The Insider: A New Townhouse in Cobble Hill That Feels Both Traditional and Modern

A comprehensive renovation project was undertaken for a landmarked five-story brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, prompted by the structural deterioration of its rear wall. The initial repair evolved into a complete top-to-bottom transformation, encompassing significant architectural and interior design changes. The project involved the installation of a new three-story wood and glass window system on the rear facade, enhancing natural light and views. The formerly low-ceilinged attic space was converted into a skylit home office, complete with a kitchenette and access to a newly created roof terrace. The restoration work paid careful attention to preserving historical elements, including the meticulous repair and reinstallation of original lacy plasterwork and other intricate historic details throughout the house. Concurrently, the homeowner, an interior designer, curated an entirely new color palette and furnishings scheme, blending modern aesthetics with the home's 19th-century character. Built in 1850 in the Anglo-Italianate style, the house is part of a unique architectural complex where three row houses are designed to appear as a single, larger mansion. This architectural type, characterized by its approximately 16-foot width and absence of a high stoop, is a notable, albeit rare, feature of the neighborhood. The English basement primarily serves for storage, with utilities entering at this level. The first floor, historically the staff and kitchen area, was reconfigured to improve light, airflow, and sightlines. The front room was preserved as a cozy sitting area with an arched window, while the kitchen and dining area were relocated to the middle and rear, offering expansive views of the backyard. The elegant second floor, known as the _piano nobile_, features a grand staircase leading to a central hall that separates a formal living room at the front from a more casual family room at the rear. The decorative plaster crown moldings on this level were restored, and the staircase was reinforced and given new treads. The third and fourth floors are dedicated to bedrooms, with a primary suite on the third floor and children's rooms on the fourth. The primary suite's layout was reconfigured so that it is entered from a generous hallway in the center of the house, rather than at one end, which is typical for row houses. A fitted closet connects the bedroom and bathroom, with the two-level bathroom design dictated by plumbing considerations. Children's rooms and bathrooms on the fourth floor were designed with vibrant patterns and colors. In the former attic space, The Brooklyn Studio created a functional penthouse study and a central kitchenette/bar area that opens onto an outdoor deck with a brick fireplace. An oval glass insert in the kitchenette floor allows natural light from the new skylight and sliding glass doors to extend to the floor below. The kitchen features a custom brass stove hood, a marble backsplash with prominent veining, and hand-blown glass knobs by Danish artist Nina Norgaard on the stained oak millwork. The design prioritized an airy feel by minimizing upper cabinetry. Throughout the renovation, existing floor structures were maintained where possible, with new parquet veneer flooring laid over original surfaces in some areas to preserve the underlying structure. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #TheBrooklynStudio #HomeOffice #Kitchenette #RoofTerrace #StructuralRenovation

This article details the interior design transformation of a unique, stoopless turn-of-the-20th-century brick and limestone row house in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The project was spearheaded by Park Slope-based interior designer Jennifer Morris of JMorris Design, who executed a comprehensive renovation and redecoration. The house, notable for its well-preserved original features like woodwork, plaster decoration, and diamond-paned leaded windows, presented a foundation for a glamorous modern aesthetic tailored to the homeowners, a family with teenage twins and a younger son. The residence spans four floors. The ground level features two entrances, leading to a reception room and a service entrance that opens into a hallway, playroom, guest bedroom, and bath. The main living area, referred to as the piano nobile, is located on the high-ceilinged second floor. The third floor accommodates the primary bedroom, a newly designed luxurious bath, and a sitting room, while the children's bedrooms are situated on the top floor. A significant part of the renovation focused on the kitchen, previously a long, dark galley-style space with a single small window, located in a rear extension off the formal dining room. Mark Pennell of Pennell Design redesigned the kitchen within its existing footprint, dramatically improving its character by integrating large expanses of window glass. Jennifer Morris then infused the space with a glamorous aesthetic, blending new acquisitions with existing client pieces. The homeowner's preference for 'Miami energy' — playful, iridescent, and shiny elements — guided some of the decorating choices. Throughout the house, Morris meticulously blended modern design with the home's historic integrity. In the downstairs reception room, elaborate plaster relief panels and parquet flooring were in excellent condition, complemented by new marble tile flooring in the vestibule. The reception area features Philip Jeffries grasscloth wall covering with a subtle sheen, and charcoal paint for moldings and trim. An existing powder room was updated with a water-jet-cut mosaic stone floor, porcelain tile wainscoting, and a compact corner sink. Upstairs, a landing area between the living and dining rooms showcases Trove wallpaper with a falling feather motif, a Julian Chichester console, and a client-owned glass chandelier, alongside an unexpectedly successful IKEA rug. The front parlor, or living room, was envisioned as a serene space with a powder blue and cream color palette, featuring a scalloped pendant light and sofa from Mitchell Gold Bob Williams, blue velvet armchairs with chrome legs, and a modern coffee table from Modern Interiors of Brooklyn. Benjamin Moore’s Mineral Ice provided a silvery cast to moldings against white walls. The dining room stands out as the only area where the original woodwork, including built-in cabinets, a coffered ceiling, and leaded glass pocket doors, was preserved unpainted. This decision maintained a historical contrast to other areas where previously painted wood was refreshed. A round white table from Modern Interiors of Brooklyn was chosen to enhance light, and a Schumacher patterned wallpaper added subtle texture. An original undulating window seat under leaded glass windows received a custom cushion. The primary bedroom was updated with Benjamin Moore’s Veil Cream on moldings, while the adjacent sitting room was furnished with existing client pieces. The primary bath was completely renovated to create a sparkling environment using a mix of glossy and matte glass tiles, with a door leading to a roof terrace. Two top-floor children's baths were also fully redesigned, featuring graphic tile floors and glimmering half-walls with tiles from Nemo, and a utility-style double sink from Kohler. The teenage daughter's bedroom was designed to be feminine yet bold, incorporating magenta accents on the lower walls and carpet tiles for easy future updates. #InteriorDesign #ParkSlope #HomeRenovation #JMorrisDesign #ModernGlamour #KitchenRemodel #BathroomDesign #HistoricHome #BrooklynInteriors

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

The article details the extensive renovation of a Boerum Hill townhouse, spearheaded by Keren Richter and Thomas Richter of White Arrow, an architectural design firm. The project, referred to as Phase II, commenced after the homeowners had already initiated significant structural work, including cellar excavation, a 10-foot rear extension on the lower two levels, and the installation of a new rooftop bulkhead and decking. Despite these initial efforts, the interior remained largely a blank slate, requiring comprehensive design and decorative interventions. White Arrow's involvement began when the house was still undergoing fundamental construction, such as jackhammering in the cellar and brickwork. The firm took on the crucial role of managing the project, overseeing all new details, finishes, custom millwork, and the entire decorating plan. Their objective was to instill a sense of historical character and refined luxury into the newly configured spaces. This involved meticulously designing and integrating elements that evoked a traditional aesthetic, including crown molding, baseboards, doors, flooring, arches, stair rails, niches, and borders—all conceived and implemented by White Arrow. Few original details were salvageable, notably some marble mantels and vintage shutters. The design philosophy aimed for a chic and elevated atmosphere, achieved through a curated blend of different eras and a harmonious material palette predominantly featuring walnut, black, and navy. The aesthetic balances sophisticated elegance with a degree of approachability, avoiding an overly formal or casual feel. Throughout the residence, artwork was carefully selected by White Arrow, with a particular focus on 20th-century vintage paintings, further enhancing the eclectic yet cohesive design. Practical improvements included replacing all windows with new ones sourced from Historical Windows of New York, and designing a new stair railing and newel post inspired by 19th-century styles. Key areas of the home showcase White Arrow's design intent. The front parlor, for instance, features a custom blue velvet sofa designed by White Arrow, influenced by Jean-Michel Frank, alongside vintage armchairs and contemporary tables from Pinch. A 1917 Wiener Werkstatte chandelier by Josef Hoffmann adds historical depth. The parlor level maintains a cohesive color scheme that unifies the spaces through new flat arched openings. The central kitchen boasts handmade ceramic tiles from Pratt + Larson, a Lacanche stove, and custom cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore's Newburg Green. A custom stove hood and distinctive pendant lights from Apparatus complement the design. Breccia Capraia marble with dramatic purple veining is used for the backsplash and countertops, with chamfered edges on the island to prevent a monolithic appearance. The dining room, located in a new extension with a glass wall overlooking the garden, continues the rich color narrative with a green leather credenza and walnut furnishings. A custom walnut dining table by White Arrow is paired with 1970s Italian leather chairs by Tobia Scarpa, illuminated by a modern Sketch Light pendant from Anna Karlin. The second-floor library/sitting room includes custom built-ins by White Arrow and opens onto a deck. Furnishings in this space are primarily vintage, including a re-issue of a Jacques Adnet coffee table. Bedrooms feature carefully chosen pieces, such as vintage cherry wood beds by Ole Wanscher in the children's room. Bathrooms are equally considered, with the primary bath featuring a custom oak and marble vanity and gold-tone accents, and a children's bath enlivened by striped wall tiles, a yellow pendant light, and vintage-style fixtures. The exterior design extends to the backyard, where hardscaping by White Arrow incorporates bluestone and cobblestones, and plantings are by Verru Design, completing the transformation of the Boerum Hill townhouse into a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. #BoerumHill #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #WhiteArrow #HistoricalCharm #ModernLuxury #CustomMillwork #VintageFurnishings #BrooklynRealEstate

Architects Andrea Fisk and Jess Hinshaw of Boerum Hill-based Shapeless Studio were tasked with transforming a newly acquired, two-bedroom condo in a partially completed building into a functional, inviting, and comfortable home for a young family. The condo, located on the periphery of the brownstone belt, presented a raw, unfinished space, but also boasted several appealing features, including a spacious outdoor terrace with city views, an attractive pre-installed developer's kitchen, and wide plank floors. The architects commenced their work by introducing a subtle texture to the walls using a limewash finish. A significant aspect of the renovation involved the design and installation of custom cabinetry for every room, crafted by ABC Millwork in Gowanus. The design philosophy for the cabinetry drew inspiration from the warm wood tones present in the existing kitchen. White oak was chosen for the units in the entry and living room, while walnut was selected for the primary bedroom. The built-ins in the primary bedroom, in particular, evoke a Japanese aesthetic, reflecting the architects' preference for simple, elegant, and well-organized design principles that resonate with Japanese design. The newly acquired furniture adheres to a chic modern style, featuring plush and comfortable fabrics. Notable pieces include a Kelston sectional sofa from Design Within Reach and vibrant orange Bollo chairs by Fogia. The living room seamlessly connects to the outdoor terrace, which was lushly landscaped by Elevations Landscape Design + Build using only container plantings. The millwork throughout the condo was designed with a strong emphasis on functionality and "program." The white oak unit in the entry hall serves multiple purposes, incorporating open and closed storage, a shoe bench, coat hooks, and display space. In the living room, a formerly blank wall was transformed into a multi-functional area, featuring seating, additional storage, a media center, a bar, and an ethanol Eco-Smart fireplace that does not require traditional piping or flues. The architects also custom-designed a dining table, made by Brooklyn-based Ivory Build, to perfectly accommodate four to six individuals. This is complemented by Tokyo dining chairs from Bensen, a pendant lamp by Astep x Gino Sarfatti, and a textured rug. The primary bedroom features gleaming cabinetry crafted from highly figured walnut, chosen to create a more subdued and moody atmosphere. This millwork encompasses a built-in headboard, integrated side tables, bookshelves, dresser drawers, and an elaborate closet. The closet's design is particularly noteworthy, featuring a slatted sliding door inspired by Japanese aesthetics. For the nursery, furniture was sourced from Crate & Kids. The outdoor terrace is outfitted with specific outdoor furniture and container plantings, selected by Gowanus-based Elevations Design + Build, to ensure continuous blooms throughout the season. The project successfully transformed a raw condo into a character-rich, comfortable, and highly functional home. #BoerumHill #CondoDesign #CustomMillwork #ShapelessStudio #InteriorDesign #ModernFurnishings #BrooklynRealEstate #FunctionalDesign #JapaneseAesthetic

This article details a significant renovation project undertaken by Shakespeare, Gordon, Vlado: Architects (SGVA) on a late 19th-century, four-story townhouse in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two young children, sought to address the common challenge of disconnectivity across multiple floors in townhouse living, aiming for better spatial interaction between family members and access to the garden. Architect Amy Shakespeare's innovative solution involved a complete gut renovation and a re-imagining of the internal floor levels in the lower half of the building. The redesign involved lowering the floor plate at the back of the house to create a sunken living room directly accessible at garden level. The kitchen's floor was also lowered, reducing the number of steps from the entry level and improving connectivity to both the entrance and the garden. This extensive structural modification was feasible due to the building's prior state, which consisted of four rundown apartments with no original features deemed worth preserving. The upper floors, the third and fourth, maintain a more traditional layout, accommodating a master bedroom, children's rooms, and additional bedrooms for visiting family. These floors also feature dedicated spaces for entertainment, such as movie-watching and video gaming nooks. Throughout the home, the design incorporates a predominantly white color palette, punctuated by bold, jewel-toned wall colors and dynamic textile patterns, adding vibrancy to the interiors. Upon entering, a vestibule and mudroom are located at the front, leading to a double-height library situated centrally in the floor plan. This library is distinguished by a striking wall of teal-colored bookshelves. Sustainable materials were a key consideration in the project, with extensive use of 100 percent certified wood, including fumed oak for the flooring. The double-height central space is illuminated by a Triad 15 light fixture from Apparatus. The sunken living room, furnished with a sectional sofa from B&B Italia, offers direct access to the garden. Visual transparency between spaces is enhanced by a glass panel incorporated into the kitchen's wood railing. The kitchen features a blue Lacanche range with nickel trim, a high-priority item for the clients, along with appliances from Sub-Zero/Wolf. The painted wood cabinetry was custom-built by the general contractor, Fulton Contracting. Nancy Angel, a Brooklyn-based designer, was responsible for all custom upholstery, including the dining area banquette adjacent to the kitchen. From the kitchen, an unobstructed view extends towards the front of the house, across the top of the library. Tempered glass and steel were used for the new stair railings, contributing to the open and modern aesthetic. The top floor includes a black-painted TV room, which also accommodates a queen-size platform bed for guests. On the exterior, the architects created a geometric composition on the blown-out back wall using standard-sized Marvin windows. Despite the lot being fully built out, a balcony was added by indenting the back wall to form a small terrace. The backyard was designed by Joanna Pertz Landscape Architecture, featuring a play area with a sandbox and swings at its far end. The project successfully transformed a multi-level townhouse into a cohesive and family-friendly living space. #ParkSlope #TownhouseRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyLiving #SGVA #FloorLevelModification #SustainableMaterials #BrooklynRealEstate

In Park Slope, New York, a townhouse renovation blends the old with the new, focusing on the transformation of a client's childhood home into a contemporary and functional space for a young, artistic family. Ethan Pomerance of Ethan Pomerance Architecture was tasked with this challenge, aiming to infuse new life while respecting the home's original Romanesque Revival architectural style. The design subtly weaves in echoes of the home's exterior and traditional downstairs elements with fresh interpretations, maintaining an airy feel. The project held significant sentimental value for the client, a filmmaker, who desired a vibrant space to raise her family above her mother, a Renaissance art historian. This artistic environment necessitated a design that honored historical elements while introducing modern, unique features. The renovation of the kitchen, which was originally the client's childhood bedroom, required innovative solutions to accommodate ample storage and cooking needs, as well as a dining table, despite the presence of an original chimney stack and a pathway to a terrace. Pomerance embraced these structural challenges, allowing the chimney breast to dictate the placement of the cooktop and sink, thus preserving its form and integrating it as a visual and functional anchor. To maintain the room's loftiness and volume, upper kitchen cabinets were reconceived as horizontal, shorter, and wider elements, hanging on the chimney stack like a tree trunk to create a sense of verticality. These sculptural cabinets feature sliding doors with blue geometric forms that act as functional elements and artistic statements, creating a full, dark circle when closed. The material palette combines traditional architecture with modern elements. Speckled terrazzo countertops, chosen from Concrete Collaborative, incorporate various colors present in the kitchen, tying together warm wooden parquet flooring, plaster walls, and the oat, white, and blue cabinet scheme. This selection aims to make the kitchen appear to 'grow out of the floor,' ensuring a radiant and blended look without feeling sterile, and augmenting the natural light. Exposed ductwork was utilized to eliminate soffits and preserve plaster crown moldings, adding to the room's dynamic shapes and forms. Playfulness and color were crucial to the design, with different colored cabinet frames and unique cabinet pulls adding mindfulness and a sense of mystery to everyday activities. The use of soft geometry, like the half-ellipse vent hood, introduces personality and meaning, symbolizing a balance of power. The most striking feature is the Delft tile backsplash, which Pomerance transformed into a modern, surreal collage by cutting and arranging traditional blue and white tiles, adding a storybook quality with animal and nature scenes. Subtle details, such as squiggle handles, further enhance the space's character, blending functionality with a playful aesthetic. The overall design successfully marries historical reverence with contemporary artistry, creating a unique and personal kitchen. #TownhouseRenovation #KitchenDesign #DelftTiles #ModernKitchen #ArchitecturalPreservation #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoCountertops #GeometricForms #ParkSlope

This article details the transformation of a new-build property into a characterful family home with a country-style charm, achieved through careful planning and a keen eye for design. The owners, who acquired the house as a blank canvas due to its practical benefits and ideal location near family, the countryside, and transport links, embarked on a decade-long journey to personalize their space. They focused on injecting personality into the neutral scheme, ensuring the home reflected their tastes while accommodating their growing family, including a new daughter and two dogs. The kitchen-diner, though small, was designed for both functionality and intimacy, facilitating family interaction during meal preparation and hosting cozy dinner parties. The owners introduced red and green accents to add character and warmth to the otherwise neutral palette. The red provided richness, while the green offered a calming, natural balance. To delineate the dining area, they installed wall paneling and added open shelving made from repurposed scaffolding planks, which not only offered practical storage but also served as a canvas for decorative displays, allowing for personal touches and regular aesthetic updates. The original kitchen lacked personality, prompting a renovation that aimed to blend contemporary style with classic country charm without a complete overhaul. This involved incorporating zellige tiles, replacing standard door fronts with traditional Shaker kitchen cupboard doors, and swapping a stainless-steel sink for a ceramic one. To conceal non-integrated large appliances, green linen curtains were used, contributing to a softer, less cluttered look. The chosen paint for the doors was Farrow & Ball's School House White Estate Eggshell, complemented by angled spotlights in Antique Brass to enhance the desired aesthetic. In the living room, the goal was to create a cozy, multi-functional space, as it was the most frequented area. Wall paneling was introduced to add texture, depth, and a cozier feel to the plain walls. The room was further enriched with layers of natural materials, varied textures, and warm, earthy tones, transforming it into a comfortable and inviting environment. The primary seating in this room is an Otto medium RHF chaise sofa in Taupe Brushed linen Cotton. The bedroom showcases a bolder approach to color, utilizing Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster for walls and wardrobes to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. A luxurious dark green velvet headboard was incorporated to add richness and elegance, making the bed a focal point without significant expense. The unexpected pairing of pink and green hues was a deliberate choice to infuse fresh energy and dynamism into the narrow space, reflecting the owner's personal style and achieving a boutique hotel aesthetic for a calm retreat. Practical elements like sheer linen curtains were chosen for affordability, softness, and diffused natural light. The home office was designed as a calm and creative space, featuring a soft color palette and a blend of different wood tones and grains. This approach aimed to add warmth, texture, and a balanced, natural feel, ensuring a conducive environment for work. For the compact bathroom, instead of a costly renovation, simple updates were made, including a bespoke curtain, vintage-framed artwork, mirrors, and soft towels to introduce color and texture, making the space more engaging. Thoughtful styling is evident throughout the home, particularly with organized living room shelves that display books and objets d’art. Books are often arranged with their spines hidden to maintain an artful and consistent look. Built-in cabinetry, combining Ikea units and MDF, provides both lower storage for children's toys and open shelving for decorative items, adding character and functionality to the room. The daughter's bedroom was designed to be adaptable as she grows, maintaining a neutral scheme with pops of color and playful touches, while incorporating functional and charming storage solutions like peg rails for coats and bags, encouraging tidiness and accessibility for toy storage. Overall, the home demonstrates how a new-build can be transformed into a deeply personalized and character-filled space through deliberate design choices and the strategic use of color, texture, and materials. #NewBuildDesign #CountryStyleHome #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KitchenDinerIdeas #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomDesign #HomeOffice #FamilyHome

This article details the transformation of an 1880s brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, from a dilapidated four-unit apartment building into a spacious and modern single-family home with a distinct farmhouse aesthetic. Children's clothing designer Odette Williams and her spouse Nick Law embarked on this extensive renovation project after purchasing the property, which had been vacant for years and was in a state of disrepair. The primary goal was to gut the entire structure and reimagine the living spaces to suit a contemporary family lifestyle while preserving some of the home's original character. The renovation began with the expertise of architect Lorraine Bonaventura. A significant structural change involved blowing out the back wall of the house. This modification allowed for the installation of a 12-foot-wide set of glass accordion doors on the parlor level, effectively opening the indoor living space to the outdoors and enhancing natural light and ventilation. This design decision contributed significantly to the open and airy feel that the owners desired. Inside, the project involved uncovering and salvaging original features. Layers of old linoleum were removed, revealing wide pine floorboards that were carefully stored and later reinstalled. The home's original staircase, along with its handrails and balusters, was also preserved and integrated into the new design, maintaining a connection to the building's historical roots. The kitchen became a focal point of the renovation, designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing with a farmhouse flair. A centerpiece of this space is a 500-pound AGA stove, which required significant effort to install, including the use of four movers and additional structural supports to accommodate its weight. The stove was strategically placed amidst IKEA cabinets, demonstrating a blend of high-end elements with more accessible design choices. This approach reflects Odette Williams' philosophy of incorporating one significant 'prop' to elevate the overall design, drawing from her background in theater design. The upper levels of the brownstone were also thoughtfully designed. The master bedroom exemplifies minimalism, furnished with only essential pieces such as a bed, side tables, and a rug. This simplicity creates a serene and uncluttered environment. For their four children, daughter Opal and son Ned share a room featuring bunk beds, optimizing space and creating a shared experience. The children's upstairs bathroom includes a distinctive trough sink, sourced from Demolition Depot in Harlem, adding a unique touch to a practical space. Overall, the renovation successfully converted a neglected multi-unit building into a cohesive and inviting single-family residence. The design blends modern open-plan living with elements of farmhouse style, achieved through careful architectural interventions, thoughtful material choices, and the integration of unique fixtures and fittings. The project highlights how strategic design decisions and a clear vision can transform a challenging property into a dream home. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeTransformation #HistoricPreservation

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a 190-year-old Federal-style townhouse in Tribeca, Manhattan, which was originally constructed in 1828. The house, initially a residence for a genteel family, transformed into a poultry and egg shop during the area's wholesale produce market era, and later, after the market relocated, was one of nine homes granted individual landmark status by the Landmark Preservation Commission in the 1960s to prevent demolition. A previous owner, an artist, lived in the house for nearly 40 years before it was purchased by a new pair of artists who embarked on a significant remodel. The challenge for the new owners and their team, architect Susan Yun of Yun Architecture and interior designer Penelope August, was that while the exterior remained largely unchanged and landmarked, the interior had lost all original features. Their approach was not to recreate historical accuracy or adopt a modern interpretation, but rather to create a layered, evolving aesthetic that combined vintage and modern elements, reflecting the passage of time. This involved incorporating salvaged materials, antique finds, and contemporary designs to achieve a unique, lived-in feel. The exterior restoration was meticulous, focusing on preserving the landmarked facade. Energy-efficient wooden windows were installed to match the original design, and a new porch with ironwork railings was crafted, inspired by neighboring buildings but meeting modern code requirements. Inside, the design team established a historic-appearing background with elements like plaster crown molding, wide-plank salvaged wood floors from Reclamation Lumber, and newly designed handrails and balusters with classic lines. The owners actively participated in the sourcing process, finding doorknobs and some light fixtures on eBay, and purchasing antique and vintage sinks, bathtubs from Big Reuse, wallpaper from Secondhand Rose, and doors from Demolition Depot. Modern interventions include sleek limestone fireplace mantels (reactivating all four wood-burning fireplaces), a spacious kitchen with colorful terrazzo countertops by Precast Terrazzo, and a Jean Prouvé-inspired built-in designed by August. A key architectural modification involved relocating the first-floor staircase from the back to the center of the house, which facilitated the creation of a generously sized kitchen with an outdoor connection. The kitchen features purple-gray Shaker-style cabinets with glass pulls, a vibrant mustard-yellow Lacanche range, and custom terrazzo countertops made with recycled glass chips. Lighting fixtures were a mix of eBay finds and custom pieces by Penelope August and Andrew Hughes. In contrast to the modern kitchen, a study was designed to evoke a more traditional ambiance, featuring antique wallpaper, a wood mantel recreated after an unfortunate theft, and modern art and furniture to avoid a museum-like feel. The powder room exemplifies the eclectic approach with electric blue hex tiles by Fireclay Tile, a vintage pedestal sink from Demolition Depot, and unique sconces repurposed from an optometrist's shop. A midcentury-inspired shelving unit designed by August, with cork shelves and orange cabinet fronts, displays the owners’ diverse collections. Working with vintage and salvaged materials required considerable patience and effort due to necessary repairs and size adjustments, but the result was a highly customized and authentic interior. The owners expressed a deep appreciation for the history of New York City and viewed their role as caretakers of this historic property, embracing the restrictions that came with renovating a landmarked building. #TribecaTownhouse #HistoricRenovation #EclecticDesign #LandmarkPreservation #InteriorDesign #SalvagedMaterials #VintageFinds #ModernInterventions #NewYorkCityHistory

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

This blog post details the transformation of a three-story brick row house in South Slope, Brooklyn, into a bright and functional single-family home. The owners, a young family, sought to address the common issue of dark interiors found in many brownstones and desired additional living space. Architect Philipp von Dalwig of vonDALWIG Architecture spearheaded the renovation, which involved a significant gut-renovation and the construction of a two-story rear extension. The project began with a comprehensive demolition, removing a garden apartment and nearly all original interior structures, while preserving the main staircase. All mechanical systems were updated. The core of the renovation focused on maximizing natural light and expanding the living area. The new two-story extension features larger window and door openings, complemented by an array of skylights. These design elements effectively channel light into the central areas of the building, eliminating the previously dark ambiance. The front entry of the house remains on the parlor level, leading to a bay-windowed living room at the front. A central library and playroom, equipped with a book-lined niche and built-in seating, caters to the homeowners' two small children. The dining room and kitchen are situated on the upper level of the new duplex extension. A notable design feature is an opening in the floor towards the rear, which creates a double-height, multi-purpose space that connects visually to the garden level below. Pivot doors offer direct access to the garden from this lower level. The garden level also includes a guest room and bath at the front, along with a media room. The upper floors house the family bedrooms, a laundry area, and two new bathrooms. A deck off the master bedroom sits atop the new addition, providing outdoor space. Material selections and specific features are highlighted throughout the article. White engineered oak from LV Wood was used for the flooring. The kitchen, visible from the library/play niche, incorporates appliances primarily from Miele and pendant lights from Apparatus. A powder room is discreetly placed behind flush refrigerator and pantry storage. The kitchen's center island is crafted from Marini Marni, a natural stone from Italy, sourced through ABC Stone. The opening in the floor, which creates the double-height space, is secured with netting similar to that used for soccer goals, set into custom steel rails. Pendant lights from Flos illuminate this area. The exterior of the extension features a subtle geometric pattern applied to the stucco with a trowel, designed to create varying visual effects with the changing sunlight. The double-height space downstairs is described as a "robust functional space" suitable for entertaining and art projects, with its floor and custom elements, including a rectangular sink, made from the same terrazzo-like Italian stone as the kitchen counter. The downstairs media room includes storage beneath a stone-topped seating ledge and a wood-burning fireplace. The project successfully transformed a dark, traditional row house into a bright, spacious, and highly functional modern home, addressing the clients' desire for increased natural light and additional square footage through thoughtful architectural design and material choices. #TownhouseRenovation #SouthSlope #ArchitecturalDesign #RearExtension #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #BrooklynRealEstate #ResidentialArchitecture

This article details the design and aesthetic of a newly constructed American farmhouse located in a rural area outside Los Angeles. The homeowners, who previously resided in a busy Southern Californian beach community, sought to return to their roots in a serene setting. Architect Erik Evens of Evens Architects designed the house to embody the traditions of American farmhouses, emphasizing comfort, family life, and outdoor living. The property was strategically situated atop a hill to maximize views of the Santa Monica Mountains and was carefully planned around existing mature oak trees, which are protected in California. The architectural design features a central Great Hall housing formal living and dining areas, flanked by adjoining wings for casual family spaces and bedrooms. This layout creates the illusion of a home that has evolved over time. The central two-story section is clad in white clapboard with a gable roof and dormers, while the single-story wings are covered in cedar shingle. Reflecting Southern California's outdoor lifestyle, the back of the house includes a spacious veranda for al fresco living and dining, a swimming pool, a large pool terrace, and an outdoor fireplace. Interior designer Joe Lucas of Lucas Studio, Inc., was commissioned to craft a classic interior with a contemporary touch. The design drew inspiration from the clients' desire for a more traditional East Coast style, with a color scheme initiated by their preference for blue and green. These colors were chosen to reflect the youthful, modern family living in the home and the surrounding California hills. The entry hall incorporates a layered scheme with antique furniture and a salon art wall to enhance the sense of a home that has grown over time. The family room boasts a lofty barn truss ceiling, designed for comfort and ease of entertaining a large extended family. Seating includes a plush sofa, armchairs, and pouffes. Classic furniture and floral patterns nod to the rural location. The kitchen also features a barn truss ceiling, with wooden cladding, elegant powder blue cabinetry, a breakfast bar, and a focal wooden island, creating a homey, New England farmhouse atmosphere. The breakfast room showcases hand-painted wallpaper by Fromental above period-style paneling, complemented by cane-back French-style chairs and a Bunny Williams Home table. The formal dining room, situated in the Great Hall, features pink leather dining chairs, a large table, and a statement pendant light. The library was designed as a central hub for family life, serving as a pathway to the bedroom wing. It features a cozy palette of deep, smoky colors and an exposed stone fireplace wall. A large button-back sofa and comfortable cane chairs provide inviting reading nooks. The main bedroom includes a William Yeoward gray oak four-poster bed, inspired by traditional Mallorcan designs, and an Alex Conroy Textiles fabric pillow. The daughter's bedroom features a pastel palette, a traditional white bobbin bed, and a white console table, designed to age gracefully with her. The daughter's bathroom continues the classic, feminine theme with a dusky pink washstand and period-style faucets. #WestCoastNewbuild #AmericanFarmhouse #ClassicInterior #EastCoastVibe #RuralLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #FamilyHome #CaliforniaDesign

This article details the journey of property developers Scotty Bemelen and Eliza McCarthy in building their contemporary home, named Cora, in Red Hill, Victoria. The couple, both under 30, embarked on this project in 2018, demonstrating a flexible and open-minded approach despite their youth. They secured a 1000-square-meter block with a north-facing aspect and inspiring views, formerly an apple orchard, which informed the home's design. Local draftsman Rod Hannah initially drew up plans, creating a split-level design to maximize the natural slope of the land and views. The home was designed with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen and dining area upstairs overlooking a private front yard and resort-style pool. Given the couple's penchant for entertaining, the design incorporated ample spaces for hosting guests and considerable storage. The construction phase, supervised by Scotty as both builder and project manager, lasted approximately 16 months. During this period, the couple sought additional creative input, bringing in architect Tom Robertson and interior stylist Simone Haag, whose work they had long admired. A key design element is the timber-clad ceiling, adapted by Tom Robertson from a previous project, which extends from the entry into the living, kitchen, and dining areas. To complement the timber, natural stone, black-stained oak, and rammed earth were integrated, allowing the home to blend with its natural surroundings. The couple particularly appreciated the unique aesthetic and tactile quality of rammed earth, working closely with Matt from Rammed Earth Victoria on the color and texture selection for their home's walls. The kitchen, a bold and elegant space designed for entertaining, features a central island bench topped with natural stone, a material echoed in the splashback and a feature shelf. To avoid an all-white appearance, black joinery was incorporated under part of the island, with an open shelf for display. This design maintains an airy feel and allows for seating on both sides, facilitating interaction between hosts and guests during dinner parties. Scotty's craftsmanship is evident in custom elements such as the steel front door, stairwell planter boxes, and the intricate timber ceiling. Simone Haag's contribution as interior stylist was crucial for furnishing and decorating the home. She selected furniture, rugs, artworks, and lighting, aiming for an eclectic mix that reflected the couple's lifestyle and love for color. Simone encouraged boundary-pushing choices, such as the distinctive Terje Ekström ‘Ekstrem’ chair in the living room, which served as a conversation starter and a reflection of the young couple's personality. A floor-to-ceiling, library-style bookshelf filled with art and objects became a focal point in the living space, providing balance and purpose. The couple expressed immense satisfaction upon moving into their completed home, noting a strong emotional attachment to the space they helped create. They were able to host their family for Christmas lunch shortly after moving in, enjoying the poolside setting that reminded them of a Slim Aarons photograph. The article highlights the collaborative success of the project, with contributions from the homeowners, draftsman, architect, and interior stylist, resulting in a unique and personalized contemporary home. #ContemporaryHome #RammedEarthWalls #RedHillVictoria #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorStyling #CustomHomeBuild #NaturalMaterials #OpenPlanLiving #HomeDecor

Studio Fauve, led by interior designer Charlotte Sylvain, undertook a significant renovation of a 19th-century brownstone in Cobble Hill for new homeowners who had recently relocated from London. The property, characterized by its corner lot, two box bay windows, original architectural details, and high ceilings, initially featured dark interior finishes and outdated cabinetry. The objective of the renovation was to revitalize the space using a design philosophy centered on pale neutrals, organic shapes, and natural materials. The project involved extensive new construction and millwork, with Sylvain's husband, architect Shikar Thakur, overseeing these aspects. While the renovation was primarily a cosmetic upgrade, avoiding major structural wall changes, it did include modifications to the floor plan and plumbing system. Several bathrooms were remodeled, including the addition of a new one on the top floor. The kitchen underwent a complete overhaul, featuring custom cabinetry and a distinctive breakfast nook. New white oak flooring was installed throughout the house, and an updated HVAC system was implemented. Specialized paint finishes were also applied to various surfaces. Sylvain's design approach, emphasizing "neutral, natural, simple," guided the selection of new furnishings and lighting for approximately half of the home, complementing existing pieces owned by the clients. The parlor level's entry hall offers views into both the living room and the newly designed kitchen. A custom curved banquette, inspired by contemporary French designer Pierre Yovanovich, was incorporated into one of the box bay windows in the kitchen, paired with an existing Ton table. The kitchen also features luxurious Calacatta gold marble countertops and backsplash, with lighting from Wastberg. In the living room, the homeowners' Minotti sofa was retained, augmented by a new wood chair from Crump and Kwash and a pedestal side table from Burke Decor. Textured rugs and textiles were strategically used to enhance comfort and warmth within the space. The primary bedroom combines a New Works ceiling fixture, a Design Within Reach bed, a bench from The Citizenry, nightstands from Pinch via Future Perfect, an Armadillo rug, and lamps from Ferm Living, all harmonizing with the room's original moldings and fireplace. A new hallway with a walk-in closet connects to the primary bathroom, which features blonde French limestone flooring from Historic Decorative Materials. Shower tiles from Clé are complemented by polished brass fixtures from Studio Ore. The custom vanity is topped with vintage Arabescato marble, and sconces from Rose Uniacke complete the look. The top floor includes a bedroom for the homeowners' teenage daughter, designed with her input, and an adjacent bathroom. The closet in this room features cane bifold doors. The bathroom's walls are finished with tadelakt, a waterproof plaster in a muted green hue, contrasting with retro-style mosaic tiles from Clé. The Watermark tub is fitted with aged brass fixtures from Studio Ore, and an Allied Maker sconce illuminates the vanity. Adjacent to the primary bedroom, a home office features walls painted in Farrow & Ball's Down Pipe, a contemporary desk from Another Country, and a classic Eames chair. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #InteriorDesign #StudioFauve #NeutralDecor #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #KitchenRemodel #BathroomDesign #ArchitecturalDetail