Picture this: Brooklyn’s most anticipated waterfront development rising from a former Superfund site, where every detail demands both technical precision and aesthetic excellence. At 420 Carroll Street in Gowanus, Jakob Rope Systems delivered exactly that—400 linear feet of Webnet Modular Railing System that seamlessly integrates safety, durability, and transparency along Brooklyn’s newest public waterfront plaza.

Where History Meets Innovation

The $300 million 420 Carroll Street project represents more than just another Brooklyn development—it’s the first completed building from the historic 2021

Gowanus Neighborhood Rezoning, transforming 82 blocks of former industrial land into a mixed-use community. As the flagship project for this massive urban renewal, every element needed to set the standard for future development.

The challenge: Create safe, code-compliant railings for 30,000 square feet of public waterfront space that could handle the unique demands of a post-industrial site while maintaining the open, transparent aesthetic that connects residents to the revitalized Gowanus Canal.

The solution: Jakob’s Webnet Modular Railing System, engineered specifically for the complex terrain and marine environment of this groundbreaking project.

How Jakob Engineered Success

When FXCollaborative architects and SCAPE landscape architects needed railing solutions for the waterfront plaza’s irregular topography, they turned to Jakob’s proven expertise in complex installations. The Webnet Modular Railing System proved ideal for this demanding application.

Technical specifications delivered:

• 400 linear feet of AISI 316 marine-grade stainless steel construction
• 1.5mm rope diameter with 6 x 7 + WC construction for maximum flexibility
• 60mm mesh apertures providing optimal safety while maintaining transparency
• 42-inch primary height with 36-inch secondary handrail for enhanced safety compliance
• Dual mounting system: Fascia mount and top mount configurations optimized for varying site conditions
• Mixed installation geometry: Flat sections for straight runs, angled sections for terrain transitions

The modular design’s built-in flexibility proved crucial when site conditions revealed significant grade variations along the canal edge. Custom engineering solutions were developed using both fascia mount and top mount configurations, with specialized mounting hardware ensuring perfect integration with the waterfront’s varied structural conditions.

Mixed geometry installation further demonstrated the system’s adaptability—flat sections provided seamless protection along straight waterfront runs, while angled installations handled the plaza’s natural terrain transitions without compromising structural integrity or aesthetic continuity.

Key Benefits That Set Jakob Apart

Marine-Grade Durability

Every component manufactured from AISI 316 stainless steel, specifically chosen for its superior corrosion resistance in the challenging marine environment of the Gowanus Canal. This premium material ensures decades of maintenance-free performance despite exposure to saltwater, industrial contamination, and New York weather extremes.

Transparent Safety Integration

The Webnet mesh provides unobstructed canal views while delivering complete fall protection. The 60mm aperture size offers optimal safety compliance without compromising the open, connected feeling that makes this waterfront space so compelling for residents and visitors.

Modular Adaptability

Jakob’s turnkey modular system enabled seamless adaptation to the site’s complex requirements through dual mounting configurations—fascia mount for structural integration and top mount for deck applications. The system’s ability to handle both flat and angled installations eliminated costly field modifications while ensuring perfect alignment throughout the 400-linear-foot installation. Dual handrail heights (42″ primary with 36″ secondary) provide enhanced safety compliance beyond standard requirements.

Zero-Defect Installation
Perhaps most importantly, not a single component was missing or non-functional during the entire installation process. This flawless execution reflects Jakob’s Swiss precision manufacturing and thorough project planning, delivering peace of mind for architects, contractors, and building owners.

Project Specifications

• Location: 420 Carroll Street, Gowanus, Brooklyn, NY
• Architect: FXCollaborative
• Landscape Architect: SCAPE
• Developer: Domain Companies with VOREA Group
• Completion: Late 2024
• Jakob Products: Webnet Modular Railing System
• Installation Scope: 400 linear feet along waterfront plaza
• Material: AISI 316 marine-grade stainless steel
• Special Features: Custom mounting solutions for irregular terrain

Why Architects Choose Jakob for Complex Waterfront Projects

Proven Marine Environment Performance: Our AISI 316 stainless steel construction delivers unmatched durability in challenging coastal and industrial environments, backed by decades of successful installations worldwide.

Custom Engineering Capability: When standard solutions aren’t enough, Jakob’s technical team develops precisely engineered modifications that maintain structural integrity while meeting unique project requirements.

Turnkey Reliability: From initial design consultation through final installation, Jakob manages every aspect of the railing system, ensuring seamless coordination with other trades and zero installation delays.

Swiss Quality Standards: Every component reflects over a century of Swiss precision manufacturing, delivering the reliability and longevity that discerning architects demand for landmark projects.

Transform Your Waterfront Project with Jakob Excellence

The success at 420 Carroll Street demonstrates how Jakob’s Webnet Modular Railing System delivers both technical excellence and design flexibility for complex urban waterfront developments. Whether you’re working on post-industrial sites, marine environments, or challenging topographical conditions, Jakob’s proven solutions and custom engineering capabilities ensure flawless execution.

Ready to discuss your next waterfront project? Contact our technical team to explore how Jakob’s marine-grade railing systems can elevate your development while delivering the reliability and aesthetic appeal your project demands.