185 Smith Street, 1

Quick Profile

The neighborhood now known as Cobble Hill was originally settled by Dutch farmers in the mid-1600s. Tucked along the East River, in the heart of Brooklyn, Cobble Hill is known for its welcoming, leafy streets, independent mom-and-pop shops, and 19th century brownstones.

Most of Cobble Hill lies within an historic landmark district, and building heights are restricted to 50 feet, which helps maintain its 19th century atmosphere. Building owners will often split the use of their four- or five-story buildings, occupying several of the top floors and renting out the ground floor as apartments or, conversely, occupying one or more of the lower floors and renting out the top floors. New construction and alterations to existing buildings in the historic district require approval by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, which helps maintain the historic character of the Cobble Hill neighborhood.

Although most housing in Cobble Hill consists of traditional brownstones and brick townhouses,, you will also find churches that have been converted to condos, carriage houses that have become luxury apartments and Victorian school houses that have been converted into lofts.

Court Street and Atlantic Avenue are the main commercial streets in the neighborhood. You will find popular Middle Eastern restaurants on Atlantic Avenue. Court Street is home to casual restaurants, many with outdoor seating, relaxed cafes and hip bars.

Many young professionals and families live in the brownstones, townhouses, and single-family homes that line the leafy streets. Cobble Hill is a great place to live if you work on Wall Street, as you can walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to work.