November 22, 2023
What Up Family?
Welcome to The Edit with Aaron Seawood, a lifestyle letter serving a weekly dose of real estate, culture, and wisdom—all in three minutes or less. Let’s dive in.
Real Estate Remix
I’m constantly in awe of New York City’s homes being reimagined and restructured for the present day. The near-zero carbon renovation at 329 Vanderbilt Avenue is a jaw-dropping example. Perched on the border between Clinton Hill and Fort Greene, the 1870s carriage house was completely repurposed for the 21st century by architecture firm Schiller Projects. Now, it’s on the market for $7.5M and is one of the dopest townhomes I’ve laid eyes on in a while. Words won’t do it justice, so I highly recommend scrolling through the photos. To paint a picture, the residence features a stunning indoor atrium planted with mature trees, mass timber ceilings, recycled wood flooring, and a three-story central staircase constructed from Douglas Fir. The primary suite and roof deck were recent additions; the 350-square-foot roof deck features views of the stained glass and oxidized copper roof of the city’s only Gothic Revival-style cathedral. I mean, what else can I say? EPIC.
NYC Insider: What’s Happening This Week
Happy almost Thanksgiving! I love this holiday as it reminds everyone to take a step back, be grounded in gratitude, and spend time with family and friends (and, of course, the food…don’t get me started!). If you want to skip the craziness of the Macy’s Parade tomorrow, one thing my kids used to love doing was seeing the floats being inflated on Wednesday eve (tonight!) near the Museum of Natural History. It’s a family-friendly activity that true New Yorkers can appreciate—you’re a part of the holiday magic without the craziness of the crowds. Catch the details here.
Weekly Gem 💎
The Importance of Connection
Last week, I was in my hometown, San Diego for the annual Compass Retreat, a full three days of panels, workshops, and activities. As expected, the programming was fantastic, and I learned a lot of new tips and tricks for navigating today’s real estate market. More than anything, I basked in the glow of meeting my colleagues face-to-face and forming and strengthening relationships. Today’s gem is about reminding ourselves of the importance of real connection—whether you’re at the dinner table with your family or at the office with your colleagues, in person, quality time without distraction cannot be beat. It just can’t. PJs be damned, make an effort to get out of the house and see your people.
A Rare Collector’s Landmark: 18 Prospect Park West
Listing courtesy of my Compass colleagues, Amy Mendizabal, Leslie Wolfowitz, and Leonard Steinberg
Rarely—if ever—does a corner-located Neo-Italian Renaissance mansion-scaled limestone townhome with three open exposures come to market. 18 Prospect Park West is a 7-bed, 4 and 2-half bath townhome positioned directly on Prospect Park and listed for $13.99M. A collector-grade landmark, the home features a museum-quality level of historic millwork and detailing. Check it out:
- Built in 1898 by Montrose Morris, this townhouse is a massive 9,000+ square feet, five stories tall, and built on a corner lot (the dream!!).
- It recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation but is filled with original, STUNNING wood details, coffered ceilings, stained glass windows, pocket doors, wood paneling, and an imposing oak center staircase.
- A separate gated side entrance and ultra-charming courtyard garden.
- Who wants a tour? (like seriously, this one is special)
Before you go…
🍕: A quirky and cute food-themed gift guide, courtesy of The New Yorker, for your foodie friends and fam.
🎵: One of my all-time faves, André 3000 (of OutKast fame), just dropped New Blue Sun, an album with only music—No Bars (I know!). He’s playing a digital wind instrument, and the music is tuned to 432hz, gently inviting you to be still and introspective. I rock with it heavy, and the song titles alone make it worth a listen. Can you get with it?
🎤: Hold up! YouTube is testing a new feature that lets you use AI to mimic celebrity singers. Not sure how I feel about this…actually, I do. No bueño. 🤨However, on the surface, it appears they’re approaching it ‘responsibly’ with test artists in collaboration.
🍴: Battle of the kitchen utensils—how well stocked is your kitchen in comparison to other Americans?
🐶: The T Swift fandom continues…Kelce is allegedly America’s hottest-trending dog name in 2023. Really people? My dog should thank me for naming him Knox!
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Looking to Buy, Sell, or Rent? Let’s talk.
Like I ask GOD every day, who can we help next?