There were similarities and differences in Early New York and Brooklyn architecture and streetscape. They both had different ideas on how they should build their city. Brooklyn architecture was based on ideas from Neoclassicism, Greek Revival, Italianate, Romanesque, Victorian Gothic.

Early Brooklyn used many different architectural styles. For example, Neoclassicism is architectural style seen in Brooklyn structures such as on Saints Annie’s preschool on Willow street and the columns/ exterior of buildings on porticos ST. In the late 18th and early 19th century, the Greek Revival style can be seen in the Brooklyn Heights historic district. This style was used in the construction of the Dime Saving Bank in Brooklyn. The bank has a combination of Doric and Ionic pillars. Another architectural style used was Italianate. One defining characteristic of this style is connecting arch windows. Brownstones house from this period were row houses it utilized the Italianate style. Brooklyn also has elements of Romanesque. This style is comprised of high circular arched windows. The US Post office in Cadman Plaza uses this style. Elements from the Victorian Gothic style can be seen on St. Nicholas Antiochian church. The church as dormer windows a component of the Victorian Gothic style.

Early Manhattan mainly used stone and brick for construction for wood-frame houses, until the Great Fire of 1835. After the Great Fire, brick became the central material used in building houses. Federal-style came to the United States in 1780 – 1830. In 1811 the federal style became part the commissioner’s plan to use in building such as lighting houses, harbor buildings, and hospitals. South port was the earliest places to get developed. Manhattan shoreline had a trading post and warehouses. Outside of most building and warehouses, it was made from stucco and rich material.