Fire devastates Brooklyn artists’ collaborative located in a former coffee warehouse, resulting in extensive damage.
A significant five-alarm fire engulfed a historic 25,000 square-foot collaborative artists’ studio and exhibition space in Red Hook, Brooklyn, resulting in extensive damage to the structure. The incident began late Wednesday night, with emergency responders receiving the alarm around 11:30 PM. By noon on Thursday, small pockets of fire were still present, indicating the ongoing challenges faced by firefighters, according to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).
The building, located on Van Brunt Street, formerly served as a coffee warehouse and was a hub for artistic collaboration, housing the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists’ Coalition. This organization is dedicated to providing opportunities for artists to showcase their work and engage with the broader public.
Chief of Operations Kevin Woods provided insights during a press conference following the incident, detailing the complexities encountered by firefighting teams. On arrival, crews were confronted with heavy flames on the second, third, and fourth floors, along with fire breaching the roof. Given the structural concerns and the amount of fire present, firefighters were instructed to execute an exterior attack, utilizing high-capacity water streams from both the front and rear of the building. The proximity of the structure to the water allowed the FDNY to deploy Marine 9 to aid in extinguishing the blaze effectively.
Firefighting efforts were robust, with the fire ultimately brought under control by 6 AM on Thursday morning. However, the extensive damage to this four-story commercial building poses significant challenges for the artists and community members who relied on the space. Firefighters reported that two of their team members sustained minor injuries and received treatment at local hospitals.
In a statement released on its website, the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists’ Coalition recognized the devastation the fire inflicted and expressed intentions to work closely with authorities as they assess the damage. The organization emphasized their commitment to keeping their community informed as they learn more about the incident’s impact.
Fire marshals have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of this devastating fire. The vital role this building played in the local arts community highlights the lasting effects of such incidents on cultural spaces. As further details emerge, community members await information regarding the future of the coalition and the repurposing of the space that once nurtured artistic expression.
The fire underscores the inherent risks associated with older structures and resonates with broader discussions about protecting and sustaining cultural institutions in urban settings.
