About LIGHT HOUSE
Light House Brooklyn (often stylized LIGHT HOUSE) is a new creative campus and event venue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. It opened in late 2025 as the East Coast outpost of The Lighthouse (a creator community backed by Whalar Group) (lbbonline.com ). The campus occupies a landmarked 19th-century brick warehouse at 58 Kent Street – the historic Eberhard Faber pencil-factory complex from 1872 (www.archpaper.com ) (lbbonline.com ). Rather than erasing its industrial past, the renovation preserved the original masonry facades and even the layers of graffiti, while inserting a lofty steel-and-glass atrium inside (www.archpaper.com ) (lbbonline.com ). Today the atrium is filled with plants and natural light, blending the building’s rugged history with a clean, Bauhaus-inspired design (lbbonline.com ).
In practice, Light House is part coworking space, part sound studio, and part flagship event venue. Inside are podcast and music recording studios, photography/photo labs, editing suites and collaborative workrooms – together with a lounge library and cafe-bar (lbbonline.com ). There is also a dedicated Screening Room/Theater for video presentations or talks, and an intimate bar and cafe area in the lobby. The most dramatic feature is a 6,000-square-foot rooftop terrace overlooking the East River – one of the largest outdoor performance spaces in the city (lbbonline.com ). This terrace, plus other flexible spaces, can accommodate hundreds of guests for open-air or indoor events. In all, Light House intentionally celebrates Brooklyn’s creative spirit: it was designed to foster “artistry, creativity, and] reinvention” as a living community for creators ([lbbonline.com ), honoring the neighborhood’s legacy as a cultural hub (lbbonline.com ).
Events and Programming
Light House does not host typical nightclub acts; its programming centers on creative media and storytelling. The opening highlight was a two-day Brooklyn Campus Festival (November 5–6, 2025) combining panel talks, live podcasts, performances and social gatherings (lbbonline.com ). For example, the festival featured an album release by hip-hop artist Danny Brown, conversations with industry figures like David Droga, and live DJ sets (e.g. by Stretch Armstrong) (lbbonline.com ) (lbbonline.com ). Film screenings, design workshops and immersive art experiences have also been part of its launch programming. Going forward, Light House plans a rich calendar of events in partnership with media and tech organizations (Substack, Tribeca Festival, Samsung, etc.) (lbbonline.com ). These include creator workshops, podcast tapings, panel discussions with artists and executives, plus occasional music or comedy shows. Ticket pricing varies by event, but public programs range from free or low-cost workshops to higher-tier talks or concerts; tickets usually go on sale via the official website or newsletter well in advance.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for public events at Light House are typically sold online. Keep an eye on The Lighthouse Brooklyn website, social media, or member newsletters for announcements. Big events (like the opening festival) usually require advance purchase or RSVP. Popular talks and performances can sell out days or weeks before the event, so it’s wise to get tickets early. VIP or premium (name-your-price) options may be offered for special events to support the creators. There is no general box office sidewalk sales – most ticketing is handled digitally. For recurring workshops or classes, some are free for members or offered via promotion codes, while others charge a fixed fee. If an event is free, admission might still be by reservation only.
Seating and Layout
The campus layout is very open and flexible. The main Screening Room/Theater has rows of chairs that can accommodate a small audience (often 50–100 people) with stadium-style sightlines. Other event spaces are “white box” studios or multi-purpose rooms that can be seated theater-style or set up cabaret-style depending on the show. The rooftop terrace is general-admission standing room (with some high tables); arriving early helps secure a front-row place by the railing. Sightlines in the terrace space are generally good, though people in the very back row of assembled chairs may want to stand and move forward during performances. Because the interior floors have high ceilings and minimal obstructions, most spots give a clear view of the stage or speaker area. Acoustically, Light House invested in high-quality sound and lighting gear, so audio is quite clean even (for example) in the screening room (lbbonline.com ). The all-white décor and natural light also aid visibility. The only “dead zones” are very close to side walls or far corners, so for talks or concerts the best seats are usually center-left/right in mid-row where audio/visual is centered. VIP and press seating (when provided) is always front-center. General-admission guests can sit or stand throughout the venue; stools and bar-height counters near the cafe offer alternate vantage points.
Getting There and Parking
Light House is located at 58 Kent Street in Greenpoint (ZIP 11222), just north of Manhattan Avenue and east of the BQE. The nearest subway is the G train (Greenpoint Avenue or Nassau Avenue stations), which is about a 7–10 minute walk. Alternatively, the L train (Bedford Avenue or Lorimer Street) is one subway stop away in Williamsburg, followed by a short bus or rideshare drive north. Multiple city buses stop nearby: the B32 runs along Manhattan Ave, and the B43/B48 cross Greenpoint Ave. For waterfront transit, the East River Ferry’s Greenpoint stop (near West Street & Manhattan Avenue) is a 5-minute walk away. If driving, there is some metered street parking on Kent, Franklin, or Manhattan, but spots fill up quickly; paid lots are extremely scarce. For drop-off or rideshare, the curb at Kent & Franklin is convenient. Light House recommends public transit or rideshare whenever possible. During weekday events, allow extra time for traffic around the BQE. The building is about 3 minutes off the highway (BQE Exit 35).
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, you’ll find a reception or grab-and-go coffee bar in the lobby (staff can direct you to events or check your tickets). Expect a friendly, casual check-in process – security is minimal (often just a quick bag check). The vibe is modern and communal: the interior finishes are purposefully bright white, with warm wood accents and splashes of green from potted plants (lbbonline.com ). Ambient indie music often plays softly in the background of the café. During events, light refreshments and drinks are available: the in-house bar/coffee shop serves espresso-based drinks, cocktails, beer and wine (lbbonline.com ). Larger events may have an open bar or snack tables set up. Wi-Fi is free and fast throughout the venue – a good perk if you need to work or look up info. There are wall outlets and USB ports in most seating areas (even on the rooftop terrace). The venue has multiple restrooms on each floor (all gender-neutral and ADA-accessible) and an elevator that reaches every level, including the roof. You’ll also see a small merchandise counter or display near the main event spaces selling event T-shirts or media releases. A coatroom isn’t permanent, but there’s usually space by the entry for guests to hang jackets. Overall, Light House feels more like a slick co-working loft or art gallery than a traditional nightclub. Attendees often mingle at high-top tables in the lounge, or grab a stool at the bar between shows.
Nearby Amenities
Greenpoint offers a wide variety of pre-show dining and post-show options. Within a few blocks are casual spots like Japanese ramen and sushi bars, pizza joints (the famous Peter Pan Donuts at Franklin St. is a local landmark), and upscale New American restaurants. Manhattan Avenue (two blocks east) has cafes and gastropubs ideal for a light meal or coffee before the show; for example, Di An Di (Vietnamese) and Mission Chinese are popular nearby. A short walk south to Franklin Street brings you to Brooklyn Crab (seafood) and Bohemian Hall (Polish-style biergarten). On the bar side, beer gardens like Brooklyn Barge on the waterfront can be reached by a pleasant stroll. For overnight stays, there are few hotels in immediate Greenpoint, but several boutique hotels in nearby Williamsburg (such as the Wythe Hotel or William Vale) are within a 5–10 minute drive or short subway ride. Late-night transit: The G train runs late into the evening on weekends, and 24-hour buses (e.g. B46 Select Bus) run south from Williamsburg into Brooklyn late at night. Rideshare apps work reliably throughout the area at any hour.
What Makes This Venue Special
Light House stands out for its blend of historic architecture and new-media ambition. It re-activates a once-shuttered industrial landmark (www.archpaper.com ) into a “creator campus” that no other NYC venue quite matches. The mix of facilities – from recording studios to a waterfront rooftop – lets artists develop ideas from start (writing, recording, editing) all the way to public showcase in one place (lbbonline.com ) (lbbonline.com ). Its storied opening festival (with guests like Danny Brown and Julia Fox) already generated local buzz. Locally, it has resurrected a sense of creative energy in Greenpoint; as one council member quipped, it’s “bringing a creative energy back… we haven’t felt since people were smoking formaldehyde outside the Vice offices” (lbbonline.com ). Architecturally, the light-filled atrium and preserved facades give it a “hidden gem” vibe – a working studio behind an old brick wall. On a cultural level, Light House reflects Brooklyn’s creative renaissance: it’s one of only two Lighthouses (the other opened in Venice, California) aimed at building a global network for creators (lbbonline.com ). This “studio system for creators” (lbbonline.com ) makes it a beacon in the local scene – a place where influential artists, entrepreneurs and technologists might cross paths. For audiences and musicians alike, it offers a change of pace from standard clubs or theaters. The first notes of a live set or the launch of a new podcast here feels like a collaborative art experiment, and riding the ferry home past the glowing rooftop lights is a uniquely Brooklyn experience.
Visitor Tips and Information
Light House is fully ADA-accessible, with an elevator serving every floor (including the roof terrace) and wheelchair seating in each public space. If you have accessibility needs, staff are generally helpful – it’s a new venue with code-compliant facilities. Dress is typically casual to creative-casual; you’ll fit in wearing jeans, shirts or artsy business-casual attire. Bring photo ID if you plan to drink alcoholic beverages. Outside food and large bags or backpacks are not allowed during events, and photography for commercial use (video or pro cameras) requires approval. Phones are allowed for pictures, but please put devices on silent during shows. Coat checks aren’t permanent, so plan to keep your belongings with you or hang jackets in your seating area. Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before a show for check-in and seating, especially if it’s a popular event. If you’re unsure which door to use, head to the Kent Street entrance with the park-side facade. Finally, double-check event ages – many talks or workshops are 18+ (since alcohol is served), though some daytime events may be all-ages. In cooler months, the rooftop may be closed or limited, so check event notes for indoor vs outdoor locations.
How do I buy tickets for events at Light House?
Most tickets are sold online through Light House’s official site or newsletter. Check their events page or social media for announcements. Popular shows may sell out, so it’s best to reserve early. There is no on-site box office for walk-up ticket sales.
Where is Light House located and how do I get there by subway?
Light House is at 58 Kent Street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn (between Franklin and Manhattan Avenues). It’s closest to the G train (Greenpoint Ave or Nassau Ave stops) about a 5–10 minute walk. You can also take L to Bedford Ave then a short bus or walk north, or the East River Ferry to the Greenpoint dock followed by a brief walk.
What kind of seating does Light House have?
Light House’s spaces are mostly flexible. The screening room/theater has rows of chairs (several dozen seats). Other rooms and the rooftop are open-plan: guests stand for concerts, or chairs can be arranged for lectures. There are also lounge and cafe seating areas. No seats are reserved in advance unless you purchase a VIP ticket.
Can I bring food, drinks, or cameras into the venue?
Outside food and alcoholic beverages are not allowed. Light House has an on-site cafe/bar where guests can buy drinks and snacks. Small personal cameras or phones are fine for pictures, but large professional cameras or tripods need advance approval. Expect a friendly security check at entrance.
Is Light House wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building has an elevator serving all floors, and each event space has wheelchair-accessible seating or standing areas. Restrooms are ADA-compliant. If you have special access needs, venue staff are usually happy to assist.
Are there age restrictions or a dress code?
Most public events at Light House are 18+ (especially if alcohol is sold), though some daytime workshops may allow younger attendees. There is no formal dress code; casual or “creative” attire is the norm. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Is Light House the same as the Lighthouse restaurant in Williamsburg?
No. The Lighthouse restaurant (on Borinquen Place in Williamsburg) is a separate business. Light House Brooklyn is an events and creative space at 58 Kent Street in Greenpoint. They are completely unrelated venues.
Who was responsible for designing Light House?
The interior design was led by Nathan Warkentin of Warkentin Associates (who also designed The Lighthouse Venice campus) (lbbonline.com ). The historic facade preservation was overseen by architects Scott Henson and Ole Sondresen (www.archpaper.com ). In general, the venue’s look reflects a blend of industrial heritage and modern minimalist style.
Can I rent Light House for a private event?
Light House is primarily intended for its creative community and public programming, but select spaces may be available for private rentals on a case-by-case basis. It’s not a conventional party hall, so inquiries usually go through their events or venue team. Contact the venue well in advance to discuss availability and pricing.
Are Wi-Fi and other amenities available for visitors?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue for attendees and members. Each floor has power outlets and USB charging points. There is a full-service bar and coffee shop onsite (lbbonline.com ). Restrooms (including accessible stalls) are available on each level. There’s a small merchandise area near the entrance during events.
What is the capacity of Light House?
Capacity varies by space. The rooftop terrace alone (6,000 sq ft) can accommodate several hundred standing guests (lbbonline.com ). The screening room seats dozens, and other rooms hold 30–50 each depending on setup. Since seating is flexible, total capacity across all spaces can reach a few hundred. Official occupancy figures are set by the fire department for each layout.
What is the history of the Light House building?
The building at 58 Kent Street was part of the Eberhard Faber pencil factory complex, with portions dating back to the 1860s–1870s (www.archpaper.com ). Faber moved operations here around 1872, designing the Renaissance-Revival central section. The upper floors were demolished in the 1980s, leaving only the facades (www.archpaper.com ). In 2011 an internet company (later known as Kickstarter) renovated the site, preserving the brick walls and adding new insertions. The Lighthouse repurposed this restored structure for its Brooklyn campus.
What should I know about transportation or parking?
The venue is walkable from nearby transit (G subway or ferry) (streeteasy.com ). Street parking is very limited; buses and rideshare are recommended. The nearest bus routes are the B32 on Manhattan Av and B43/B48 on Franklin. A major parking garage is not adjacent, so if driving, arrive early for scarce metered spots.
