid 1850s, this remarkable gothic-revival structure served as a local house of worship before closing its doors in 1974. Six years later, the arched doors open again, this time as a 10-unit residential cooperative.  Fortunately, the stunning exterior stonework of this historic building remains pure to its origins. Walking past the corner property one would never know that this former church was no longer in use as a house of prayer.  A private entrance to this third floor residence offers an additional layer of intrigue.

Situated on the building’s top floor, this dramatic home offers three levels of living space.  Heavenly ceilings soar north of 23 feet, extending to the original sloped beamed ceiling.  Given the vertical expanse of the space, one experiences the daily virtue offered by the magnificent interior views of the church’s original stained glass windows.

Spread across 2550 square feet, the loft-style residence offers three bedrooms (or two with a home office/den), including one mezzanine-level bedroom with an en-suite bath. 

The primary floor of the residence offers a great room (28×34) with a wood burning fireplace. The two smaller bedrooms sit at one end of the floor; the kitchen, dining area and a terrace (12×6) are at the other end.  

To be perfectly frank, this home has so many quirks (in a good way) and nooks, it is almost impossible to describe in typical fashion.  It is just a lot of space, both in square footage and volume. Trust us when we say you can fit just about anything in here and find your private hideout as your family puts dibs on their own space.  It is as inviting as it is inspiring.

Not surprisingly, historic details abound.  Patches of the outside stonework find their way into the residence.  Interior archways act to separate spaces into defined uses.  The pinewood flooring adds warmth.  And of course the ceilings and the original stained glass windows add drama truly unique to this one-of-a-kind home.  Damn, I said it, “One-of-a-kind.”  And yes, this home certainly is just that.

Our best suggestion – look at the pictures.  Not a one will find this home anything less than fascinating.  The visionary will grab it, embrace its spirits and wow his/her friends.  You might just be able to take up a collection as well.

Apt 9 at 99 Clinton Street is available through Richard Murray and Jose Moscoso of Keller Williams NYC at an asking price of $1.995 million, about $782 per square foot.  It was previously on the market for $2.75 million in February 2020 with the Corcoran Group. The co-op accepts 80% financing and allows pets with board approval.  Should you wish to take a look at this devine home, visit Linecity.com.