Prospect-Lefferts Gardens

The design of Prospect-Lefferts Gardens is the result of very careful planning on the part of the Lefferts family, the major landowners in the area during the 1800’s. The restrictions on building development during that time are reminiscent of the current limitations for landmarked buildings in NYC. Building height and materials were regulated, and development was tamed to allow for yard and garden space. Not surprisingly, the current residents have a serious interest in landmark preservation, and the neighborhood is likely to resist major changes that could detract from its historic aesthetic. Prospect-Lefferts Gardens feels more secluded and close-knit than some of the areas on the western side of Prospect Park, but is still within walking distance of their many restaurants and shops. The Brooklyn Museum of Art, central branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, and the Brooklyn Botanical Garden are also a short distance away. Though the original settlers in the area were Dutch, the diverse neighborhood now has many Caribbean immigrants. The edge of the Prospect Park that touches P-L G is known for its gigantic multi-cultural Sunday afternoon drum circle. The housing near the park is filled with single-family, historic homes, and more rental apartments, condos, and co-ops are available on the fringes of the neighborhood. The average studio rental is in the $900-1100/mo range and 1Br’s from $1000-1300/mo. Median residential sales are in the $600-800K range. Those wanting to rent or buy is this neighborhood must be slightly persistent because of its desirability and limited housing stock.