New Affordable Housing Lottery Launches at Baltic House in Gowanus

The 11-story, 92-unit building includes amenities like an art room, podcast room, and ball court.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:31pm

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An affordable housing lottery has launched for a new 11-story, 92-unit building called Baltic House on the corner of Gowanus' Third Avenue and Baltic Street. The development, which is taking advantage of the neighborhood's recent rezoning, includes 23 rent-stabilized and income-restricted studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, 18 of which are considered truly affordable for families earning 40% to 60% of the Area Median Income.

Why it matters

The Baltic House project is the latest example of new residential development in Gowanus spurred by the neighborhood's 2021 rezoning, which has led to the replacement of low-lying commercial and industrial sites with larger multi-unit buildings. As part of the Mandatory Inclusionary Housing program, the project is required to include affordable units, providing much-needed affordable housing options in an increasingly expensive area.

The details

The Baltic House development spans Third Avenue from Baltic to Butler streets and was designed by Jay Architect & Engineering DPC. In addition to the affordable units, the building includes amenities like an art room, podcast room, ball court, children's playroom, gym, dog run, theater, backyard, rooftop terrace, and bike room. The market-rate units currently listed on StreetEasy range from $3,425 for a studio to $5,750 for a two-bedroom.

  • The affordable housing lottery for Baltic House opened on January 29, 2026.
  • The lottery closes on February 9, 2026.

The players

159 Third Residence LLC

The developer of the Baltic House project, with Simon Kaufman as the managing member.

Jay Architect & Engineering DPC

The architectural firm that designed the Baltic House development.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The lottery for the affordable units at Baltic House closes on February 9, 2026. Interested applicants must apply through the New York City Housing Connect website.

The takeaway

The Baltic House project is an example of how the Gowanus rezoning is leading to the development of new residential buildings with affordable housing components, providing more options for low- and moderate-income families in an increasingly expensive neighborhood.