New Yorkers Seek Green Spaces Amid Urban Challenges

The Covid-19 pandemic prompted many New Yorkers to reconsider their living situations, with some opting to leave the city for greener pastures. However, Alex Barachant and Lucile Bruneau chose to remain in Brooklyn, driven by a desire for outdoor space. Previously residing in an apartment building in Williamsburg without access to a garden, the couple decided during the pandemic that they wanted a home with a garden. Their search for a townhouse that could accommodate their vision took approximately one year.

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After an extensive search, Barachant and Bruneau discovered a townhouse in Greenpoint at the end of 2021. The property, measuring about 2,000 square feet and split into two outdated apartments, presented an opportunity for renovation. The couple was particularly interested in the backyard, which they believed had potential for transformation into a beautiful garden. Barachant noted the challenge of finding a suitable house with a large garden and southern exposure, indicating that such properties were scarce.

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With the acquisition of their new home, Barachant and Bruneau are now focused on renovating the townhouse to create a sustainable living environment. Their plans include implementing passive house principles, which emphasize energy efficiency and sustainability. This approach aligns with a growing trend among urban dwellers who are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly living spaces.

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While many urban residents are embracing the idea of greener living spaces, some critics argue that the push for more outdoor space can lead to gentrification and displacement of long-time residents in neighborhoods like Greenpoint. The rising demand for properties with gardens may drive up real estate prices, making it more challenging for lower-income families to remain in the area.

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Local real estate experts have noted the increasing interest in properties with outdoor spaces, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They emphasize that this trend reflects a broader shift in urban living preferences, where access to nature is becoming a priority for many homebuyers.

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As Barachant and Bruneau embark on their renovation journey, they join a growing number of New Yorkers seeking to enhance their living environments. The couple's commitment to creating a sustainable home may inspire others in the community to consider similar paths, potentially influencing future housing trends in Brooklyn and beyond.

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“During Covid, we decided that we really wanted a garden and that’s why we started to look for a house.” — Lucile Bruneau, Preschool Teacher

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“There weren’t a ton of houses that fit the bill, with a good, large garden with a southern exposure,” — Dr. Alex Barachant, Research Scientist at Meta

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