Celebrating Brooklyn’s Visionaries: Brownstoner RADD Awards Open for 2018 Nominations

Brooklyn, a borough synonymous with innovation, vibrant communities, and groundbreaking urban development, stands as a testament to the power of visionary individuals. In recognition of the relentless spirit and profound impact of these trailblazers, Brownstoner is proud to announce the official opening of nominations for its annual Brownstoner RADD Awards. This esteemed event is dedicated to honoring those who have made an indelible mark on Brooklyn’s real estate, architecture, design, and development landscape throughout 2018, shaping the borough’s future with their creativity, dedication, and foresight.

The Brownstoner RADD Awards are more than just an accolade; they are a beacon, highlighting excellence and fostering a culture of innovation within Brooklyn’s most dynamic industries. As the borough continues its rapid evolution, these awards serve to spotlight the unsung heroes and celebrated figures alike, whose work contributes significantly to making Brooklyn one of the most exciting urban environments in the world. From the intricate restoration of historic brownstones to the audacious creation of modern architectural marvels, from community-focused development projects to cutting-edge interior design, the RADD Awards encompass the full spectrum of transformative work that defines Brooklyn’s unique character.

Unveiling the RADD Distinction: Real Estate, Architecture, Design, and Development

The acronym “RADD” perfectly encapsulates the core pillars of Brooklyn’s urban dynamism: Real Estate, Architecture, Design, and Development. Each of these sectors is intertwined, collectively shaping the physical and social fabric of the borough. The Brownstoner RADD Awards aim to acknowledge the synergy between these fields, celebrating projects and professionals who demonstrate exceptional prowess across one or more of these crucial areas.

Real Estate: This category recognizes brokers, developers, and investors who navigate the complex Brooklyn market with integrity, insight, and a commitment to sustainable growth. Honorees in real estate are often instrumental in revitalizing neighborhoods, facilitating crucial transactions, and ensuring equitable development that serves the diverse needs of Brooklyn residents.

Architecture: Celebrating architects whose designs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Brooklyn’s streetscapes but also offer innovative solutions to modern urban living. This includes both the sensitive restoration of historical structures and the bold creation of new landmarks that define the borough’s evolving skyline. Architectural excellence in Brooklyn often involves a delicate balance between preserving heritage and embracing contemporary vision.

Design: From interior design that transforms spaces into functional works of art to landscape design that creates verdant urban oases, this category honors designers who infuse beauty and purpose into Brooklyn’s built environment. Good design is crucial for enhancing quality of life, fostering community, and expressing the unique identity of Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods.

Development: This segment recognizes developers who undertake ambitious projects that contribute significantly to Brooklyn’s infrastructure, housing, and economic growth. Successful development in Brooklyn often requires a deep understanding of community needs, a commitment to sustainability, and the ability to execute complex projects that leave a lasting positive impact on the borough.

A Legacy of Excellence: Recalling a Grand Celebration

The Brownstoner RADD Awards have a rich history of bringing together Brooklyn’s most influential figures for an evening of recognition and camaraderie. The previous year’s event, hosted at the iconic One Hanson Place, was a resounding success, drawing an impressive attendance of over 300 industry leaders, community advocates, and passionate Brooklynites. This gala served as a powerful platform to honor a distinguished group of business and community leaders, whose contributions were prominently featured on Brownstoner. The atmosphere was charged with inspiration, celebrating collective achievements that continue to propel Brooklyn forward.

The success of past RADD Awards ceremonies underscores the importance of acknowledging the hard work, creativity, and dedication that goes into shaping Brooklyn. These events foster invaluable networking opportunities, allowing professionals from various sectors to connect, collaborate, and share insights. More importantly, they provide a moment for the entire community to pause and appreciate the immense talent and unwavering commitment that drives Brooklyn’s continued growth and appeal.

Spotlight on Impact: Celebrating Past Honorees

The roster of past Brownstoner RADD Awards honorees reads like a who’s who of Brooklyn’s most influential and impactful personalities. These individuals, spanning diverse fields, represent the pinnacle of achievement in their respective areas, embodying the spirit of innovation and community dedication that the awards seek to celebrate. Their stories serve as powerful testaments to the transformative potential of vision and hard work.

• Architect Elizabeth Roberts: Renowned for her masterful approach to design, Elizabeth Roberts has garnered widespread acclaim for her ability to seamlessly blend historical reverence with modern sensibility. Her work, particularly in the restoration and renovation of Brooklyn’s historic brownstones, has not only preserved the borough’s architectural heritage but has also redefined contemporary urban living. Her projects are characterized by meticulous attention to detail, a profound understanding of space, and an unwavering commitment to timeless elegance.
• ODA New York Founder and Architect Eran Chen: As the visionary behind ODA New York, Eran Chen has consistently pushed the boundaries of architectural design. His firm is celebrated for its distinctive approach to urban development, often creating buildings that challenge conventional norms and foster a deeper connection between residents and their environment. Chen’s innovative designs have significantly contributed to Brooklyn’s evolving skyline, bringing a fresh perspective to residential and mixed-use developments that prioritize light, air, and community interaction.
• “Million Dollar Listing” Star and Nest Seekers Broker Ryan Serhant: A prominent figure in the real estate world, Ryan Serhant brings an unparalleled energy and strategic acumen to the Brooklyn market. Known for his charismatic personality and exceptional sales record, Serhant has played a pivotal role in numerous high-profile transactions across the borough. His influence extends beyond sales, as he often champions Brooklyn’s unique appeal to a global audience, showcasing its diverse opportunities and vibrant lifestyle.
• Flavor Paper Founder Jon Sherman: In the realm of design, Jon Sherman stands out as a true innovator. Through Flavor Paper, he has revolutionized the wallpaper industry, creating bespoke, handcrafted designs that are both visually stunning and environmentally conscious. Sherman’s work injects personality and artistry into interiors, demonstrating how design can transform everyday spaces into extraordinary experiences. His commitment to craftsmanship and unique aesthetic has made a significant impact on Brooklyn’s design community.
• Preserving East New York (PENY) Founder Zulmilena Then: A dedicated community leader and preservationist, Zulmilena Then has been a vocal advocate for protecting the architectural and cultural heritage of East New York. Through PENY, she has spearheaded efforts to raise awareness about the importance of historic preservation in underserved communities, ensuring that the unique character and stories of these neighborhoods are not lost amidst development. Her work highlights the critical role of community engagement in shaping responsible urban growth.
• Cofounder and CEO of L&L MAG MaryAnne Gilmartin: As a leading force in real estate development, MaryAnne Gilmartin has an impressive track record of overseeing transformative projects that have reshaped parts of Brooklyn. Her strategic vision and leadership in large-scale developments have not only brought new housing and commercial spaces to the borough but have also contributed to its economic vitality. Gilmartin’s ability to navigate complex urban projects with an eye towards community benefit makes her a truly impactful figure.

The diverse group of 50 honorees included a broad spectrum of professionals and community champions. These individuals represented the very best of Brooklyn: dedicated community leaders who champion local causes, innovative architects and designers who craft inspiring spaces, and savvy real estate agents and developers who drive thoughtful growth and investment. Their collective impact underscores the collaborative spirit that defines Brooklyn’s progress.

Who Shapes Brooklyn? Categories for Recognition in 2018

The Brownstoner RADD Awards seek to cast a wide net, recognizing excellence across all facets of Brooklyn’s built environment. We invite you to nominate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and impact within the following categories for their contributions throughout 2018:

• Architects: Visionaries who design the structures that define our skyline and enhance our neighborhoods.
• Designers: Creative minds who transform interiors, landscapes, and urban spaces with beauty and functionality.
• Real Estate Agents & Brokers: Experts who facilitate transactions, connect communities, and understand the pulse of Brooklyn’s dynamic market.
• Developers: Trailblazers who conceptualize and execute projects that bring new life, housing, and opportunities to the borough.
• Community Leaders & Advocates: Individuals who tirelessly work to preserve Brooklyn’s heritage, empower its residents, and ensure equitable development.
• Preservationists: Those dedicated to safeguarding Brooklyn’s historic architecture and cultural landmarks for future generations.
• Innovators in Sustainable Development: Professionals leading the charge in eco-friendly building practices and green urban solutions.

Whether it’s a veteran developer with a decades-long track record, a budding architect with a groundbreaking design, a community organizer fighting for equitable housing, or a designer bringing a fresh aesthetic to Brooklyn’s homes and businesses, the RADD Awards aim to celebrate all those who contribute to the borough’s extraordinary landscape. Your nomination ensures that their hard work and dedication receive the public recognition they truly deserve.

Why Your Nomination Matters: Shaping Brooklyn’s Future

Submitting a nomination for the Brownstoner RADD Awards is more than just a formality; it’s an act of community engagement and recognition that plays a vital role in celebrating and perpetuating excellence in Brooklyn. By nominating an individual, you are helping to shine a light on their achievements, providing them with a platform to inspire others, and contributing to a stronger, more vibrant professional community.

The awards offer significant benefits to honorees, including enhanced visibility, industry recognition, and the opportunity to connect with peers and leaders across the real estate, architecture, design, and development sectors. For the broader Brooklyn community, the RADD Awards serve as a valuable resource, identifying and showcasing the best practices and most impactful projects that are shaping the borough’s future.

Think about the individuals who have truly stood out in 2018. Who demonstrated exceptional leadership in a development project? Who created an architectural design that redefined a neighborhood? Who championed a community initiative that brought tangible positive change? Your insights are invaluable in helping us identify these deserving individuals. The nomination process is straightforward and designed to capture the essence of their contributions. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate those who are building a better Brooklyn.

Brooklyn’s Dynamic Landscape: Past, Present, and Future

Brooklyn has long been a crucible of creativity and transformation. From its industrial past to its current status as a global cultural and economic hub, the borough continually reinvents itself while holding fast to its unique identity. The individuals recognized by the Brownstoner RADD Awards are at the forefront of this ongoing evolution. They are the architects of change, the designers of dreams, and the developers of opportunity.

As Brooklyn continues to grow and adapt, the importance of thoughtful, responsible, and innovative development cannot be overstated. The RADD Awards play a critical role in encouraging these values, fostering a community where excellence is not only pursued but also celebrated. By honoring those who make significant positive impacts, we inspire a new generation of professionals to strive for greatness and contribute meaningfully to the borough’s remarkable story.

Join us in this significant endeavor to honor the architects, designers, developers, and real estate professionals who are defining Brooklyn’s future. Your participation ensures that the innovative spirit and dedicated efforts of these remarkable individuals are recognized and celebrated. We eagerly await your nominations for those who have positively shaped Brooklyn in 2018.

Don’t miss the chance to recognize the incredible talent and hard work that enriches our beloved borough. Submit your nominations today for the 2018 Brownstoner RADD Awards and help us celebrate Brooklyn’s finest visionaries!

Learn more and submit your nominations at the official Brownstoner RADD Awards page.