The Insider: Park Slope Limestone Stunner Gets Top-Notch Revamp, Laid-Back Style

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

A 19th-century brownstone in a Historic District, featuring extensive mahogany woodwork, underwent a significant renovation to balance the preservation of its original details with the creation of a brighter, more contemporary living space. The project was led by architect Kim Letven of NV/design.architecture, with construction completed by Brooklyn-based Burda Construction over 14 months. The brownstone's layout was reconfigured, dedicating three floors to the homeowners and reserving the garden level for visiting relatives. The parlor floor now houses the living room and a new kitchen/dining area, the second floor contains the primary bedroom, a study, and a new bathroom, while the third floor accommodates two children’s rooms and two new bathrooms. A key aspect of the renovation involved extensive structural modifications, including blowing out the rear walls on both the parlor and garden levels. These openings were then fitted with large steel and glass installations to maximize natural light entry. Despite these modern interventions, great care was taken to restore the original architectural elements. The magnificent burled mahogany doors, carved moldings, and plasterwork throughout the house were meticulously retained and repaired, ensuring that the historical character of the home remained intact. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation encompassed a complete overhaul of the building's infrastructure. All mechanical systems, including plumbing and electrical, were replaced. Radiant heating elements were installed beneath new pale white oak floors, which feature a herringbone pattern on the parlor floor and a straight run elsewhere, contributing to both comfort and a clean, modern aesthetic. The interior decor was influenced by the clients' preference for the color blue, evident in the sectional sofa in the front room. Specific design choices highlight the blend of old and new. The kitchen features lower cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore’s Beau Green, complemented by white Caesarstone countertops and matte gold fixtures from Restoration Hardware. A subtle gap in the crown molding above the new window wall discreetly integrates an automatic roll-down window shade. The primary bedroom emphasizes minimalism, allowing the intact original moldings and window trim to stand out. The second-floor study/library is distinguished by blue-backed bookcases and a preserved plaster arch. Bathrooms throughout the house received modern updates. The primary bath employs a subtle color scheme with a custom wood vanity designed to resemble furniture, gold-toned hardware, and gray marble hex tiles. One of the top-floor baths features turquoise glass tiles in the shower and marble mosaics on the floor, while another uses Popham encaustic cement tiles from Ann Sacks. A new large skylight and a wood-veneer pendant from LZF illuminate the top floor landing, further enhancing the home's brightness. Even a boy's room was personalized with a wall covered in a rocket ship blueprint, adding a unique touch. The lower level, designated for guests, also received an expansive kitchen as part of its renovation. #ParkSlope #BrownstoneRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #BrooklynRealEstate #NVdesignArchitecture

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

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 blog post features a renovated early 20th-century townhouse located at 600 2nd Street in the Park Slope Historic District of Brooklyn, New York. The property, originally one of 26 houses built by William H. Reynolds with architect Benjamin Driesler, is currently listed for $10 million by Rebekah Carver of Douglas Elliman. It has been transformed from a three-family residence into a single-family home, undergoing a significant renovation by architect Jeffery Povero and the homeowner, a designer, which was featured in Architectural Digest in 2020. The house combines preserved historical elements with modern updates, creating a unique living space. The exterior of the limestone townhouse features a rounded bay, a brownstone base, and a brownstone stoop, maintaining its historical integrity within the district. Inside, the parlor level showcases an abundance of original details, including intricate plasterwork, a columned screen with fretwork, built-ins, and three period mantels. The middle parlor, believed to have once served as a 'Turkish corner' with elaborate drapery and seating, retains an original mantel. The front parlor now features a marble mantel imported from Paris, replacing what would have been a console mirror. During the renovation, the main level was meticulously restored to triple parlors, with a dining room situated at the rear, where a kitchen previously stood. The dining room itself boasts original coffered ceilings and a mantel, which has been updated with a new marble surround, and new wainscoting was added. A modern, sculptural staircase, a key feature of the renovation, dramatically descends from this level to the garden floor. This garden level houses a contemporary kitchen, a living room, and a guest suite. The newly designed kitchen, visible from the dramatic curving stair, is characterized by a large center island, white cabinetry, a dining nook, and French doors that provide access to the rear yard. Additionally, a dumbwaiter was installed during the renovation, connecting the kitchen to the upper floors. The primary suite, located on the floor above the parlor, is a full-floor retreat with a walk-in closet, a spacious bathroom featuring a gas fireplace, a soaking tub, and a marble-lined shower. A former kitchen on this level has been converted into a study, offering access to a new terrace. Further updates to the property include central air conditioning, radiant heat floors, and both gas and wood-burning fireplaces, enhancing comfort and modern living. Other improvements mentioned in the listing include soundproofing, a sub pump, and a backyard sprinkler system. The property last sold in 2016 for $3.86 million, prior to its extensive renovation. The transformation highlights a blend of historical preservation and contemporary design, making it a notable offering in the Park Slope real estate market. #ParkSlope #Townhouse #Limestone #Renovation #BrooklynRealEstate #HistoricDistrict #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign

This article details the transformation of a 2,000-square-foot prewar apartment in Park Slope, Brooklyn, designed by Williamsburg-based artist and designer Leyden Lewis. The apartment, located in a 1929 building on Prospect Park West designed by architect Emery Roth, was renovated to combine elegance with accessibility for a nonagenarian client. Lewis, who has a BFA in architecture from Parsons and teaches at various design schools, emphasized craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the project. A central aspect of the renovation was to create a barrier-free environment, making the apartment easily navigable by walker or wheelchair. This was achieved by eliminating door saddles and incorporating numerous curved surfaces, which Lewis noted also contribute to a sense of calm and safety by reducing sharp, 90-degree corners. These curves are prominent in design elements such as a kitchen ceiling soffit and a living room fireplace, replacing previously rectilinear shapes and fostering a tranquil atmosphere within the urban setting. Significant structural changes included converting a traditional closed-off kitchen into a modern, open-concept space. Architectural details, such as plaster cove moldings, were meticulously restored or recreated to honor the apartment's original character. The design incorporated a variety of luxurious finishes, such as leather floors in the entry foyer and bronze-clad steel door surrounds for new pocket doors featuring laminated textured-glass inserts. S. Hertz and 9 Co. served as the general contractor for the renovation. The entry foyer features leather hides from Edelman Leather, cut into tiles and treated with butcher’s wax for durability. Contemporary horsehair-covered benches from Donzella complement this space. Throughout the apartment, ordinary doors were replaced with wide bronze-clad steel pocket doors with textured-glass inserts, fabricated by Brooklyn-based Face Design. In the dining room, a limestone floor from Stone Source is juxtaposed with walls upholstered in iridescent silk from Jim Thompson. The living room's curved fireplace, a custom creation made from exterior-grade concrete, serves as a sculptural focal point, anchoring the room with its soft lines. Furnishings in this area include a custom silk rug from Joseph Carini, a contemporary sofa from Donghia, vintage 1960s armchairs from Donzella, and a coffee table from Horseman Antiques. The client's existing dining set was integrated into the new design, and the dining room drapes are made from gold and bronze sheer striped fabric by Jack Lenor Larsen. The master bedroom features silk-wallpapered walls and is illuminated by an Ingo Maurer light fixture. The kitchen's design includes a curved peninsula with a quartzite countertop from Stone Source, and a ceiling soffit that harmonizes with an existing circular plumbing stack. A chandelier from jGood Design enhances the kitchen's aesthetic. Opposite the kitchen, a 1950s French confectioner’s cabinet from Conjeaud & Chappey provides storage. The bathroom, while fully compliant with ADA standards, maintains the apartment's elegant aesthetic. It features custom sandblasted steel grab bars and other metalwork by Face Design, teak shower details, Waterworks hardware, and tiles from Walker Zanger. The project successfully blends high-end design with practical accessibility, resulting in a sophisticated and comfortable home. #InteriorDesign #ParkSlope #PrewarApartment #AccessibleDesign #LuxuryInteriors #LeydenLewis #BrooklynHome #Renovation #CustomFurniture

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a vintage four-story wood-frame row house in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, undertaken by architect Jane Kim for a couple relocating from Manhattan. The project involved an extensive overhaul, including a new kitchen, new baths, a restored facade, the installation of solar panels, and a transition to an all-electric system. The homeowners, despite being retirees, embarked on this ambitious project with the intention of being active members of their new community and using the parlor floor for meetings and entertaining. The renovation maintained some of the home's original character, with salvageable elements such as doors, moldings, stair rails, and newel posts being preserved. However, the architect described the overall scope as "very nearly a gut renovation." New reclaimed oak floors were installed throughout the house, except for the top floor, which was designed as a flexible-use space complete with a home office, kitchenette, and a skylit bath. A significant portion of the renovation focused on the exterior. The rotted wood siding was replaced, and elaborate Victorian woodwork was meticulously restored. This restoration process involved consulting old photographs and examining nearby houses to guide the replication of details. Although the house is not situated in a landmarks district, the homeowners expressed a desire to honor the home's historical aesthetic. Hector Gonzalez of Park Slope Painting was responsible for the detailed exterior restoration, which included stripping asphalt shingles, replacing damaged wood, and applying a multi-color paint scheme featuring Benjamin Moore Philipsburg Blue for the main body and Benjamin Moore Evening Dove and Abyss for the trim. The exterior previously reflected its appearance in a circa 1940 tax photo. Inside, the entry hall features cleaned-up original woodwork and new hardware. The existing stair rail, balusters, and newel posts were retained, but the stair treads were replaced with new oak. A new bath on the parlor level, located at the rear of the front hall, showcases marble tile combined with vertical Blue Fog ceramic tile from Heath and includes a stall shower for guests. The garden-level kitchen is described as "almost a chef's kitchen," equipped with walnut cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops, and an oversized stainless steel island with two sinks and a trash chute. The kitchen floor is clad in porcelain tile designed to mimic slate. An inviting brick-walled nook with a window seat overlooking the backyard provides a cozy spot for morning coffee. A previously closed-off archway between the kitchen and dining room was uncovered during demolition and meticulously restored to its original size and detail. The second floor is dedicated to the primary suite, which includes a bedroom at the rear and a bay-windowed library at the front, featuring a walk-in closet/dressing room. The primary bath is characterized by a vintage-style sink on chrome legs, Art Deco sconces, a marble-topped window ledge, and a walk-in shower. The open top floor, intended for multi-purpose use and frequently serving as a home office, includes a small kitchenette. Stairs from this level lead to the roof, offering harbor views. The skylit bath on the top floor features jade porcelain tile and a freestanding tub, which was one of the first items purchased for the renovation, primarily for visiting grandchildren. The rear exterior wall was finished with Hardie Plank fiber cement half-round shingles, creating a fish-scale effect similar to parts of the front facade. #WoodFrameHouse #HomeRenovation #SunsetPark #BrooklynDesign #JaneKimArchitect #SustainableHome #VictorianRestoration #InteriorDesign #FacadeRestoration

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

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

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

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

Designer Rebecca Philipson undertook a significant remodel of a 1990s-built, 5,300-square-foot home in Aurora, Ohio, focusing on transforming the kitchen, great room, and lounge into more open and inviting spaces. The homeowners sought to infuse warmth and an open concept into their residence, a vision Philipson brought to life through a blend of traditional and rustic elements, with distinct French Country influences. Central to the design is the incorporation of Amish hand-hewn ceiling beams and elaborate stonework, which serve as prominent features, particularly in the lounge. This area, designed for relaxation and entertaining, includes a wet bar, a built-in refrigerator, and custom alder cabinetry. The adjacent sunroom houses a pool table, creating a seamless flow for social gatherings and post-dinner interactions. The overall layout was reimagined to foster a sense of togetherness, allowing family and guests to interact comfortably across the connected rooms. Philipson achieved this open concept by strategically removing the wall between the great room and kitchen, then linking the kitchen to the lounge. Archways were introduced to formalize these open transitions. The kitchen underwent the most substantial transformation. Previously walled off, it featured an angled peninsula, an irregularly shaped island, and low-hanging soffits. Philipson replaced these with faux beams to maintain the rustic aesthetic and installed a central island with seating for three. The homeowners' desire for warmth and intricate details was met through design elements such as decorative island legs. Attention to detail extends throughout the kitchen, with intricate touches found in the baseboards, legs, valances, and along the bottom of the island cabinetry. The refrigerator was artfully concealed with cabinet panels and mirrored glass, designed to resemble an armoire rather than an appliance, fulfilling the client's wish for cabinetry that emulated furniture. A built-in coffee maker contributed to a decluttered countertop space. The great room further showcases the sophisticated stonework, with cream-colored stone extending from floor to ceiling around the fireplace. This central feature is flanked by built-in cabinets that mirror the design of the kitchen's concealed refrigerator. Oversized iron hardware on the cabinetry adds a dramatic flair, complementing the multi-tiered iron chandelier, which serves as a focal point. Recessed lighting supplements the chandelier, with all lighting choices made to enhance the room's warm ambiance. The remodel successfully integrated rustic charm with French Country elegance, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment across the main living areas. #HomeRemodel #AuroraHome #FrenchCountryStyle #RusticDesign #KitchenRenovation #GreatRoomDesign #LoungeArea #InteriorDesign #OpenConcept

Lacquer paint, a glossy finish that has historically been challenging to implement without highlighting imperfections, is experiencing a resurgence in home design. While lacquer furniture has already seen a return to popularity, lacquer paint has been slower to gain mainstream traction due to its demanding application process. However, when executed correctly, this high-gloss treatment can transform a space, offering a striking and sophisticated aesthetic. Designer Cameron Ruppert's recent project, a maximalist Washington, D.C. home, exemplifies the successful application of lacquer paint. Her electric blue dining room, made impactful and cozy by the high-gloss wall treatment, serves as a prime example. Ruppert emphasizes that lacquering is a meticulous process and offers key advice for those considering it. First, she strongly recommends hiring a professional, as achieving a flawless finish requires significant skill and time, often taking two to four weeks for a single room. Attempting a DIY approach without expertise can lead to an undesirable outcome. Second, Ruppert advises against subtle colors, suggesting that if one commits to the effort of lacquering, the color should be bold and striking enough to create a "wow" effect. Neutral tones, she argues, may fall flat when rendered in such a high-gloss finish. Third, she stresses the importance of balancing the glossy effect with varied textures and dimensions. For instance, combining lacquer with materials like leather and wool in a den can ground the space, preventing it from feeling overly sleek. Conversely, she cautions against pairing lacquer with Lucite furniture, as the combination can result in an excessively glossy and overwhelming environment. For those hesitant about a full-room commitment, alternatives exist. Focusing on a single wall, such as a fireplace, with high-gloss paint can add depth and contrast effectively. For a bolder statement, extending lacquer to the ceiling and built-ins, especially on textured surfaces like shiplap, creates additional visual interest. Defying conventions, lacquering floors instead of walls can also produce a dramatic effect, as seen in a Manhattan apartment where gleaming black hardwood complements matte white walls and colorful art. Even small, cramped spaces can benefit from a daring approach, using bright, lacquered hues on everything from walls to stools to create a vibrant and unexpected interior. Lastly, for those who prefer a "pop of color," a small space like a powder room can be an ideal canvas, where a high-shine shade can elevate minimal fixtures to feel anything but ordinary. #LacquerPaint #HighGlossFinish #HomeDesignTrends #InteriorDecor #WallTreatments #CameronRuppert #DesignTips #BoldColors #TexturalBalance

This article details the transformation of a previously outdated Park Slope condo into a vibrant, modern pied-à-terre for a couple. The project was undertaken by Studio Nato, a Brooklyn-based interior design firm, with a primary goal of enhancing brightness, reintroducing traditional architectural elements, expanding storage solutions, and significantly upgrading both the aesthetic and functionality of the kitchen and bathroom. The condo, located on the third floor of a vintage row house, had not seen significant updates since a developer's renovation two decades prior, resulting in an uninspired and impractical living space. Studio Nato's renovation involved several key interventions. Much of the existing recessed lighting, which contributed to a dull ambiance, was removed. New white oak flooring was installed throughout the apartment, complemented by new crown moldings and window sills to restore a sense of traditional elegance. A significant improvement was made to the long hall, where a series of disparate closet doors were streamlined. These were replaced with uniform painted MDF millwork that extends almost to the ceiling, wrapping around into the kitchen. This millwork conceals reorganized coat and linen storage, along with laundry facilities, creating a cohesive and minimalist look. Additionally, new bedroom doors and a re-envisioned bathroom door were installed, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Almost Black and fitted with new brass hardware. Creative solutions were applied to previously underutilized spaces. An alcove off the front room, often a challenge in row house apartments, was transformed into a functional reading nook featuring a new custom white oak bookcase. This space was furnished with vintage Danish armchairs and a copper end table/stool by designer Andrew Neyer, adding character and utility. The apartment's existing wood-burning fireplace, a positive feature, was also updated. Studio Nato addressed the issue of its brick wall absorbing natural light by wrapping the top half with Sheetrock and painting the bottom half white. A new wood surround was added, and the brick hearth was replaced with soapstone, matching the material used for the kitchen island. The kitchen, designed to be neat and compact, received custom cabinetry from South Carolina, painted white and featuring mortised edge pulls. The island is crafted from white oak with a waterfall soapstone countertop. The backsplash tiles were sourced from Clé, while lighting fixtures include Ambit pendant lights from Muuto. Bar stools from West Elm complete the kitchen's modern look. Space-saving appliances were chosen, such as a 30-inch-wide Liebherr refrigerator and separate cooktop and wall oven units. The long hall also saw an aesthetic upgrade with painted MDF and routed grooves for added texture, concealing ample storage. The main bedroom now features a dark-painted dado and gleaming sconces from Allied Maker. The bathroom's design is simple yet refined, featuring a custom vanity with Brizo wall-mounted faucets, white subway tiles, and matte black hex tiles from Clé on the floor. These comprehensive renovations by Studio Nato effectively revitalized the condo, making it a functional and aesthetically pleasing urban retreat for the couple. #ParkSlope #CondoRenovation #PiedATerre #StudioNato #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeRenovation #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation

In 2001, Marion and Jeffery Barker purchased a 1960s brick ranch home on 18 acres in Virginia's Northern Neck, overlooking Nomini Creek, a tributary of the Potomac. Despite the house being outdated and the timing of the purchase—just a week after 9/11—being uncertain, the couple was drawn to the property's prime waterfront location and its manageable two-hour drive from their Bethesda residence, making it ideal for weekend escapes. At the time, Marion owned the consulting firm Palladian Partners, and Jeffery was a scientist at the National Institutes of Health. They envisioned transforming the modest ranch into a modern dream home but knew it would require significant time and resources. After saving for 15 years, the Barkers initiated a gradual redesign in 2016, enlisting Jeffery’s daughter, Brooklyn architect Alexandra Barker, for the project. A key challenge was environmental regulations, which mandated that the new structure adhere to the existing foundation and original footprint due to its proximity to the water. Despite these constraints, the renovated home represents a dramatic transformation from its original, cramped layout. The new design emphasizes an open floor plan, extensive walls of windows, and expansive water views, creating a stark contrast to the previous structure. Alexandra Barker's design strategy focused on maximizing the property's natural surroundings. She incorporated oversized storefront glass instead of standard residential windows to offer uninterrupted vistas, a feature she considers the home's most special detail. The architect also prioritized the use of locally sourced materials where possible, including granite for the kitchen backsplash from Richmond, reclaimed-oak floors, and bluestone around the pool area. This approach not only supported local businesses but also integrated the home more deeply with its regional environment. The homeowners, Marion and Jeffery, were described by Alexandra as highly collaborative and flexible clients, contributing to a smooth design process. An added benefit for Alexandra was the prospect of personally enjoying the finished product with her family. The redesigned home includes three guest rooms, each with an en suite bathroom, providing comfortable accommodation for visiting family members, including Alexandra and her siblings. The primary suite, located on the second floor, is a highlight, featuring 365-degree views and access to a private roof deck. This rooftop space, initially intended for an office, was repurposed due to budget considerations and ultimately became one of the owners' favorite features. The renovation was completed in 2021, and the retired couple, Marion and Jeffery, expressed that the two-decade wait was worthwhile. They now share their property with local wildlife, including bald eagles, deer, ospreys, and otters. The constant natural beauty, particularly the sunrises and sunsets over Nomini Creek, provides immense satisfaction, with Jeffery reportedly having captured hundreds of photographs of these daily spectacles. The project successfully converted a dated ranch into a modern, waterfront marvel that harmonizes with its natural setting. #HomeRenovation #ModernDesign #WaterfrontProperty #ArchitecturalTransformation #VirginiaRealEstate #SustainableMaterials #BeforeAndAfter #FamilyProject #NorthernNeck