The Insider: Painstaking Reno Polishes a Brooklyn Heights Jewel, Creating Luxe One-Family Dwelling

The Metropolitan Opera's Patron Lounge, now known as the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, underwent a significant redesign by ELLE DECOR A-Listers Christine and John Gachot of Gachot Studios. This renovation marks a new chapter for the storied space, originally decorated by Billy Baldwin when the opera house opened in 1966. The Gachots, longtime fans of the Met Opera, were tasked with refreshing the lounge to reflect contemporary luxury while honoring its rich history and the grand aesthetics of the opera house. The original lounge, characterized by its wall-to-wall windows and domed ceiling, was designed by Baldwin to offer practical, flexible seating areas for guests. However, after decades, the space required a modern update. The Gachots were selected for their expertise in warm, sophisticated interiors, demonstrated in previous luxury hospitality projects like the Pendry Manhattan West and Detroit’s Shinola Hotel. Their approach to the Met Opera lounge involved a deep dive into the Met’s extensive archives, studying original sketches and photographs to reinterpret Baldwin's vision while introducing a fresh perspective. Inspired by Baldwin's initial layout, the Gachots divided the lounge into distinct zones for various activities, including a bar area, comfortable sofas, and tables for gathering. This zoning strategy ensures that the space remains versatile and inviting. The design seamlessly integrates with the opera's iconic common areas, such as the lobby with its red carpeting and travertine accents. The chosen color palette of blush, red, and camel complements these existing elements, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the venue. One of the standout features of the redesigned lounge is a glittering gold custom carpet by Creative Matters, which evokes the effervescence of freshly popped Champagne, serving as a luxurious counterpoint to the lobby's famous red carpet. Other custom elements include a brass Amuneal bar, screens upholstered in Clarence House fabric, and all furniture supplied by Roche Bobois. The bathrooms feature fixtures by Waterworks from the Bond collection, designed in collaboration with Gachot, alongside Waterworks sinks, mirrors, and stone. The lounge's new name, the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, honors a managing director on the Met Opera’s board who generously funded the renovation. Access to this exclusive space is reserved for Metropolitan Opera sponsor members. The redesign is intended to symbolize a renewed commitment to attracting and nurturing a new generation of opera enthusiasts and patrons, a sentiment echoed by both Straz and the Gachots. The project underscores the importance of cultural institutions and the role of design in preserving and evolving these significant spaces. #MetropolitanOpera #LoungeRedesign #GachotStudios #LuxuryInteriorDesign #CulturalRenovation #HospitalityDesign #NewYorkDesign #OperaHouse #InteriorDecor

The Brooklyn town house belonging to actor David Harbour and singer-actor Lily Allen is a vibrant and unconventional space, designed in collaboration with AD100 designer Billy Cotton and architect Ben Bischoff of MADE. The home, described as a "familial fantasyland of daring beauty and individual connoisseurial vision," stands in stark contrast to the prevailing trend of minimalist, neutral aesthetics. Its interiors feature a dynamic mix of chintz balloon shades, crystal chandeliers, pink silk, tiger-patterned textiles, and Mylar wallpaper, reflecting Allen's bold, eclectic, and fun personal taste, as noted by both Cotton and Harbour. The project began with the renovation of a late-19th-century Italianate brownstone in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens neighborhood. Architect Ben Bischoff recalls the house's initial deteriorated state and the subsequent discovery of original moldings and doors beneath layers of past renovations. The couple sought to preserve the historical character while creating a casual, family-friendly environment, rejecting overt formality. Billy Cotton presented three design directions: traditional English, modern Brooklyn town house, and a layered Italian style, which the couple embraced due to the neighborhood's Italian-American history and Allen's desire for something "weird and wonderful." The layout of the house also deviates from typical conventions. The second level features a primary bath-cum-sitting room, adorned with wall-to-wall floral carpet, Zuber wallpaper, and sink stands fashioned from Louis XVI–style commodes. This eclectic design prioritizes the owners' preferences over traditional resale value concerns, as highlighted by Allen. The primary bedroom, uniquely situated as a windowless chamber between the main bath and dressing rooms, further exemplifies the personalized approach to the home's design. On the piano nobile, the kitchen and dining area are positioned at the front of the house, immediately accessible from the street, signifying its role as the home's central gathering space. Conversely, the living/garden room, featuring a double-sided sofa in emerald velvet, is located at the rear. The lower-level media room, devoid of original 19th-century details, adopts a crisp, contemporary interior with a glamorous, Madeleine Castaing-inspired aesthetic, showcasing matching tiger-patterned carpet and sofa against high-gloss, creamy-white walls. This design choice, according to Cotton, is a reflection of Allen’s captivating presence and her aversion to conventional living spaces. David Harbour, a self-proclaimed "suburban boy" accustomed to a more conventional aesthetic, expresses admiration for his wife's distinctive vision and willingness to take design risks. Despite the unconventional style, which their children playfully refer to as the "clown house," the home embodies a deeply personal and creatively executed living environment that perfectly suits the family's unique preferences. The collaboration between the homeowners, designer, and architect resulted in a unique and character-filled Brooklyn residence. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #BrooklynRealEstate #EclecticDecor #RenovationProject #ArchitecturalStyle #LuxuryInteriors

This blog post details a comprehensive gut renovation and two-story addition to a Brooklyn Heights townhouse, transforming a former multi-unit building into a spacious single-family home for a growing family. Platt Dana Architects spearheaded the project, which expanded the living space to approximately 7,000 square feet. A key feature of the renovation involved replacing the solid back wall of the 19th-century row house with a two-story glass and steel expanse, extending the garden and parlor levels almost 20 feet into the backyard to enhance light and living area. The entire structure underwent a complete overhaul, including new heating, electrical, and sprinkler systems, with a focus on modernizing the house while respecting its classic prewar aesthetic. The architectural firm reworked the layout from the cellar, which was excavated to create sufficient headroom for a home gym, up to the attic, which now accommodates a guest suite. The design prioritizes the needs of a family with young children, featuring a flexible parlor-floor layout. A formal dining room, primarily used for special occasions, is situated at the front of the parlor floor, while the remainder of this level is dedicated to an open-plan kitchen and family room that overlooks the garden. This informal arrangement is designed to suit the family's current lifestyle and future growth, deferring the need for a formal living room. A new staircase connects the parlor floor to a playroom and garden on the level below. Given the lack of salvageable original details, the interior design, managed by Marie-Christine McNally of Marie-Christine Design, opted for a simple yet classic approach. New doors, moldings, and mantels were installed, along with a relocated main staircase that maintains a traditional appearance. The family room features a Montauk Sofa sectional and a new stair with a tempered safety glass rail leading to the garden level. Ten-inch-wide oak flooring from Carlisle was installed throughout the house. The kitchen boasts custom traditional-style cabinetry fabricated by ABR Builders, durable 3-by-6-inch marble tile backsplash, and a maintenance-free Glassos countertop, complemented by pendant lights from Alison Berger. A second sink in a storage wall expands the kitchen's functionality, and a vintage Knoll table with Elbow chairs serves as the everyday dining area. The front dining room is distinguished by painted wood panels and new plaster moldings, evoking the formality of the original front parlor. This space is furnished with vintage chairs, a Normandy table by Démiurge New York, and a modern chandelier by Jonathan Browning Studios. The master bedroom includes a walk-in closet with bleached oak cabinetry and direct access to a deck atop the new addition. The master bathroom is positioned at the front of the house to maximize natural light, featuring a large cast iron Kohler tub, marble tile from Complete Tile, marble walls from Stone Source, and fixtures from Waterworks and Dornbracht. The children's bathroom includes a long Duravit sink with Waterworks faucets and spacious linen closets. Abundant natural light is also drawn in through two elliptical skylights above. The connection between the family room and the playroom below is visually seamless, with an open stair featuring floating oak treads and a glass rail to preserve the flow of light and view of the garden. #BrooklynHeights #TownhouseRenovation #GutRenovation #HomeAddition #InteriorDesign #PlattDanaArchitects #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryRenovation

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

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

A well-preserved Neo-Grec brownstone, located at 427a 8th Street in the Park Slope Historic District, is currently listed for $2.45 million. This circa 1884 townhouse, part of a block designed by Jefferson F. Wood, is 17 feet wide and configured as a one-family home over three stories, although it is legally a two-family residence. The exterior of the brownstone showcases typical Neo-Grec architectural elements, including incised door and window surrounds, a bracketed wooden cornice, and original cast ironwork, featuring substantial railings and newel posts. The property also boasts modern amenities such as a hot tub in the flagstone-covered backyard and energy-efficient windows, which were installed prior to the 2012 extension of the landmark district. Inside, the residence retains a wealth of original details that contribute to its historic character. Notable features include five incised white marble mantels, a grand wood staircase with carved newel posts and a curving railing, extensive original hardwood floors, and intricate plasterwork, such as crown molding and medallions. The house also features period-appropriate elements like pocket doors and a stained-glass skylight. The double parlors and the garden-floor dining room are largely intact, preserving their original charm. The rear parlor is enhanced by a fireplace flanked by built-in bookcases and cupboards, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The kitchen, situated in its traditional location at the rear of the garden level, maintains wood floors and a tin ceiling. It has been updated with modern conveniences, including a large stainless steel stove and contemporary cabinets lining two walls. The upper floor of the brownstone accommodates three bedrooms and a versatile office-slash-laundry room. The front master bedroom has been reconfigured into two smaller bedrooms and a walk-in closet, utilizing colorful modern shelving as a divider. While these shelves offer an attractive modern touch, a prospective buyer might consider reverting the space to its original master bedroom layout and converting the office/laundry room back into a small third bedroom or storage area. Functionality is further enhanced by two updated bathrooms, one on the parlor floor and another on the bedroom floor. These spacious bathrooms feature bathtubs and classic decor. One bathroom is designed with vintage-style black and white tile floors, while the other incorporates gray and white tiles, a marble-topped vanity, built-in cabinets, and a skylight, providing ample natural light. The property appears to be in move-in condition based on available photographs. Mechanical systems have also been updated, with a new gas furnace, electrical wiring, and plumbing, according to the listing. Public records indicate that the property has been under the ownership of the same family since at least 1977. The listing is managed by Aran Scott, Anthony Robles, and James Vallejos of Douglas Elliman. #ParkSlope #Brownstone #NeoGrecArchitecture #HistoricDistrict #RealEstateBrooklyn #LuxuryHome #HomeDetails #RenovatedHome

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

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

Award-winning photographer Steven Laxton undertook a significant DIY renovation of his three-story early 20th-century home in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, after realizing it was not as move-in ready as he initially believed when he purchased it in 2016. The extensive renovation, much of which was completed during the 2020 lockdown, included replacing floorboards, switching out doors with salvaged antique ones, and paving the back garden. A major focus of the project involved stripping layers of paint from historical woodwork, such as the pier mirror and staircase, to restore them to their natural wood finish. Laxton chose the Cypress Hills location due to its proximity to Highland Park, a 643-acre green space, which offers park views from some rooms and is a significant amenity for him. Despite the four-bedroom, 3.5-bath house being larger than he needs as a single occupant, he has enjoyed decorating the various rooms with his distinct arty style, occasionally renting them out for additional income. His design approach emphasizes bold colors, unique vintage finds, and quirky lighting elements. In the entry foyer, Laxton painstakingly removed multiple layers of paint from a carved door to reveal the natural wood. He is an enthusiastic collector of period lighting and furniture, often sourcing pieces online and in person. For example, a High Victorian piece is featured in the entry foyer. His philosophy is to acquire "interesting things that are solid and well made and have some personality to them." The parlor level of the house was already partially open-plan, with wide openings between rooms and a removed wall separating the kitchen and dining area. The living room blends contemporary and vintage items, featuring a sofa from CB2, artwork by Bryan James, and a chandelier from Restoration Hardware. Mid-century reissues, such as a Noguchi coffee table and a Mies van der Rohe tubular steel chair, are also present, alongside a distinctive brass lamp found on Facebook Marketplace. In the kitchen, Laxton updated the backsplash, faucet, and cabinet hardware. As a photographer, he emphasizes layered lighting, preferring not to use the existing recessed ceiling lights, stating that "Lighting can completely change a space." Chandeliers are used as sculptural elements throughout the home. The artwork displayed is a mix of his own creations, friends' work, and pieces he has acquired. An existing sunroom off the back of the house features a 1950s dinette set, one of the few items Laxton brought from his previous apartment, offering a view of greenery. The powder room on the parlor floor is decorated with thrifted vintage portraits, chosen purely for their whimsical appeal. Upstairs, each bedroom and a reading room has a unique character, achieved through bold wallpaper, deep paint colors, vibrant bed linens, and additional vintage lighting. Laxton completely renovated the top-floor bathroom, combining vintage and new fixtures. A red bedroom on the lower level, described as "a world unto itself," showcases his incremental design process. This room includes two early 1960s George Mulhauser lounge chairs, sourced from different states, and vintage lamps found online. A 19th-century Chinese carved wood piece serves as a distinctive wall decoration. The backyard, originally just dirt, was transformed by Laxton with laid pavers, a 6-foot-high privacy fence made of horizontal wood slats, and a picnic table constructed from leftover wood. He considers this outdoor space a valuable investment, utilizing it for outdoor dining and entertaining throughout the summer months. The project highlights Laxton's hands-on approach to home renovation and decoration, reflecting his personal style through a curated collection of vintage and contemporary elements. #CypressHills #HomeRenovation #DIYDesign #VintageStyle #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #SalvagedItems #LayeredLighting #StevenLaxton

In the vibrant Greenpoint section of Brooklyn, a creative couple, Jill Magid, a conceptual artist, and Jonny Bauer, an advertising executive, embarked on a significant remodel of their row house. This property, originally a workman’s cottage, underwent a head-to-toe transformation completed in mid-2013, blending its historical essence with modern design sensibilities. The exterior of the home immediately signals its updated character through subtle yet impactful design choices. For instance, the house numbers, a sleek neon '175' rendered in a sans serif font, serve as a modern beacon on a street otherwise characterized by more traditional architecture. This miniature, functional art piece, created by Magid herself, hints at the artistic and thoughtful approach taken throughout the renovation. The project focused on preserving the historic 'bones' of the structure while introducing contemporary interior updates to suit the couple's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This careful balance ensures that the home respects its past as a workman's cottage but simultaneously functions as a modern family residence. The renovation involved a comprehensive overhaul, from structural adjustments to the selection of finishes and fixtures, all designed to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of the space. The integration of modern elements, such as the distinctive neon house numbers and potentially other interior design features, contrasts with the traditional brick siding, creating a unique visual identity for the property. The article highlights how the couple approached the renovation, suggesting a collaborative effort that infused their individual creative and professional backgrounds into the home's design. The choice of materials, color palettes, and spatial arrangements would have been meticulously considered to achieve a harmonious blend of old and new. This thoughtful renovation process aims to create a living space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for a contemporary family. The remodel transforms the historic dwelling into a personalized sanctuary that reflects the artistic inclinations of its owners while maintaining a connection to its architectural heritage. Ultimately, the project in Greenpoint serves as an example of how historic properties can be revitalized through careful and creative renovation. By updating the interior while honoring the original structure, Magid and Bauer have created a home that stands out with its unique blend of artistic expression and historical charm. The narrative implicitly suggests that the renovation involved strategic decisions to modernize living spaces, improve natural light, and optimize the layout, all contributing to a more comfortable and visually engaging environment. The home becomes a testament to how art and design can elevate everyday living within an urban historical context. #BrooklynHome #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriorDesign #Greenpoint #ArtisticHome #RowHouseRenovation #CreativeCouple #UrbanDesign

The article details a design project undertaken by Emma Beryl Kemper of Emma Beryl, a New York City design studio, to transform a two-bedroom Greenpoint duplex. The condo, originally created from a storefront in a vintage row house approximately a decade prior, was characterized by a cold, "cookie-cutter" aesthetic and lacked personalized touches for the young family residing there. The primary objective of the renovation was to infuse warmth and character into the space, making it feel more like a home, and to significantly enhance its functionality. One of the initial challenges involved the original kitchen, which featured only a single wall of cabinetry and an island. Beryl reconfigured this area, adding a wine bar with a glass cabinet to create a smoother transition between the functional kitchen space and the open living room, integrating it more effectively with the adjacent dining area. Beyond the kitchen, the project focused on maximizing storage throughout the duplex. This included reconfiguring the upstairs bathroom and adding a shower to the downstairs powder room, thereby converting it into a full bath. Custom built-ins were designed for an awkward downstairs room, which served the dual purpose of concealing plumbing pipes and creating a cozy nursery for the family. To achieve the desired warmth and character, the design incorporated vintage pieces, hand-painted tiles, and a selection of specific furnishings and materials. Manhattan-based Jan Renovations carried out all the new construction work, including custom millwork. In the open living room, a vintage rug from ABC Carpet, a grasscloth-covered media unit, and a new sofa from Restoration Hardware were combined with the clients' existing coffee table and chairs. The floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, which made the living room feel exposed, were addressed by adding a built-in window seat with integrated storage, creating a barrier and softening the space with curtains. A custom-built narrow bookcase in the corner was installed to hide wires. The dining area features a built-in banquette that conceals a steel rail for the downstairs staircase, also providing additional storage. Rejuvenation chairs accompany a wooden farmhouse-style table, complemented by a West Elm chandelier. A wooden desk from Restoration Hardware is positioned alongside the dining area. The kitchen was enlarged while maintaining its general location, featuring a contrast of white upper cabinets and open shelves with dark navy lower cabinetry. Carrara marble countertops and handmade tiles on the backsplash were significant upgrades. The master bedroom, being small, was designed to maximize openness, with custom floating nightstands and walls painted in a moody dark hue. Lutron shades were installed for privacy on the frosted storefront windows. The door to the upstairs bathroom was relocated to the front entry, necessitating a complete change in the room's footprint. The bathroom's color scheme aligns with the kitchen and master bedroom, incorporating patterned floor tiles from Tabarka Studio and custom-made wall tiles to match the blue in the flooring. A Restoration Hardware vanity and Cedar & Moss sconce completed the new bathroom. On the lower level, a custom-built angled closet provides linen and coat storage. The downstairs nursery features a bi-level window seat, a long wall of storage, and a floor-to-ceiling closet, all custom-built from lacquered wood to conceal mechanicals while allowing access. Distinctive wallpaper from Hygge & West and Dwell Studio baby furnishings enhance the space. A shower was added to the downstairs bathroom by utilizing space beneath the staircase, with a sink from Restoration Hardware and floor tile from Wayfair. The article also mentions the availability of before-and-after photos to illustrate the transformation. #InteriorDesign #Greenpoint #CondoRenovation #EmmaBeryl #CustomMillwork #BrooklynDesign #HomeTransformation

The article details the renovation of a vintage three-story row house in Prospect Lefferts Gardens (PLG), led by Brooklyn-based architectural practice Studio Officina. The project was initiated by new homeowners who expressed a strong preference for vibrant colors in their interior design, a departure from currently popular monochromatic schemes. However, the renovation faced significant initial challenges, as extensive structural issues, including considerable termite damage and unresolved leaks, were discovered after demolition began. These issues necessitated the replacement of numerous joists on each floor, delaying the implementation of the homeowners' colorful vision. Once the structural repairs were completed, Studio Officina proceeded with the comprehensive renovation of the parlor level and the addition of a new bathroom on the top floor. The original layout of the 50-foot-long structure, which had been a two-family residence, featured four rooms per floor with two internal rooms and a meandering corridor, creating a somewhat inefficient and disjointed feel. The architectural team retained but modified the long hallway on the parlor floor, strategically narrowing the middle rooms to integrate a coat closet, a new powder room, and pantry storage. This adjustment aimed to enhance functionality and flow within the space. The core of the aesthetic design revolved around the bold use of paint and tile. The homeowners’ desire for color was met with unabashedly bold primary hues, meticulously balanced with substantial amounts of white to prevent the spaces from feeling overwhelming. The architect emphasized that at eye level, even in the hallway, white surfaces largely dominate the visual field, providing a clean contrast to the vibrant accents. A notable design element is the use of patterned tiles from the Margherita range by Mutina, designed by Natalie du Pasquier, a co-founder of the 1980s design collective Memphis, available through Stone Source. These tiles are featured prominently throughout the project. Specific design choices highlight the colorful theme. The staircase structure was painted a vivid blue, tempered by white wainscoting. The front parlor, serving as the living room, features walls painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stirabout, a neutral earthy tone, complementing a brown velvet sofa from Sarah Ellison, which was one of the few new furniture purchases. The kitchen, a central focus, was designed around the clients' specific request for a "pink kitchen" from "Day One." This vision materialized with a pink Samsung Bespoke refrigerator and custom cabinetry by Jon Besch. A backsplash of zellige tile from Zia Tile and natural wood elements, including open cubbies and a cabinet, were incorporated to provide textural variation and prevent the pink from dominating the space. Countertops are stone slabs from Geraci Stone Gallery, and pendant lights above the kitchen island were crafted by one of the homeowners, a ceramic artist. The dining area, adjacent to the kitchen, was created by removing a load-bearing wall to establish a wider, more open space. A Noguchi Akari light fixture illuminates the dining table. The newly added powder room and upstairs bathroom also showcase the project’s commitment to distinctive tile work. The powder room features graphic wall and floor tiles from Mutina’s Margherita line, while the upstairs bath includes a vanity from Alape and Pixel tile from Italian supplier 41zero42. Studio Officina also utilized an existing light well, enlarging it to accommodate a new skylight, enhancing natural light in the new bathroom. The article concludes by noting that until all rooms are renovated, the homeowners' children are given artistic freedom on the walls, underscoring the family-centric and personalized approach to the home’s ongoing evolution. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ProspectLeffertsGardens #StudioOfficina #BrooklynRealEstate #TileDesign #StructuralRepair #CustomCabinetry

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

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

A townhouse located at 319 East 51st Street in Manhattan's Beekman enclave, Midtown East, has been listed for $14.5 million following a comprehensive gut renovation. Previously acquired by hedge fund executive Timothy Greatorex and his wife Deborah Greatorex for $4.6 million in 2011, the property has undergone significant luxurious upgrades. The residence spans 6,500 square feet across five floors, featuring five bedrooms and five bathrooms. The parlor floor is characterized by an expansive open-plan design, highlighted by an 18-foot glass wall at the rear that offers views of a Japanese garden. Interior details on this floor include herringbone floors, custom millwork, and a wet bar, with ample space to accommodate a grand piano. The ground floor houses the kitchen, dining room, and a den, which also benefits from a wall of glass opening onto a 600-square-foot Japanese-style garden. This outdoor space is described as achieving a balance between luxury and tranquility. The third floor is dedicated entirely to the master suite. This suite features pearl beaded wallpaper, wall-to-wall carpeting, and a remote-controlled gas fireplace. It also includes a dressing room equipped with nine closets. The master bathroom is a focal point, with a marble tub carved from a single stone, set on hand-laid mosaic tiles. Additional amenities in the master bathroom consist of a large shower, a double vanity with a make-up station, radiant heated floors, and three windows for natural light. Ascending the grand staircase to the fourth and fifth floors reveals the remaining four bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. These upper levels also include an office space, designed with paneling suitable for a hedge fund manager, and a private terrace. The property also boasts a furnished roof deck, although it is not explicitly pictured in the provided description. The exterior of the townhouse maintains its historic character, which complements the extensively renovated and luxurious interior. The renovation has significantly elevated the property's standard of luxury, making it a notable offering in the Midtown East real estate market. The listing for 319 East 51st Street is handled by the Margolis Team for Douglas Elliman, with photos courtesy of Douglas Elliman. #LuxuryRealEstate #Townhouse #GutRenovation #MidtownEast #Manhattan #JapaneseGarden #MasterSuite #ArchitecturalDesign