With Sky-High Ceilings, Eye-Catching Colors, and Two Cats, This Brooklyn Residence Is the Ultimate Family Pad

Anne Keenan and Alexis Seeley, a couple living in a 3,000-square-foot Brooklyn townhouse with their 5-year-old son, Leon, and two dogs, decided to hire an interior designer after nearly a decade in their home. The 1899 property had undergone a gut renovation in 2009, led by architect Fred Tang, focusing on structural and infrastructural improvements. While the major renovation addressed issues like mechanicals, a bay window, and plasterwork, the interiors were initially handled by the couple themselves. As their family grew, they found their individual furniture pieces didn't create a cohesive and functional family space. Seeking professional help to optimize their living area, particularly the main-floor living space where the sofa, TV, and dining table coexisted awkwardly, they reached out to Tang, who recommended Barbara Reyes, the new director of interior design for his firm. The established relationship with Tang's team, who were already familiar with the house's structure, was a key factor in their decision. The project commenced just as the pandemic began, leading to unconventional collaboration methods like masked stoop drop-offs for samples and Zoom meetings. A pivotal design decision involved relocating the dining table from a bay window nook to the center of the main floor, paired with a custom-built banquette. This change, initially mocked up by Seeley using existing furniture, significantly improved the space's flow and functionality for both everyday meals and entertaining. Reyes focused on practical solutions for a family-friendly home, incorporating performance fabrics for upholstery and replacing fragile glass tabletops with durable, mirrored plexiglass. Addressing the couple's differing aesthetic preferences—Seeley's love for neon colors and Pop Art versus Keenan's desire for traditional elegance—Reyes successfully blended these styles, introducing a sense of playfulness. The design incorporated unique color pairings, with the couple often choosing unexpected, vibrant options. A recurring blue and pink palette was used throughout the house, with varying shades and saturations, balanced by rich contrasting colors like bold blue in Leon's room and a black dining table. Reyes also integrated Keenan's long-standing collection of miniature food figurines into the living room, displaying them as quirky curios. For Leon's bedroom, the design team fulfilled his request for a "rainbow" room with a Flat Vernacular wall mural featuring a gradient of bright colors, complemented by timeless Vitsoe shelving. A strong emphasis was placed on sustainability and budget, with the couple requesting Reyes to reuse as many existing furnishings as possible. This led to reupholstering comfortable chairs instead of replacing them and repurposing old cabinetry in the couple's bedroom with a modern raspberry hue and gold-flecked wallpaper. The final design created a welcoming, flexible, and durable home that perfectly suits the family's dynamic lifestyle. #BrooklynHome #FamilyLiving #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #HomeRenovation #PerformanceFabrics #SustainableDesign #CustomFurniture #KidsRoomDesign

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

Camille Kubie, after five years in her Brooklyn Heights apartment, sought to transform it into a permanent 'forever home' by combining it with the adjacent unit. She enlisted Shanti Crawford, principal of Indigo & Ochre Design, to achieve a space that reflected her style and felt distinctly enduring. Kubie admired the building's high ceilings, industrial windows, and proximity to the water, elements Crawford aimed to integrate into the redesign. The resulting 2,000-square-foot apartment, characterized by sophistication, femininity, and a touch of zen, became a curated contemporary oasis. Kubie prioritized proper room functionality and a sense of character, opting for a design that incorporated existing pieces rather than entirely new furnishings. Crawford, known for her expertise in vintage rugs and bold approach to furniture, focused on imbuing the new space with soul. Following the architectural modifications that merged the two apartments, Crawford's primary challenge was to establish a new, coherent layout. The design emphasized optimizing natural light flow where possible while also embracing the inherent coziness of darker, windowless areas. Each space was meticulously designed to serve its intended function. Major structural changes included expanding the living room, creating a separate den off the formal dining room, establishing a new master suite with a walk-in closet, and converting the previous master bedroom into a home office. The kitchen underwent a significant overhaul, incorporating a walk-in pantry, cladding countertops and backsplash in carrara marble, and resurfacing existing cabinets, resulting in a serene and light-filled cooking area. While integrating many of Kubie's existing items, such as kitchen stools, a vintage dining table, her bed, and art, most new furniture selections were made with the redesigned space in mind. Crawford often advises clients to invest in key, long-lasting elements like vintage or antique rugs, which serve as anchors for a room's design and character. The designer frequently begins her design process with rugs, using them to establish palettes and tones for the entire space. Initially hesitant about pink, Kubie was ultimately drawn to a rose-toned Oushak rug, which now injects vibrant energy into the living room, complementing its shapely furnishings. Crawford’s design philosophy also involved balancing shapes, creating tension between rectilinear and curvilinear forms. Given the apartment's strong architectural lines, such as windows and soffits, and its predominantly rectangular rooms, elements like blush pink bolsters, curved seating, and sculptural side tables were introduced to provide a harmonious contrast. Kubie particularly enjoys the sculptural yet comfortable white sofa in the living room, describing it as a 'giant cloud' and a prime vantage point for viewing the integrated living, kitchen, and dining areas. For wall decor, a dramatic wallpaper print by Jill Malek, inspired by city lights, was chosen for the dining room, offering a budget-friendly and memorable alternative to expensive art, and incorporating the home's blue, grey, and white palette. In the dining room, a fantastical light fixture crafted from vintage globes, sourced by Crawford from a flea market, adds grace and ease. Crawford emphasizes that statement lighting should be sculpturally appealing and cast flattering light, ideally on a dimmer. Adjacent to the dining room, a quiet parlor with deep jewel tones offers a retreat. Despite initial concerns about the dark colors in the small, windowless room, Kubie embraced its moody atmosphere, valuing it as an escape from the apartment's overall brightness. The master suite features earthy textiles and patterned accents against saturated walls, drawing inspiration from a watercolor landscape painted by Kubie’s grandmother, which served as the dwelling’s original muse, providing a personal and resonant design foundation. #BrooklynHeights #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ShantiCrawford #IndigoAndOchreDesign #VintageRugs #StatementLighting #ZenDesign #ApartmentRedesign

This article highlights a meticulously maintained circa 1850s brownstone located at 37 Schermerhorn Street within the Brooklyn Heights Historic District. The 20-foot-wide row house, which has been under the same ownership for several decades, presents an intriguing combination of preserved original architectural details and a functional, updated layout. The exterior of the brownstone, classified as "eclectic" due to historical remodels, showcases elements of both Greek Revival and Italianate styles. It features a classic brownstone facade, a high stoop, and tall parlor windows adorned with decorative iron balconies. Simple lintels and a bracketed cornice further contribute to its historic charm. Historical records indicate that the property functioned as a boarding house from at least the late 1870s through the 1940s, with advertisements from the 1890s boasting of its fine dining and modern amenities. Currently, the residence is configured as a two-family dwelling, specifically a double duplex, providing versatile living arrangements. The listing photos primarily showcase the lower unit, which encompasses the parlor and garden levels. Upon entering the parlor, notable features include an elegant pier mirror, subtle crown molding, and a wood-burning fireplace equipped with an Italianate marble mantel and contemporary hearth tiles. The rear of the parlor floor houses a dining room, featuring modern built-in bookshelves and integrated storage. Adjacent to the dining area is a U-shaped kitchen, characterized by tile flooring, sleek white slab-fronted cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. A full bathroom is also situated on this level. Descending to the garden level reveals two bedrooms, another full bathroom, and a compact sitting room with a window that provides access to the rear yard. The front bedroom on this level is depicted as a living room in the listing photos and boasts a distinctive dark marble mantel with an iron insert, adding to the home's character. The floor plans for the upper unit illustrate a reversed layout, where the kitchen and dining areas are positioned at the front of the house, while the living room, along with a full bathroom, is located at the rear. This upper unit features a more open-plan design, with a wall of built-in storage serving as a subtle divider. Two additional mantels are present on this floor, including another crafted from dark marble. The listing specifies that one of the two fireplaces in the property is wood-burning. Outdoors, the garden area is enclosed by neighboring brick walls, which are softened by the presence of climbing vines. The space includes a stone patio and designated planting beds along the perimeter, offering a tranquil outdoor retreat. The property has not changed ownership since the 1970s. Historical data from 1962 indicates a market price of $31,500. Today, this historic brownstone is listed for $4.25 million, represented by Cheryl Nielsen-Saaf, Cara Sadownick, and Zoe N. Saaf of Corcoran. #BrooklynHeights #Brownstone #HistoricHome #RealEstate #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalDetails #DoubleDuplex #WoodBurningFireplace #GardenProperty

This blog post details a two-bedroom apartment available for rent in a Brooklyn Heights brownstone, highlighting its unique architectural and design features. The apartment is situated in a sprawling Italianate brownstone at 124 Remsen Street, a building that is exceptionally wide at 37.5 feet and spans through to the block's opposite side, having merged with its former stable. This particular unit, one of 17 in the building, appears to be on a prime floor, featuring a distinctive layout. The living space is a key highlight, characterized by an octagonal, oblong shape located at the rear of the brownstone. It boasts grand plaster details on the ceiling, a marble fireplace, and recently installed wood floors. Three original closets are integrated into the living room, alongside a large window with original shutters that has been converted into a glass double door with a transom, though the listing does not specify if this leads to any outdoor space. A short flight of steps connects this grand living room to the rest of the unit, which seems to occupy the building’s middle wing, offering windows on both sides for natural light. Moving beyond the living room, the unit includes an upstairs dining area featuring striking black and white diamond-patterned flooring, a design element that continues into the adjacent petite galley kitchen. The dining area provides ample space for a table and chairs, supplemented by wall-hung cupboards for storage. The kitchen is equipped with a tall arched window, a few wood cupboards, and a stone counter. While a dishwasher is not explicitly shown in the provided images, there is a designated space for one next to the sink. The apartment comprises two bedrooms, both described as spacious enough to accommodate a queen-sized bed. One of these bedrooms includes a built-in cupboard positioned high on a wall, accessible via a ladder, adding a unique touch. The hallway likely conceals additional closet space and the apartment’s 1.5 bathrooms. The full bathroom presented in the images is in good, functional condition, featuring a tub, white square wall tiles, and a basketweave patterned floor. The brownstone itself, constructed between approximately 1861 and 1879, showcases an imposing exterior with architectural details such as a dentil cornice and a deep entrance door hood, as noted on the Landmarks map. Historical records indicate that the Walter F. Hatch family resided in the brownstone starting in the 1870s, and the building underwent redecoration and stable updates in 1887. The units within the building are all market rate, and this specific apartment, listed by Lior Cohen of Brooklyn Heights Real Estate Inc., is available for occupancy starting in February at a monthly rent of $5,200. The post concludes by posing the question of whether the price is justified given the apartment's features and location. #BrooklynHeights #ApartmentForRent #Brownstone #ItalianateArchitecture #HistoricBuilding #LuxuryRental #InteriorDesign #RealEstate

This article details a recently renovated brownstone located at 541 1st Street in Park Slope, Brooklyn, listed for $7.49 million. The property features eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces, emphasizing a blend of historic preservation and modern upgrades. Lyons Studio professionally designed and furnished the home, highlighting original architectural details like millwork and molding while incorporating contemporary elements. The parlor level, boasting 10-foot-high ceilings, welcomes visitors with a wallpapered entryway featuring custom harlequin marble tile and includes a restored pier mirror and ornate banisters. The formal living room on this level is bright, characterized by new herringbone flooring, a spacious layout with a sitting area under large bay windows, a unique chandelier, and restored stained glass transom windows. A functional fireplace divides the living area from the dining space, which accommodates a large table. The rear of this level houses a generously sized kitchen equipped with new skylights, Calacatta marble backsplash and counters, an integrated Sub Zero refrigerator, and an eat-in banquette suitable for dining or a work-from-home setup. Sliding doors connect the kitchen to a new iron deck that leads down to the garden. The upper floor is dedicated to the primary bedroom suite, a sun-drenched space with custom lighting, bay windows overlooking the tree-lined street, a decorative fireplace, and elegant moldings. The en-suite bathroom, separated from the bedroom by a walk-in closet, offers a double vanity, custom marble and tile-work, a freestanding tub, and a spa shower. This floor also includes a small study. The top-level accommodates three additional bedrooms, a Jack and Jill bathroom, another study, and a washer-dryer. The garden floor, accessible via its own entrance, is designed for family-friendly use. It includes a mudroom, a laundry room, and an additional bedroom with a full bath. An extension on this level provides ample space for a family room, complete with a wet bar, wine fridge, and dishwasher, making it suitable for entertainment. The 20-foot-wide home features a private outdoor garden, accessible from both the garden level and the kitchen deck. Its location offers convenient access to Prospect Park, with commercial amenities on Seventh Avenue a block west, and Grand Army Plaza and the Brooklyn Public Library’s main branch to the north. Deeded parking is also available for separate purchase. The listing is managed by Jessica Buchman of The Corcoran Group. #BrooklynBrownstone #ParkSlope #LuxuryRealEstate #HistoricHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NYCRealEstate #FamilyFriendlyHome

The article details the redesign of a 1920s Mediterranean Revival home in Bronxville, focusing specifically on the living room. The family of four, upon purchasing the home, sought to restore its original architectural details that had been removed by previous owners, while also creating a family-friendly environment. Designer Alexandra Denburg of M&P Design Group, in collaboration with contractor Michael Guttilla, spearheaded this transformation, aiming to reintroduce Mediterranean elements and revitalize the space. Denburg's design approach for the living room emphasizes a careful selection of furniture shapes and materials to create a balanced and cohesive aesthetic. She strategically paired a square sofa with a curved one, demonstrating a mindful consideration of how different forms interact within a space. The choice of fabrics and materials was guided by both functionality and visual appeal. For instance, a large, fully upholstered sofa was complemented by a smaller, leg-exposed upholstered sofa, and two armchairs with decorative metal frames were placed on the opposite side of a wooden coffee table. This combination ensures visual interest and variety. Central to Denburg's material palette for the living room were woods, stones, metals, clays, and various fabrics. She explains her design philosophy by highlighting the importance of juxtaposing different textures and finishes—such as polished against raw stones, soft velvets with chunky knits, and woods with diverse surface textures. Mixed metals were also incorporated to add depth. This layering of textures and materials is crucial, especially within a monochromatic scheme, as it prevents the space from appearing flat and instead introduces tactile interest. Architectural details were also a significant focus of the redesign. To reinstate some of the home's original character, Denburg installed ceiling beams. These beams serve a dual purpose: they visually heighten the room by extending sightlines and provide a contrasting element to the dark wood flooring, enhancing a neutral color palette. The fireplace was another area of significant renovation. Denburg removed the wall jut behind it, creating a flush surface for the new fireplace, and added an angled surround to further contribute to the room's perceived height. Moravian star lights were installed, hanging alongside strong linear beams, exemplifying Denburg's eclectic approach to furnishing styles. She states that she always incorporates a mix of styles, regardless of the overarching aesthetic, to achieve a dynamic and engaging design. The overall transformation of the Bronxville living room by Alexandra Denburg successfully marries the restoration of historical architectural details with modern, family-friendly design principles, utilizing a rich interplay of shapes, textures, and materials to create an elegant and inviting space. #BronxvilleLivingRoom #HomeRedesign #InteriorDesign #AlexandraDenburg #MediterraneanRevival #FamilyFriendlyDesign #TextureAndMaterial #ArchitecturalRestoration

Alexandra Barker, principal of Barker Associates Architecture Office (BAAO), spearheaded the transformation of an Italianate-style brownstone, originally built in 1868, located on a serene, tree-lined street in Brooklyn's Boerum Hill neighborhood. The homeowners, a couple with a young son, sought to create a colorful yet zen family home, envisioning a design characterized by moody interiors. The project, spanning 278 square meters across four levels, presented an opportunity to implement a comprehensive design scheme, including art and objects. The renovation faced challenges, notably a two-year timeline that commenced in the fall of 2020, coinciding with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This period was marked by significant delays in overseas shipments and material availability, necessitating compromises throughout the design process. Despite these obstacles, Barker and the homeowners demonstrated dedication, making multiple trips to stone yards to select appropriate materials for the main living areas, ultimately achieving a successful outcome. A central feature of the brownstone is the kitchen, which serves as a visual counterpoint to the richer tones found elsewhere. It incorporates a deep fluted plaster arch with a bar area illuminated by vintage French smoked glass sconces. Custom cabinets crafted from Calacatta Vagli Viola marble complement an island painted in Farrow & Ball’s Jitney, a relaxed and earthy hue. The dining corner features a curved pantry cabinet and a pale oak dining table from Maiden Home, surrounded by Giraffe chairs designed by Juliana Lima Vasconcellos. A trio of hand-blown glass forms by Bomma creates a focal point above the dining area. For the media room, situated on the garden level, Barker selected Calacatta Monet marble, paired with walls painted in a deep aubergine. This space is furnished for comfort with a sectional sofa and a barrel chair upholstered in chartreuse velvet. To facilitate transitions between the front and back of the house, textured materials like plaster and white oak tambour were used. The color palette throughout the home was inspired by the natural variations in stone, incorporating soft curves to echo existing architectural elements such as the stair and arched front door, and to soften the typical rectangularity of brownstone spaces. Each room in the house possesses a distinct character. The entry, for instance, is enveloped in Farrow & Ball’s Green Smoke, featuring a green and pink checkerboard floor. The light-filled parlor, acting as a pause point within the moody interior scheme, showcases a gold-painted relief by Andrew Zimmerman and Cloud Support by Mike Hansel above the original marble mantel. A Julep sofa and Galatea armchair define the seating area, accompanied by two marble tables and a curvy rug from Hatsu, based in Mumbai. The predominant color scheme throughout the house consists of various greens, purples, and mushroom tones, chosen to harmonize with the selected stone materials. The second floor houses the primary suite, characterized by soft lavender plastered walls and stained oak elements. An arched closet leads to the primary bathroom, which combines lavender walls with green onyx and Rosa Aurora Macchia Vecchia shower elements, creating a serene environment for the freestanding tub with a garden view. The top floor includes a rear yard and three additional bedrooms, with a curving stairwell culminating in a sculpted, skylit hall. This design provides ample space for the family and their guests, successfully realizing Barker’s objective of creating a cool and calm space with intentional moody accents. #BrooklynBrownstone #MoodyInteriors #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryHomes #MaterialSelection #FamilyHome #ColourfulInteriors

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

This article details a thoughtfully converted two-bedroom duplex loft located at 99 Clinton Street in Brooklyn Heights, within a historic mid-nineteenth-century Presbyterian Church. The residence, priced at $2.2 million, combines historical architectural elements with modern renovations. The loft features double-height ceilings, original wide-plank hardwood floors, exposed beams, and stunning Gothic-style stained glass windows, creating a unique living environment. Upon entering the loft, residents are greeted by a spacious 500-square-foot living room. This area boasts a cathedral-height ceiling, a wood-burning fireplace, and custom built-in shelving. A prominent, gorgeously exposed wood beam frames the space, adding to its distinctive character. The design integrates the grandeur of the original church structure with comfortable residential living. The kitchen is described as efficient and fully renovated, featuring a functional pass-through that connects directly to the living room. This design facilitates easy entertaining by providing direct access to the open dining area. Adjacent to the kitchen and living space is a versatile corner area, suitable for use as a den or potentially convertible into a third bedroom, offering flexibility in floor plan utilization. Stairs lead to the second floor, which includes a versatile landing area that can serve as a small office space. The upper level houses two large bedrooms, each characterized by magnificent, nearly floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows. These windows are a direct nod to the building's ecclesiastical origins and are a central feature of the home's aesthetic appeal. Both the master bedroom's en suite bathroom and the additional bathroom on this floor have undergone complete updates, featuring modern and beautiful finishes that complement the overall design of the home. The property's location in Brooklyn Heights further enhances its appeal. It is situated steps away from the bustling Montague Street, offering convenient access to various amenities. The loft is also minutes from major subway lines, providing easy commutes to downtown Manhattan, and is in close proximity to the new Brooklyn Bridge Park. This combination of historic charm, modern comfort, and prime urban location positions the duplex loft as a distinctive and desirable residence in New York City. #BrooklynHeights #LoftLiving #ChurchConversion #StainedGlassWindows #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #DuplexApartment

Amanda and Joe Boyle enlisted the expertise of designer Karen Davis to create a five-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot home in Cinco Ranch, Katy, that combines elegance with practicality for their family, including a 5-year-old daughter, a 2.5-year-old son, and a 10-year-old Labradoodle. Davis, known for her "Marker Girl" business which specializes in stain-resistant and family-friendly interiors, applied her philosophy to the Boyles' residence, completed in 2014. The design focuses on accommodating the everyday spills and messes that come with young children without compromising on aesthetic appeal. The living room, featuring an inviting mix of pale blues and neutrals, is designed with Sunbrella fabrics for upholstery and Stainmaster carpet for the rug, both chosen for their stain-resistant properties and ease of cleaning. These durable materials extend to the main staircase, the playroom, and the upstairs game room, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance in high-traffic areas. The home also incorporates numerous built-in storage solutions throughout, including extensive cabinetry in the mudroom and customized bookshelves in the living room, to effectively conceal toys, jackets, nap mats, backpacks, and shoes, thus keeping clutter out of sight. This design choice addresses a common frustration from their previous home where items tended to accumulate by the back door. The master bathroom serves as a private retreat, characterized by a soaring ceiling, pale blue walls, and large frosted windows that provide abundant natural light while maintaining privacy. Quartzite countertops and a chandelier add touches of glamour, complementing the cool and soothing ambiance. The bathroom also features two spacious walk-in closets with adjustable shelves and built-in drawers, providing ample storage for both Amanda and her attorney husband. A deep-drop tub, while a luxurious centerpiece, is acknowledged by Amanda as a feature she rarely has time to enjoy. Upstairs, the media room is a daily gathering spot for the family, especially in the evenings, offering a comfortable space with a Kincaid sectional and ottoman for watching TV and movies. The adjacent game room is designed with future growth in mind; while currently decorated for young children, it includes built-in desks that will eventually serve as homework and computer stations. The use of cozy, stain-resistant carpet and plentiful cabinets in the game room ensures that the space can adapt from housing toys to accommodating video games and study materials as the children mature, allowing for easy updates to the decor without significant financial investment in structural changes. The home's overall design reflects a thoughtful approach to creating a beautiful yet highly functional environment that supports family life and can evolve with the children's needs, embodying a blend of elegance and resilience against the wear and tear of daily living with young ones. #FamilyFriendlyHome #InteriorDesign #StainResistantFabrics #BuiltInStorage #KatyTexas #KarenDavisDesign #HomeDecor #ChildProofing #ModernLiving

Maria Dueñas Jacobs, former accessories director at Elle magazine and founder of the children's jewelry line Super Smalls, has designed her New York West Village apartment to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional for her family, which includes her husband, Jordan, and their three daughters, Luna, Isa, and Silvi. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a pristine home with young children, Jacobs adopted a philosophy of "strategic mess," focusing on durability and flexibility in her design choices. The apartment's layout, conceived with architects Marc Turkel of Leroy Street Studio and designer Jerry Cappiello, features a versatile four-bedroom plan that can adapt as her children grow from toddlers to teenagers. The home maintains a streamlined and intentional aesthetic, characterized by a neutral color palette accented with lavender and dusty blush tones. Key pieces of furniture, such as an ash- and burl-wood credenza, a navy leather-front bureau, and a Theo Ruth shearling club chair, provide grounding elements. Despite its sophisticated appearance, the apartment integrates numerous child-friendly features. The open-plan living, kitchen, and dining areas facilitate easy supervision, while an expandable dining table is paired with a built-in banquette upholstered in stain-resistant outdoor fabric. A custom ottoman with curved edges and scratch-resistant mohair caters to both children and their pet cat, Frankie, ensuring the space is suitable for entertaining, daily life, and family activities. Jacobs's approach extends to whimsical and practical decor. She incorporated spill-hiding, colorful patterned rugs and a custom daybed with built-in storage. The girls' bedroom is designed as a perpetual slumber party, featuring a teepee, cloud-painted walls, and a unique Murano glass light fixture. The adjacent playroom emphasizes freedom and joy, with movable furniture like bookshelves, beanbag chairs, and an arts-and-crafts table to accommodate dance parties and scooter rides. Practical elements are subtly woven into these playful spaces; for instance, the bunk bed includes stairs with hidden storage drawers, and the loft area can be converted into a desk or game spot in the future. Adult spaces also reflect a balance of practicality and creativity. The guest room includes a custom pull-out trundle for visitors, while the living room showcases a custom Moroccan rug mashup of two different patterns that Jacobs combined. Her bedside tables are topped with rose quartz, chosen for both its durability and its perceived magical and healing properties. The living room bookshelf serves as a display for personal and collected items, such as a Buddha statue, family photos, and ceramic vessels. Art plays a significant role, with pieces ranging from a Warhol print and a Robert Motherwell print to abstract paintings by Jacobs’s artist mother, Rosaria Pugliese, and even her children’s drawings, all coexisting harmoniously. Investment pieces are strategically placed out of children's reach, such as a Kalmar chandelier and disc lights by Apparatus Studio, which Jacobs considers akin to art or jewelry that completes an outfit. This thoughtful integration of high-end design with kid-proof functionality creates a home that is both beautiful and resilient, allowing for both sophisticated adult living and energetic child's play. The overall design prioritizes a lived-in, adaptable style that accommodates the evolving needs of a growing family, embracing the joyful chaos that comes with children while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. #FamilyHomeDesign #KidFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #WestVillageApartment #FlexibleLiving #NeutralColorPalette #CustomFurniture #HomeTour

DesignHex created an 8BHK duplex apartment in Mumbai, titled “2 Brothers,” for two brothers and their families. The project aimed to create a comforting home that could grow with their children, accommodate extended family, and host shared rituals without an overly stylized aesthetic. The core challenge and opportunity lay in the brothers' distinct design preferences: one favoring earthy minimalism with tactile textures and soft restraint, the other drawn to bold contrasts and structured forms. DesignHex addressed this by approaching each floor as an expression of these individual inclinations, ensuring they remained distinct yet connected. The duplex occupies the eighth and ninth floors of a residential tower, and the design capitalized on the expansive volumes, generous natural light, and open sea views available from the bare-shell site. Despite the distinct styles of each level, spatial flow, a neutral Michelangelo marble floor, and abundant natural light seamlessly knit the spaces together. Shared zones, such as an activity room and a grandparents' suite, were incorporated to reinforce a sense of togetherness and facilitate layered, cross-generational living. The eighth floor, reflecting the first brother's preference, is characterized by a calm, light-filled, and quietly composed ambiance. The living room features monochrome walls, layered artwork, and expressive bespoke furniture, including a beige sofa, single-seaters, and a custom coffee table. A hand-tufted rug designed by DesignHex for Cocoon Rugs anchors the space, while a textured ply panel with solid wood accents adds warmth behind the television. Casual seating pockets offer relaxed breaks from the main sofa, complemented by custom furniture and artwork. The dining zone features a vibrant artwork by Tanvi Kulshreshtha, a marble-topped table, upholstered chairs, and an eye-catching chandelier. The master bedroom on the eighth floor is warm and understated, with beige walls, an ombré lime-plaster headboard, and comfortable, crafted furnishings. The guest bedroom adopts a simpler, cleaner palette, distinguished by the word “blithe” etched into the bed back. The children’s bedroom, shared by a brother and sister, balances playfulness with symmetry through custom arched beds, a site-built study table, ash wood chairs, and a whimsical metal and acrylic-glass chandelier. An adjacent multifunctional activity room, featuring mirrored sliding shutters and concealed storage, can transform into a play space, workout area, or guest room. The ninth floor, designed for the second brother's family, offers a shift in mood, drawing inspiration from Bali and rainforest hues. It features a softer palette, deeper tones, and natural textures, creating an immersive and calm environment. The living room combines grey lime plaster with bold tropical wallpaper, grounded by a custom Amazonia rug. A mix of cane, rattan, and upholstered furniture contributes to a relaxed, global warmth. The television backdrop integrates marble with metal inlay work and HDF cutouts, complemented by lush potted plants. The dining area includes a custom-designed marble-topped table with concrete-textured legs and upholstered chairs. The master bedroom on the ninth floor, for the parents, is enveloped in gentle green tones, leafy prints, and soft textures, evoking a cocoon-like quality. Custom wardrobes are flush-built for a clean aesthetic. The guest bedroom continues the tropical theme more expressively, with jungle-inspired wallpaper, wooden accents, and Balinese touches like hanging lamps and patterned cushions. A study nook with open shelving provides a quiet space for reflection, making the entire duplex a harmonious blend of contrasting styles tailored to the family's needs and individual tastes. #MumbaiHome #DuplexDesign #DesignHex #EarthyMinimalism #TropicalMaximalism #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDigest

New York City's real estate market is experiencing a notable trend where luxury penthouses are being developed with exceptional private rooftop amenities, elevating the standard for high-end urban living. This development is influenced by New York's creative approach to rooftop spaces, which traditionally include diverse experiences from seasonal activities like curling and ski chalets to year-round social events. Property developers are now integrating these inventive concepts into private residences, offering exclusive access to luxurious rooftop features. The article highlights several penthouse listings that showcase these elaborate private rooftops. These amenities are designed to provide a comprehensive lifestyle experience, featuring hot tubs for relaxation, landscaped gardens, outdoor movie theaters, and even pizza ovens for culinary entertainment. This trend represents a unique opportunity for buyers to acquire properties that merge indoor comfort with extensive outdoor living spaces, providing an unparalleled 'only-in-New-York' experience. One prominent example is the pair of ultra-luxury penthouses at 212 West 72nd Street on the Upper West Side. These residences, priced at $19.15 million for Penthouse North and $13.5 million for Penthouse South, redefine indoor-outdoor living with their private rooftops. These rooftops are meticulously landscaped and include amenities such as hot tubs with views of Central Park, outdoor theaters for movie nights, and pizza ovens, enabling year-round enjoyment and sophisticated entertaining. The interiors of these penthouses, designed by CetraRuddy, emphasize the building's distinctive curved architecture at 72nd Street and Broadway, further enhancing their unique appeal. Another featured property is Penthouse 34 at 200 East 59th Street, a sister building to the renowned 432 Park Avenue. This penthouse offers breathtaking views of Central Park, impressive 14-foot ceilings, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. A significant highlight is its large, covered roof deck, which provides an outdoor dining room experience—a rarity in New York City. The building's architectural design by CetraRuddy is notable for its column-free interiors, achieved by positioning support structures on the exterior, which gives the building a distinctive Manhattan-meets-Miami aesthetic. This residence is listed at $17.96 million. Front & York in DUMBO presents Penthouse 20C, designed by architect Morris Adjmi. This property offers a full-service, luxury urban oasis experience. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is characterized by abundant natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the Brooklyn skyline. An exclusive nearly 850-square-foot private terrace, equipped with a gas grill, facilitates exceptional indoor-outdoor entertaining. Penthouse 20C is currently on the market for $4.51 million. Additional listings mentioned include properties in the Sweeney Building, Arris Lofts, 199 Mott, and One Kenmare Square. These examples collectively illustrate a growing demand for luxury penthouses that provide extensive, private outdoor spaces, transforming the urban living experience in New York City into one of grandeur and exclusive amenity access. #NYCPenthouses #LuxuryRealEstate #PrivateRooftops #UrbanLiving #HighEndAmenities #CetraRuddyDesign #MorrisAdjmiArchitecture #RealEstateDevelopment #NewYorkCity

The Yehs, a couple with backgrounds in graphic design and fashion, collaborated with Taipei-based KC Design Studio to create a unique three-story seaside holiday home in Miaoli County, Taiwan. This 1,550-square-foot residence deviates from their previous eclectic city apartment design, focusing instead on two primary themes: a dominant pink color palette, reflecting Ms. Yeh’s favorite color, and an interior specifically designed to be feline-friendly for their three cats. The design process involved using pink mineral paint for walls and ceilings to establish a pure pink base, complemented by natural-colored materials to achieve a mixed style. The ground floor of the home, dubbed ‘Cats’ Pink House,’ is configured for entertaining, featuring an open-plan layout that integrates the dining area, living room, and kitchen. A powder room is discreetly placed to the side. This space is characterized by warm timber surfaces, a variety of textures, materials, and shapes, all accented with shades of pink. Ascending to the first floor, pink takes center stage, housing the master bedroom, master bath, and a versatile work and play area specifically designed for the cats. This ‘cats’ room’ incorporates feline-friendly features such as cat stairs and furry cat beds. The designers meticulously considered details for the cats' comfort and engagement, including a desk with integrated stairs for climbing, and custom-made staircases positioned to offer the cats outdoor views. Scratch-proof wooden flooring and pink Pandomo surfaces contribute to the warmth of the ‘cats’ room’ while also offering practical benefits. The wall coating in this area is designed to absorb odors and regulate humidity. Smart glass panels separate the cats’ room from the master bedroom, allowing for adjustable opacity. The top floor features a multipurpose room that opens onto an outdoor terrace, providing views of wind turbines. In contrast to the predominantly pink lower floors, this space adopts a more subdued, masculine aesthetic with gray Pandomo walls and black steel shelves. The design in this area also focuses on preserving the natural textures of iron, cement, and wood to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. A small bathroom on this floor, lined with pink tiles, visually links it to the rest of the home’s color scheme. The leftover outdoor space on this level has been creatively transformed into a mini basketball court for Mr. Yeh, incorporating geometric patterns and saturated color blocks that echo the interior design themes. Throughout the project, KC Design Studio aimed to strike a balance between an expressive, playful design and maintaining a sense of purity and style. The use of geometric elements and pink shades forms the core aesthetic, while other materials and thoughtful details contribute to a harmonious and functional living space for both the human residents and their feline companions. #PinkInteriors #CatFriendlyDesign #TaiwaneseArchitecture #HolidayHome #ModernDesign #SeasideLiving #FelineFurniture #KCDesignStudio #CustomHome

This blog post highlights a $5 million penthouse loft in Tribeca, located at 58 Walker Street, showcasing its unique blend of industrial charm and modern luxury. The 2,115-square-foot duplex spans two floors and includes a generous 1,318 square feet of private rooftop space, making it suitable for both winter and summer enjoyment. The apartment, situated in a building constructed in 1869, retains much of its original character, particularly through extensive exposed brickwork. Contemporary additions include an open staircase that connects the two levels, a striking massive copper kitchen vent, and distinctive lighting fixtures. The kitchen, positioned beneath the lofted second floor, features an externally-powered indoor grill, allowing for year-round culinary activities. The main floor of the penthouse accommodates two bedrooms and two bathrooms, both offering northern views. The master bedroom is further enhanced by a spacious dressing room. The second, lofted floor is an open-plan area currently configured as a “dining loggia.” This space is equipped with a custom 100-bottle wine bin, a wine bar, a wine refrigerator, and a half bathroom, designed for entertaining. Access to the private rooftop terrace is provided via another open staircase leading from the dining loggia. The terrace offers ample room for outdoor furniture and landscaping, with panoramic views that include iconic New York City landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Woolworth Building. Interior design details include a classic bathroom with a clawfoot tub and a second bathroom featuring patterned wallpaper, adding a contemporary touch to the rustic aesthetic. Overall, the penthouse presents a balanced living environment with a wood-burning fireplace for colder months and expansive outdoor space for warmer weather, combining historical elements with modern amenities in a highly desirable Tribeca location. The property is listed by Dina Lewis and Melanie Lazenby of Douglas Elliman. #PenthouseLoft #TribecaRealEstate #LuxuryApartment #ExposedBrick #RooftopTerrace #Duplex #IndustrialChic #NYCArchitecture #WalkerStreet