I was in town for a workshop at Mark Morris Dance down the street, and Berni's place was PERFECT — a quiet, peaceful haven, in a beautiful and eclectic building, neat and welcoming. Berni herself was very gracious and welcoming, and lovely to chat with. With three grocery stores nearby (Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Mr. Mango) the fridge and microwave made it very easy for me to supply my own breakfast and lunch on days I had class. The air conditioning worked well even on hot August days, and the daylight in the room was very pretty and relaxing.
One of Berni's suggestions, which I took: it's just a short 15 minute bike ride via Citibike to DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) which has a lovely waterfront park, with gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline under the Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges. The night I rode by, I wished I had more time, because there was a great jazz duo playing, lovely restaurants, etc.