Our Approach

At Brooklyn Builders Studio, we curate a hands‑on, design‑forward learning environment where community members explore architecture through curiosity, creativity, and real materials. Our approach is rooted in thoughtful, sustainable practices and a studio culture that encourages iteration, collaboration, and confidence.

Screen-Free Studio

We believe the best learning happens through hands‑on engagement. Our core programs are intentionally screen‑free, with digital tools introduced only in designated courses.

Sustainable Materials

We use real, high‑quality, sustainable materials rather than Styrofoam or single‑use plastics. Students learn to build with intention, understand material behavior, and appreciate the environmental impact of design.

Portfolio-Based Learning

Every project is documented throughout the program.

  • Participants receive a photographed portfolio of their drawings and models.
  • We also store portfolios digitally, allowing returning students to build on their work over time.

Circular Making

To support sustainable building practices (and keep homes a little more clutter free), bulky models are not sent home. Instead:

  • We photograph them thoroughly for each student’s portfolio
  • Materials are then reused for future builds
Click Here to See Our Programs

Meet the Founders

Brooke Holiday

Brooke founded Brooklyn Builders Studio with the goal of building a creative, inclusive, and welcoming space where community members can explore ideas, take creative risks, and build confidence as designers.

She brings two decades of experience in human capital and operations across Hong Kong, London, and New York, building teams and programs in fast‑moving global environments. She also served as Treasurer of Old First Nursery School in Park Slope and continues on its Advisory Board.

Benjamin Hollberg

Benjamin is a licensed architect and educator with a career dedicated to making design accessible, engaging, and community‑centered. He is the founding principal of Hollberg Architecture PLLC, a Brooklyn‑based practice specializing in circular‑economy design solutions grounded in research, site specificity, and a commitment to public‑minded architecture.

As an educator, Benjamin has taught undergraduate and graduate architecture at Parsons School of Design, The City College of New York, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and The University of Hong Kong. His teaching focuses on conceptual design, drawing, model‑making, and the joy of hands‑on exploration — all of which shape the curriculum at Brooklyn Builders Studio.

Brooke and Benjamin live in Brooklyn with their two children and their dog, Yuki.