Public School 9 and Public School 9 Annex, Historic school building in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, United States
Public School 9 and its annex are two connected school buildings on Sterling Place featuring Romanesque Revival architecture with brick walls and gabled roofs. The complex sits across two locations and shows detailed stonework typical of educational buildings from the 1800s.
The original building opened in 1868, designed by Samuel B. Leonard, and has shaped the neighborhood for more than 150 years. The annex was added in 1895 as the growing population in Prospect Heights required more classroom space.
These structures represent how schools in late 19th-century Brooklyn served as significant neighborhood anchors with distinctive architectural presence. The ornamental brick and stone details reflect the period's belief that educational buildings should look impressive and permanent.
Today both buildings function as a residential complex with 22 cooperative apartments that preserve the original structures. The high ceilings and large windows from the old school spaces make the apartments feel spacious and filled with natural light.
The school complex was converted into housing rather than demolished, an uncommon choice that kept the buildings active in the community. This adaptive reuse allowed the historic architecture to continue serving residents while preserving its character.
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