About 117 Grattan St #120
117 Grattan Street is a historic four-story loft building in the East Williamsburg/Bushwick area of Brooklyn. Originally part of the Venus Knitting Mills industrial complex (built 1931), it’s prized by artists and creative firms for its vintage character and high ceilings (www.roeblinggroup.com ) (www.pincusco.com ). Today the building is owned by Bushburg Properties (acquired in 2022) and marketed as a hub of boutique studios and retail spaces (www.pincusco.com ) (www.roeblinggroup.com ). With its “old-world charm and adapted industrial spaces,” 117 Grattan Street provides an inspiring backdrop for creative work (www.roeblinggroup.com ). High ceilings and large factory windows flood the loft-style units with natural light, while polished concrete or wide-plank wood floors give each suite a distinctive artisanal feel (www.roeblinggroup.com ) (www.exrny.com ).
The venue is notable less for traditional entertainment than for its role in Brooklyn’s arts scene. For years it housed a vibrant community of painters, sculptors, and small tech shops. In 2015 the building contained dozens of studios and was even described as a “four-story, 125,000-square-foot” creative incubator where rising rents began pushing out long-time artists (therealdeal.com ). Over time it has steadily shifted toward mixed creative-commercial use – a change that management has promoted as attracting startups and retrading galleries. Despite this evolution, many of the original artistic tenants remain, giving the space a local reputation as a legacy art studio building (therealdeal.com ) (www.roeblinggroup.com ). This blend of historic industrial architecture and modern re-use is what makes 117 Grattan Street unique in the Bushwick/Williamsburg neighborhood (www.roeblinggroup.com ) (www.roeblinggroup.com ).
Events and Programming
117 Grattan Street #120 itself doesn’t operate as a ticketed theater or concert hall. Instead, the building hosts mainly visual arts programming and occasional studio events. The ground floor and common areas are sometimes used for art exhibits, pop-up craft markets, or creative workshops. One permanent tenant, GEORGE, is an artist-run gallery located at #222; it mounts rotating exhibitions and is open to the public on weekends (www.george-gallery.com ). Perhaps the biggest annual event here is Bushwick Open Studios – a free, community art festival held each fall in September or October. During Open Studios, many individual studios at 117 Grattan (for example, unit #205 and #308) throw open their doors to visitors on Saturday and Sunday (awomensthing.org ) (awomensthing.org ). In recent years well over 100 artists and organizations have participated in the Bushwick-wide program (awomensthing.org ), meaning that guests can actually tour dozens of artist workshops and pop-up galleries on 117 Grattan during the BOS weekend.
Aside from Open Studios, smaller events like artist meetups or studio receptions may occur sporadically. There is no fixed schedule of performances or acts – wearable art shows or multimedia performances might appear occasionally in a flex space if organizers book it. In general, most visits to 117 Grattan Street are self-guided studio visits or private tours by appointment. Since it’s primarily a working loft building, you won’t typically find regular concerts or plays here as you would at a traditional venue. Visitors interested in seeing work should check community art calendars or contact host galleries directly. Casual drop-in hours are usually only on Open Studios weekends or arranged gallery openings (for example, GEORGE Gallery often holds Sunday afternoon openings (www.george-gallery.com )).
Because 117 Grattan is not a nightclub or theater, there is no single “house style” of event. Concert ticketing, weekly comedy shows, or sporting events do not typically happen here. Instead, the programming revolves around the creative community: gallery receptions, art openings, studio tours, and the occasional screening or presentation by resident artists. These are most often free or benefit-style events, with any entry “ticket” being simply an RSVP or walk-in signup. In other words, most “events” at 117 Grattan Street are open to the public without formal admission, reflecting its character as a community art space rather than a commercial entertainment venue.
Tickets and Booking
Because 117 Grattan Street isn’t a conventional performance hall, there usually aren’t traditional “box office” tickets to buy in advance. Most events here are either free, donation-based, or happen by private appointment. For example, Bushwick Open Studios enables walk-in visits without tickets (there are no admission fees for BOS events) (awomensthing.org ). Similarly, gallery openings and studio tours often have free admission – sometimes requiring only pre-registration online or an email RSVP through the organizer. If a specific event requires entry (for example, a special fundraising exhibition), any ticketing or RSVP instructions would typically be published on arts calendars or communicated through organizers at least a few weeks in advance.
There is no on-site box office at 117 Grattan. If you want to visit or attend something in the building, the best strategy is to follow announcements on local arts networks and social media. Since many events here are open studios or gallery shows, you often can just show up during scheduled hours (especially on weekends) without purchasing anything. In rare cases where a special event is ticketed (such as a benefit or film screening in a studio space), details will appear on the hosts’ websites or mailing lists. In practice, though, visitors to 117 Grattan Street usually do not need to buy tickets – participation is on a first-come basis.
If you do hear of a specific event (like an exhibit opening) at 117 Grattan, check if advance reservations are required. Some organizers may have a small waiting list. Otherwise, the typical approach is to arrive early when doors open and sign in if needed. In short, plan to attend occasionally by simply being present during open hours. You’ll find that most shows here are informal: walk in, chat with the artists or staff, and explore on your own. Because there’s no “presales” or centralized box office system, popular studio tours (especially during Open Studios) can fill up – so getting there near the start time (often midday) is wise to avoid crowds.
Seating and Layout
The interior of 117 Grattan Street is an open, industrial loft layout with no fixed seating. Think of it as a flexible studio building rather than a theater with rows of chairs. There are granite floors or polished concrete on the ground level and wide-plank hardwood upstairs, and each unit varies. Some larger studios have open floor space where temporary folding chairs or couches might be brought in for a talk or performance, but generally visitors stand or move around. There is no permanent audience seating unless the event organizer sets it up (for example, an art talk might have a few folding chairs arranged by the doorway).
The floors are numbered with three-digit unit numbers. For example, “#205” and “#308” designate studios on the second and third floors (awomensthing.org ) (awomensthing.org ). It’s reasonable to assume "#120" would be on the first floor (perhaps a large retail-type space), though public sources don’t list a current tenant for #120 specifically. Regardless, the building is largely column-free inside, with large windows on two sides facing north and south. This means sightlines are wide and unobstructed. If a host brings in seating, the best vantage is usually centered facing the front of a gallery wall or projection screen. For gallery exhibitions, natural light often highlights works on one wall – bringing a vantage point near that wall gives a good view of the display.
Acoustics are “factory style”: high ceilings and hard surfaces, so voices carry. If a musical performance or talk is arranged, you’ll want to be fairly close to the sound source, as there’s no sound system in building except what the artist brings. Some visitors prefer standing near walls to hear better. There are no balconies or mezzanines open to public viewing, just open loft spaces divided by temporary partitions. In general, the entire floor where the event is held is open to exploration. Beware that because these are working studios, some areas may have tools or equipment that you should navigate around carefully. There are no obvious “bad seats” in a static sense, but being at eye level with a speaker or artwork is ideal since there is no raked seating to improve sightlines. Ultimately, this is a very informal venue layout that adapts to each event, so plan to move around for the best view.
Getting There and Parking
117 Grattan Street is located in central Bushwick (Brooklyn community “Hi-Wire”), just a couple of blocks south of Flushing Avenue and between Manhattan Avenue and Morgan Avenue. It’s very easy to reach by public transit. The nearest subway stop is Morgan Avenue on the L train, only two blocks away (www.roeblinggroup.com ) (www.exrny.com ). From Morgan L, walk west on Flushing Avenue one block and then turn south on Grattan; it’s a short 3–5 minute walk. The L train runs 24/7, so late-night events are still served by the subway. Other stations nearby are Myrtle–Broadway (J/M/Z trains) about 0.7 miles east, or Grand Street (L train) 1 mile west, but Morgan L is by far the closest.
Several Brooklyn bus lines also serve the area. The B60 and B57 stop at Morgan Ave/Harrison Place (just east of Grattan) and the B60, B39 and Q54 run along nearby Flushing Avenue (moovitapp.com ). In practical terms, if coming by bus you can get off at Flushing Ave & Morgan (B60, B39, Q54) or at Morgan Ave & Harrison Pl (B60, B57). From those stops it’s only a 1–5 minute walk downhill to the building. As always, check the latest MTA schedules or apps for bus routes and numbers, but traveling via the Morgan L station is the simplest option.
Driving in is possible but parking is limited. Street parking is available on Grattan, Flushing, and nearby side streets, usually metered (pay by coin or app) or restricted to local permit at certain hours – so read signs carefully. Because this is an industrial-residential area, free street parking is scarce during the day. For paid parking, there is a small garage (Luxury Green Parking) at 12 Harrison Place (one block east at Flushing & Harrison) where daily rates are around $10–$15 (www.parkme.com ). That lot has roughly two dozen spaces and tends to fill early. Otherwise, other private lots in Williamsburg (e.g. near Howard Houses or Wythe Avenue) are a few minutes’ drive, but usually \$12–\$20+ per day. Note that evening meter rates may be cheaper, but city parking enforcement is strict overnight and weekends, so plan accordingly.
Rideshares (like Uber/Lyft) can drop you right in front of 117 Grattan Street. Taxis will also know the address. If walking from the subway, the most direct route is west on Flushing Avenue, then a left (south) on Grattan. The building’s ground floor entrance is often locked off-hours; for weekend events, hosts typically unlock a side door. Some visitors ring a buzzer panel (if present) to be buzzed in by a tenant. Generally, arriving early is best – once inside, you can navigate to whichever studio or gallery is open for the event.
Inside the Venue
When you enter 117 Grattan Street, expect a raw, gritty loft atmosphere. There is no grand lobby or concierge desk like a theater; instead you’ll see exposed brick, pipes, and columns. Pay attention to signage – typically, signs or staff will direct you to the specific studio suite hosting the event. Security is minimal; no large bag checks are customary. You may encounter other tenants working as you pass through hallways. The vibe is very DIY and casual. Artists and designers have fitted the spaces to their needs: some units look like clean galleries, others like workshops littered with tools and canvases. There might be a front-desk staff or volunteer during an event, but often you simply introduce yourself to the artist/proprietor upon entry.
This is an office/residential building converted for creative use, so it has basic amenities. There are restroom facilities on each floor; however, for public events you may need to ask a host where to find them. (Most loft buildings of this vintage have ADA-accessible restrooms on the ground floor or each level.) Coat checks or lockers are not provided, though hosts sometimes place temporary racks near the entrance during colder months. Dress is always casual – you can comfortably wear jeans and sneakers. It can get chilly inside though, since heating systems may be basic, so bring a sweater in winter.
There are no concession stands or bars inside. During exhibitions, it’s common to see hosts offering bottled water, coffee, or light snacks (e.g. cookies or cheese plates), but this varies event by event. If you need food or drink, plan ahead or step out to a nearby café. Many visitors come early to grab coffee at Grumley & Sons (just a block away) or wait until later to dine out after an exhibit. Restrooms are usually unisex, single-occupancy stalls. Wifi is unpredictable; staff may have a guest password, but often people rely on cellphone data while touring.
Photography and note-taking are generally welcome (artists often appreciate the publicity). Unless explicitly forbidden by an artist for copyright reasons, feel free to snap a few photos of the space or artworks (but allow artists to pose/arrange themselves if you want to include them). Drone or flash photography is of course not relevant in this small indoor venue. Mobile phone calls should be kept brief, as voices carry; step back to the hallway if you need privacy. The overall atmosphere is collaborative – guests are expected to respect the studio environment (no smoking, no loud music, etc.) and enjoy it as an open, explorative experience.
Nearby Amenities
The neighborhood around 117 Grattan Street offers many options for dining, drinking, and lodging. For a pre-show meal or post-visit dinner, you’ll find popular cafes and restaurants within a short walk. One block north on Flushing Avenue are Verde and Brooklyn Star, known for Southern-style brasserie and legendary biscuits, respectively. Around Morgan Avenue and Flushing is a cluster of spots like La Superior (cash-only Mexican taqueria) and cafe Mogli (cozy coffeehouse). A casual option is Grumley & Sons Deli (corner of Morgan/Flushing) for sandwiches and coffee. If you’re in the mood for pizza, head east on Flushing to the Knitting Factory Live complex where Mighty Tanaka pizzeria serves artisanal pies in a gallery space. (That building also contains a music venue and art gallery.) Further down Flushing at Lorimer Avenue is the Zythe Hotel area, which has Mo C Mo Pizza and various craft beer bars.
For drinks, Bushwick has many hip bars and breweries. A short L-train ride away (two stops to Graham Ave) is the well-known Radegast Hall Biergarten on Wythe Ave, if you feel like extending the evening into Williamsburg’s nightlife. Closer by, Machine Project and Irwin’s on Morgan Avenue are lively cocktail lounges who may host DJ nights or small events. If walking south from the venue, you’ll run into Driggs Avenue’s pub scene and coffee shops near McGolrick Park. (The Morgan L station area itself also has a cozy Irish pub and a moisturizing café if you need a quick drink.)
Hotels are not immediately on Grattan Street, but several choices sit a few blocks west or east. Just over the Brooklyn–Williamsburg boundary (take the L train 3 stops to Bedford, or 10-minute drive) are trendy hotels like The Wythe and Hotel Indigo. Those fill up fast, so many visitors stay in nearby Greenpoint or northern Williamsburg and simply take the L subway to Morgan Ave for events. In Bushwick proper, lodging is mostly Airbnbs or guest houses. For a true local experience, timing your visit around Bushwick Open Studios may align with artists offering spare rooms or shared rentals. In summary, leaving time for coffee before and food or drinks after is wise – the area’s vibrant dining scene will add to your adventure.
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets 117 Grattan Street apart is the atmosphere of authentic Brooklyn creativity. It’s not a polished commercial hall but a converted factory where tens of artists live and work. As one real estate description praises, this “prewar gem” is a “beacon for creativity and innovation” right in the Bushwick arts district (www.roeblinggroup.com ). That mix of rugged factory architecture and talent fosters a unique vibe. Guests often say they love wandering the building’s open lofts and discovering surprise artworks in an industrial setting – it feels more like visiting someone’s studio than attending a corporate event.
This building has seen many local legends. Over the years, it housed the studios of Brooklyn painters, designers, and even small tech startups championing creative industries. That history contributes to a sense of community tradition. Artists like Sharon Zukin note that places like 117 Grattan give Bushwick its “color and cool” – even as neighborhoods change, this building still retains much of that gritty artist-driven character (therealdeal.com ). Its authentic heritage appeals both to artists (who appreciate the functional heavy doors, brick walls and workshop utilities) and to audiences (who enjoy exploring art in a genuine loft environment).
Architecturally, visitors often remark on the “old-world charm” of the space (www.roeblinggroup.com ). Exposed beams, original wood floors, and large multi-pane windows remind you of the building’s 1931 past while newly added amenities (like an elevator and sprinklers) show its modern rebirth. It’s not often a creative studio offers dramatic skylines or polished flooring like 117 Grattan does. In this way, both artists and audiences love the building: creators because it provides raw, adaptable studios that ignite imagination, and audiences because the venue feels intimate and historic. These qualities – the blend of authenticity, high ceilings, and the collective spirit of a working studio community – are what make visiting 117 Grattan Street a memorable experience.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning your visit to 117 Grattan Street #120, a few practical tips can make the experience smoother. First, remember that this is a working artist studio building, not a typical theater or club. Bring a photo ID just in case host staff need to register visitors, but don’t expect formal tickets. It’s wise to arrive early: since events here are often unlocked by volunteers or tenants, arriving near opening time means you won’t miss the start of a studio showing or gallery opening. If you see a lineup, note that many visitors tend to arrive right at opening, especially during Bushwick Open Studios.
Dress comfortably and casually. The building can be chilly, so layers are smart – many people wear a sweater indoors. Closed-toe shoes are ideal, as some studio floors can have art supplies or uneven surfaces. Since everything is low-key, there is no need for formal attire or event dress codes. Photo-friendly: most artists encourage photography, so feel free to bring a camera or smartphone, but be respectful (ask before photographing people or delicate work, and disable flash if artwork is sensitive). The space is wheelchair-accessible (the building has an elevator and presumably ADA-compliant features (www.exrny.com )), but if you have specific mobility needs it may be worth verifying ahead of time – some older industrial buildings have small threshold bumps at entrances. In general, guests use the ground-floor elevator or wide doors for access.
For bags and belongings, no strict policy exists, but light packing is helpful. There is no formal cloakroom or lock-up facility, so a small tote or shoulder bag is easiest to carry around as you move from studio to studio. Note that food and drink are not provided – you may bring bottled water or light snacks in your bag (just avoid anything messy). Some events will offer refreshments, but don’t count on it unless advertised. If you need to use a restroom, simply ask on-site staff; they’ll direct you to the nearest facility. Finally, be mindful this building is shared by many private businesses and artists. Stay with the group you came with, follow any posted signage, and avoid wandering into clearly locked-off areas.
Here are quick answers to common practical questions:
Accessibility: The building has an elevator and accessible pathways. Wheelchair users can visit most open studios (www.exrny.com ).What to bring: A fully charged phone (for directions), light bag, camera, and any printed event invites. You may want cash or card for cover charges (rare) or drinks at after-parties nearby.Photography: Generally allowed indoors. Just be courteous and avoid touching art. Often, artists themselves encourage social media sharing.Age restrictions: Most areas are all-ages, since art studios typically welcome everyone. If a specific event is 21+ (e.g. a wine reception), it will be noted in the invitation.Dress code: Casual. Think of it as an open studio visit – comfortable street clothes are fine.Common mistakes: A common error is showing up on a weekday. Many artists only open to visitors on weekends or by appointment. If possible, plan on a Saturday or Sunday when events usually happen.Stay connected: Mobile phone signal is usually fine in this neighborhood, but Wi-Fi may not be public. It’s smart to download directions or event info beforehand.
What kinds of events take place at 117 Grattan Street?
117 Grattan Street hosts art-focused events rather than concerts or sports. You’ll typically find gallery exhibitions, open studio tours, workshops, and community art events. The most notable recurring event is Bushwick Open Studios (fall), when multiple artists in 117 Grattan open their studios to the public for free viewings (awomensthing.org ) (awomensthing.org ). There are no regular ticketed shows, only occasional gallery or pop-up events.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for something at 117 Grattan?
Generally no. Since 117 Grattan’s events are mostly open studio visits or gallery openings, admission is free or donation-based. There is no main box office. For example, if you attend Bushwick Open Studios here, you simply show up – there are no tickets to buy (awomensthing.org ). On the rare occasion of a special event, organizers will say if RSVP or tickets are needed, but most visitors just walk in during announced hours.
How do I get to 117 Grattan Street using public transit?
The easiest way is the New York City subway. Take the L train to the Morgan Avenue stop, then walk west on Flushing Avenue and turn south on Grattan Street (about 2 blocks total) (www.roeblinggroup.com ) (www.exrny.com ). Several buses also stop nearby: the B60, B57, B39, and Q54 have stops within a block or two of the venue (moovitapp.com ). For example, the B60 stops at Morgan Ave & Harrison Pl (1 min walk), and the B57/B39/Q54 stop at Flushing & Morgan (4 min walk). Public transit is generally more convenient than driving in this area.
Is there parking available at or near 117 Grattan?
Street parking is the most common option, but it can be limited during the day. Metered spots line Grattan and adjacent streets, so bring coins or a parking app. For paid parking, there is a small public lot (Luxury Green Parking) at 12 Harrison Place (Flushing & Harrison) charging about $12–$15 for a day (www.parkme.com ). Other private lots exist in nearby Williamsburg (often $10–$20/day). Be sure to check street signs carefully for regulations before parking, especially during event hours.
What is the layout of 117 Grattan like – are there assigned seats or standing areas?
The interior is an open industrial loft, so there are no fixed seats or formal audience sections. Most studio units are wide open floor plans. If seating is needed, event hosts usually bring in folding chairs. Viewpoints are flexible – you can stand or sit wherever is comfortable. If an onsite event sets up chairs, opt for the front rows facing the artwork or speaker. Otherwise, plan to move around; there might be stools or benches by some gallery walls, but generally people mill about, browsing exhibits or chatting. In short, no reserved seating – treat it like exploring an unfamiliar gallery space.
Are events at 117 Grattan Street indoor or outdoor?
Virtually all activities are indoors, inside the 1931 brick building. (Open studios typically occur within the artist studios indoors.) There is a small outdoor loading area at the back, but it’s not used for public gatherings. If weather is bad, have no fear – everything happens inside the heated/cooled studio spaces or common areas.
Is 117 Grattan Street accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the building has an elevator and modern amenities, so it is largely wheelchair accessible (www.exrny.com ). Each floor can be reached by lift, and doorways are standard width. Restrooms should include at least one ADA stall. Keep in mind this is an older converted building, so there may be small thresholds or ramped entries; if in doubt contact the event organizer to confirm access details. In general, however, visitors with mobility limitations can navigate the venue.
Can I bring a camera or record video at the events here?
Usually yes. Most events (art shows, open studios) welcome photography – in fact, artists often encourage attendees to document the visit for social media. You should still ask permission if you’re directing the camera at a person or sensitive artwork. Flash photography may be frowned upon if the artwork could be affected, but standard handheld photos are fine. Video recording is also typically allowed, but again be respectful. There are no official media restrictions posted, so treating the spaces as open gallery areas is a safe approach.
Are food and drink available inside 117 Grattan?
Not usually. There is no cafe or bar inside. Visitors sometimes bring unopened water bottles or lightly snacking items. Some events may provide light refreshments (e.g. snacks and water) for guests, but you should not expect a full-service concession. It’s best to eat beforehand or plan to grab a bite afterwards. Nearby eateries (see above) are your option. If the event hosts wine or coffee service, that will be advertised in the event details.
Is there a coat check or storage at 117 Grattan?
No, there is generally no formal coat check. If you have outerwear, you’ll likely need to keep it with you or drape it on a chair. Most visitors use a small bag they can carry around. During cooler months, some events may have a volunteer hang coats on a rack in the entryway, but this is informal. Plan to bring a manageable bag rather than large luggage.
What are the best nearby transit options after late-night events?
The L train runs 24/7, so if you stay late the Morgan Ave stop will still be open. Late-night buses like the B60 also run overnight through Bushwick (moovitapp.com ). If you miss public transit, all rideshare services operate here. Taxis are harder to find, so it’s safest for groups to get a ride share pickup from Flushing Avenue. For very late nights, keep in mind Flushing Avenue and Morgan are well-lit main streets, so it’s generally safe and easy to hail or request a ride home from there.
How many people can the venue hold (capacity)?
Since 117 Grattan is essentially a studio building, there is no official published capacity. A very rough estimate is that each large studio could handle a few dozen people standing. In practice, popular open studio events see hundreds of visitors streaming through over a weekend, but rarely more than 50–100 at once in any one room. In short, expect crowded but not packed quarters – events here are intimate in scale.
Are children allowed, and is it kid-friendly?
Yes, most events at 117 Grattan are family-friendly. You’ll often see parents bringing kids during Open Studios or daytime gallery shows. There is no formal age restriction, so children of all ages can visit, though supervision is advised since these are working studios (with art tools and equipment around). For very young children or strollers, be mindful of step-free access (the elevator can be used). Some exhibitions may tackle adult themes, but generally the atmosphere is casual and suitable for teens and tweens.
