VERSO&friends: a collective show exhibits fresh design in red hook

verso activates an industrial waterfront neighborhood

For the first time, design gallery VERSO arrives in Brooklyn with its recent exhibition, VERSO&Friends. During New York’s annual design week, NYCxDesign, it has taken over a newly built residential building at 96 King, in the heart of Red Hook. Much like the neighborhood itself, known for its removed, waterfront location and artistic spirit, 96 King evokes a unique atmosphere that’s both historic and contemporary. Tribeca-based VERSO is no stranger to pop-up exhibitions — it has previously presented group shows in Milan, Miami, Aspen, and even Bridgehampton’s Six Square House designed by Young Projects (see designboom’s coverage here).

VERSO founder Amauri Aguiar | images © Jonathan Hokklo

Verso&Friends: a diverse collection of fresh design

VERSO‘s venture in Red Hook, Brooklyn goes beyond its VERSO&Friends exhibition, as 96 King itself is an architecturally-relevant location. The townhouse takes shape with a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design elements. The building was designed by Eli Fernald of Ground Studio & Workshop, who acted as developer, architect, and general contractor.

The group’s commitment to encouraging community engagement is evident in its selection process. The group — founded by Amauri Aguiar and Bryan Young — invited twenty-three brands and designers to occupy the space, transforming it into a dynamic platform for showcasing their latest work. This collaborative effort creates an eclectic dialogue between the building’s architecture, the curated pieces, and the diverse group of exhibitors.

Tribeca-based VERSO takes over 96 King in Red Hook during NYCxDesign 2024

inside the exhibition

Works on display at the Red Hook show VERSO&Friends represent designers and studios from New York and beyond. From the Tube Chair, a bouncy lounge by Brooklyn-based studio Objects of Common Interest, to bold, patterned paintings and a sculptural chandelier by Studio Proba. The woodworking techniques of New York and India-based studio Evam are shown with a set of chairs, stools, and a table atop a brick plinth. Meanwhile, a blue Throne bench by Hannah Bigeleisen is flanked by a pair of side tables / stools and brings vibrant color to the space.

The furniture pieces, design objects, and artworks are exhibited across the living spaces, bedrooms, and bathrooms of the three full-floor residences in the Red Hook, Brooklyn condo, as well as in the backyard and carport. VERSO highlights that this setting provides a unique backdrop for the diverse designs, which complement the architecture. VERSO’s arrival in Brooklyn isn’t just about celebrating design. It’s about fostering connections within the international design community. By bringing together such a wide array of talent and vision, 96 King is transformed beyond just a Brooklyn townhouse. It becomes a hub of inspiration and collaboration, set to leave a lasting mark on the borough’s ever-evolving design scene.

works by twenty-three designers are displayed as part of VERSO & Friends
96 King is a new residential building with a blend of traditional and contemporary design

VERSO has presented pop-up exhibitions in Milan, Miami, Aspen, and Bridgehampton