Morris Adjmi Architects

Brooklyn & Church

28,000 square feet
13 stories
Charlotte, North Carolina
2026

Brooklyn & Church is the first redevelopment project of its kind in Uptown Charlotte. It involves converting a 1970s-era office tower to residential use and removing a portion of the existing monolithic structure to make way for a new low-rise marquee retail building, activated plaza, and park.

The design of the jewelbox marquee retail building, characterized by intricate layers of glass and ornamental metalwork, was inspired by the Carreau du Temple in Paris. At the ground level, ornate details create a rich, inviting experience, while higher elevations feature sleeker and simpler materials. The industrial-inspired factory-style gridded storefront system is optimized to allow flexible placement of entry doors, enhancing accessibility and functionality. A louver band is discreetly concealed behind a decorative signage screen, maintaining the pavilion's clean aesthetic.

Unlike the towering skyscrapers of downtown Charlotte, the pavilion is intentionally smaller, creating a more human-scaled and approachable environment. It introduces a generous public plaza, replacing a previously monolithic concrete structure, to encourage community interaction and leisure. This project not only enhances the visual appeal of the site but also contributes to the urban fabric of downtown Charlotte by providing a welcoming, well-scaled public space.