SO–IL exploits zoning loopholes for innovative Brooklyn housing

Solid Objectives Idenburg Liu (SO–IL) has completed two Brooklyn housing projects, 9 Chapel and 144 Vanderbilt, that reinterpret New York's zoning codes to prioritize light, air, and community. The firm, led by Jing Liu and Florian Idenburg, treats building regulations as a source of creative possibility rather than constraint. 9 Chapel (2024) is a 53,820-square-foot triangular building clad in perforated metal screens, with exterior stairs, balconies, and window gardens that encourage neighborly interaction. 144 Vanderbilt (2025) is an 89,900-square-foot pink precast concrete structure at the corner of Vanderbilt and Myrtle Avenues in Fort Greene, with stepped volumes, oversized windows, and a central courtyard. Both were developed by Tankhouse, led by Sam Alison-Mayne and Sebastian Mendez. SO–IL is now applying these principles at a larger scale with Anagram Gowanus, a 203,000-square-foot tower with 158 rental units, 20-30% affordable, set to complete in less than a year.