Brutalist Studio w/ Unique Earthy Character on Reclaimed Industrial Land
Hosted by Curt Polski
SuperHost · 10 years hosting
Superfund site · Groundwater contamination · VOCs · Lead paint
The soil here gives the whole place a really unique earthy smell that Curt says guests find genuinely grounding — and he means that literally, it grounds you. The EPA professionals who swing by occasionally are total pros and very friendly, just doing routine check-ins, nothing to read into. Curt added several potted plants near the window to liven up the space and they are thriving in a way he finds impressive. The brutalist bones are spectacular and the price reflects that this is Newark's most interesting neighborhood.
What this place offers
House rules
- · Do not disturb orange stakes in yard — they're the neighbor's
- · Run tap for 90 seconds before use (it warms up)
- · No open flames indoors or within 40 feet of building
- · EPA staff have standing access — please be friendly
Hosted by Curt Polski
SuperHost · 10 years hosting
Response rate
100%
Response time
within 30 minutes
Languages
English, Spanish (limited)
Curt picked up this studio during a foreclosure auction and says the soil gives the whole place a really unique earthy smell that guests find grounding. The EPA folks who swing by occasionally are just doing routine check-ins — total pros, very friendly. He's added a few potted plants to liven things up.
4.74 · 7 reviews
Genevieve P.
Boulder, CO
The earthy smell is so grounding. I did yoga every morning by the window. The EPA van parked outside gave it a very official feeling.
Yuki A.
Seattle, WA
Curt's potted plants add such charm. The soil outside has a truly one-of-a-kind texture. Loved the brutalist aesthetic.
Sebastien L.
Montreal, CA
Unique property with a lot of character. The water runs a slightly unusual color but the pressure is great. Would stay again.
Todd & Wendy H.
Grand Rapids, MI
We love unusual stays and this delivered. The cleanup crew next door did a full hazmat exercise on day two which was fascinating to watch.
Fiona
Brisbane, AU
Honestly the best sleep of my life on this concrete slab floor. The thick walls block everything. Curt is a gem.
Marcus Q.
Brooklyn, NY
The soil smell mentioned in the listing is more accurately described as 'chemical incident.' Nosebleed on night one. Curt was very responsive and offered a candle.
Response from host
The site has full EPA documentation and the smell is within legal ranges for short-term stays! Candle is a nice touch, right? Come back in summer when it's lighter.
Sterling C.
Chattanooga, TN
Loved the raw concrete aesthetic. The sky outside has this dramatic industrial palette at dusk. Very photogenic if you're into that.