Marty Crane’s dreams are coming true in Newark, to a certain extent, as the iconic Ballantine Brewery site launches residential leasing in the Ironbound.

The 280-unit project developed by Shorewood in partnership with Bridge Investment Group offers renters studio to two-bedroom layouts, modern amenities and 2,600 square feet of commercial space.

Now The Ballantine, the redevelopment at 80 Freeman St. transformed a historic site that once housed one of the country’s oldest beer brands, which fans of “Frasier” will certainly recognize. The project also aims to energize the Ironbound neighborhood.

Newark officials as well as the development team celebrated the property’s completion earlier in 2025, with leasing opening in March. The work marks New York-based Shorewood Real Estate’s first venture in New Jersey’s largest city.

“The Ballantine marks an important chapter in Newark’s growth, thoughtfully integrating the site’s historic significance with a modern vision for the Ironbound’s northern edge,” commented Shorewood CEO Larry Davis.

“[W]e saw an opportunity to revitalize a once prominent, but underutilized property into an extension of the neighborhood, providing residents with a contemporary living experience rooted in local character,” Davis added.

Minno & Wasko Architects designed the work, with Melillo Bauer Carman handling landscaping.

Amenities abound

Inside, apartments offer 9-foot ceilings, luxury plank flooring, custom closets, in-home washer and dryers, and smart lock systems. Kitchens come equipped with stainless steel appliances, Silestone countertops, full-height tiled backsplashes and soft-close cabinetry. Additionally, bathrooms feature porcelain tile floors, Silestone vanity countertops and full-height ceramic tiled walls.

Select residences also offer private patios or terraces.

Rounding out the resident experience, amenities include concierge services, a rooftop deck with lounge areas, and courtyard with grills as well as dining spaces; a fitness center, yoga studio, game room with multi-sport simulator, coworking areas, resident lounge and pet spa can be found within the building.

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Tapping into convenience, The Ballantine offers access to Newark Penn Station as well as shuttle service to the depot. Other perks for moving around include bike storage and EV charging stations.

Located a half mile from River Bank Park to the north and the Ironbound’s cultural hub to the west, residents also have access to an engaged and lively destination outside their doors. Beyond a renowned food scene, the Ironbound boasts local parks, boutique shops and a strong sense of community.

The Marketing Directors serves as exclusive marketing and leasing agent. Initial occupancy is slated for April.

“Newark’s Ironbound is known for its vitality, diversity, and distinct character,” said Jacqueline Urgo, president of The Marketing Directors. “The Ballantine adds a fresh dimension to this unique neighborhood, offering modern living options that align with its dynamic appeal.”

Shorewood said it obtained the rights to use the Ballantine name, now owned by Pabst Blue Ribbon, for the building’s branding. It also made sure to incorporate tributes to the brewery throughout the property.

Curated artwork and amenity space design elements reflect the site’s industrial heritage while embracing modern aesthetics.

The P. Ballantine and Sons Brewing Co. site closed its doors in 1972, but it got its start in the Brick City way before that, back in 1840. Producing millions of barrels of beer annually, the company was a major economic driver for the city.

While the Ballantine family’s mansion has been restored and reopened to the public as part of the Newark Museum of Art, Shorewood said it razed a former four-story building and adjacent parking lot that comprised part of the brewery building for its new, modern use.

Other parts of Ballantine’s history have also moved forward into the future as new industrial sites, such as Turnbridge Equities’ $10 million renovation at 397-447 Ferry St. Monthly rents at The Ballantine start from the $2,000s. Grand opening incentives include up to two months free.