More Inside of David Harbour and Lily Allen’s “Weird and Wonderful” Brooklyn Town House

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

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

A circa 1824 brick townhouse in Brooklyn Heights, formerly owned by landscape designer Alice Ireys, underwent a decorative makeover by Brooklyn-based design studio White Arrow for a family with two school-age children. The homeowners desired a design that honored the home's history while incorporating a fresh, modern sensibility, with a particular appreciation for cozy, antique elements and the simplicity of modern design. Keren Richter, co-founder and principal designer of White Arrow, aimed to create interiors that felt rooted in tradition yet updated for a young family. This project was a decorative overhaul rather than a gut renovation, as the townhouse's historical integrity, including Federal-era details like the newel post, stair, and parlor moldings, had been well-preserved by the previous owner. The structure, mechanical systems, and the four-story layout were suitable for a family of four, described by Richter as not overly grand, allowing for an intimate living experience. The design approach was strategic, focusing on enhancing existing features and introducing new decorative elements. Inspired by British decorating aesthetics, characterized by pattern mixing, florals, and a sense of coziness, White Arrow removed old wallpaper, repainted walls, and introduced layered lighting. Most of the furnishings were new acquisitions. The front parlor, designated as an adult entertaining space, features a crescent-shaped green velvet sofa and a Kant coffee table by RW Guild, chosen for their curvilinear forms to promote gathering and a convivial atmosphere. The room's white paint was selected to highlight the patterning of the antique fireplace tiles, avoiding visual clutter that wallpaper might introduce. The entry hall includes a Sawkille Rabbit bench beneath a contemporary photograph by Dean West. The rear parlor houses the formal dining room, which is adorned with hand block-printed wallpaper by Marthe Armitage for Hamilton Weston. A custom O’lampia chandelier illuminates a Nickey Kehoe Harvest dining table and Svenskt Tenn dining chairs. A modernist console and various artworks were brought by the homeowners from their previous residence. The garden level hosts the kitchen in the center, with a dining/breakfast area at the rear and a children's play area at the front. The kitchen cabinets are painted a pale blue from Fine Paints of Europe, complemented by Gordon stools from Lostine and rattan cone lights from Soane. The family dining area, situated at the rear of the garden level, opens to the backyard through sliding glass doors and features a round Bobbin table by Alfred Newall. A boldly striped stair runner connects the four floors of the house, adding a consistent design element. The second floor includes a sitting/family room adjacent to the primary bedroom. This room, painted in a deep blue, is conceived as an evening space with ample seating, including a rolled-arm sectional and a Chinese Art Deco rug. The dark color scheme in this room is intended to create a cozy, English library-like atmosphere and discreetly camouflage the television. The primary bedroom is furnished with a Kyma headboard by Ensemblier and a Nickey Kehoe bench upholstered in striped fabric by Flora Soames. The main bathroom retained its existing claw-foot bathtub and blue painted floors, requiring minimal intervention. The children’s top-floor bedrooms feature dormer windows, with the daughter's room enveloped in Svensk Tenn botanical wallpaper and the son's room decorated with bold primary colors, both designed to create lasting memories. #BrooklynHeights #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #EnglishDesign #WhiteArrow #HistoricHome #DecorativeMakeover #FamilyHome #TraditionalModernBlend

This article explores a historic 1920s double-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of New York City, which served as the 47th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House. The clients purchased the entire building after attending the show house, initiating a gut renovation led by Francis Nicdao, principal designer and chief creative officer of Pembrooke & Ives, and Stephanie Sarkies-Schabot, the firm's managing director of decorating. The renovation, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to create a family home capable of displaying a vast, museum-quality art and antique collection without feeling overly formal. The design achieved a balance between contemporary cleanliness and traditional detailing, respecting the building's historical character. The entryway features checkerboard marble flooring and a spectacular spiral staircase connecting five of the six levels, designed to facilitate a smooth transition to vertical living. The living room, expansive due to the home's double-wide layout, is furnished with collectible design pieces and art, creating a grand and impactful atmosphere. Gold accents add a glamorous edge to a soft color palette. The combined breakfast and family room functions as the home's hub, with a custom back-to-back sofa dividing dining and lounge areas. This space, which opens into the kitchen, incorporates rich textures and blue hues, overlooked by Ralph Goings's artwork, _Tom’s Diner_. The kitchen, located on the entry floor, was designed for high functionality and ease of maintenance, with easily cleanable surfaces and ample counter space. Its blue island and barstools create a cohesive connection with the adjacent breakfast room. The wine cellar and wet bar, located in the basement and dining room respectively, demonstrate that even lower-level spaces can be glamorous, featuring specialty lighting for the wine display and a high-gloss blue paint with a mirrored backsplash in the wet bar. The primary suite, one of seven bedrooms, offers a dreamy ambiance with pink details and natural light enhancing its glow. The unique layout connects the bedroom to a walk-in closet and bathroom through a windowed corridor along the back facade. A guest bedroom provides a relaxing retreat with a neutral color palette, plush carpeting, embroidered drapery, a custom upholstered headboard, and a high-gloss wall finish. The primary bathroom integrates decorative lighting as a focal point, with a stunning chandelier and sconces, alongside symmetrical design and stone detailing for a luxurious and modern feel. Finally, the backyard patio, designed by landscape architect Luciano Guibbilei, serves as a “zen-like enclave” in the city, covering approximately 1,500 square feet and featuring a mural by artist Annie Morris, providing a serene outdoor escape. #NewYorkCity #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HistoricPreservation #ArtCollection #PembrookeAndIves #KipsBayShowHouse #HomeDecor

The 2024 Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse, located at a landmarked four-story Greek Revival townhouse at 182 Clinton Street, opened to the public and will run through November 3. Benefiting the Brooklyn Heights Association, the showhouse features rooms envisioned by various local interior designers, transforming the mid-19th-century dwelling with inventive and colorful vignettes. The house, historically part of “Doctors’ Row” and later home to the Penny Bridge Opera Company and Alcoholics Anonymous founder Bill Wilson, now showcases a diverse range of design aesthetics. Jennifer Morris of JMorris Design created an enchanted forest theme for the entry area and original staircase, inspired by local green spaces. She commissioned a 33-panel mural from Brooklyn maker Eskayel, which wraps the vestibule, entry hall, and lower floors, transitioning to a pale limewash on upper levels. Mossy green carpet on each floor enhances the illusion of a natural canopy. Allegra O. Eifler designed the front parlor, blending sophistication with casual elements. The room’s salmon wall color was inspired by the original marble mantel. Slipcovered seating with custom button details and antique wood pieces are arranged minimally on flatweave rugs, complemented by a gilded chandelier made of pressed metal leaves, adding a touch of lightness to the traditionally formal space. Steven Walsh’s rear parlor draws inspiration from Hubert de Givenchy's 1970s Paris apartment, exuding a glamorous yet refined ambiance. Faux suede wallcovering, a backless daybed, black leather club chairs, rose gold-plated nesting tables, and an abstract painting create an inviting and impressive space for entertaining. On the second floor, Lynn Kloythanomsup of Landed Interiors envisioned the primary bedroom as a late-summer meadow. This concept is brought to life through extraordinary bas-relief plaster ornamentation by Brooklyn-based Arkada Plus, depicting wildflowers and wheatgrass. A woven leather headboard by Jim Zivic Design, a Josef Hoffmann chandelier, and an Arts and Crafts-era chair add contrast, while a steel floor lamp introduces an unexpected element. Isy’s Interiors designed the en suite primary bathroom, incorporating a leafy Rebel Walls pattern to align with the house's overall forest theme. The designers worked with existing beige travertine countertops and floors, adding playful scalloped backsplash tiles and deep green-painted wood window shutters to enhance the space. Sisters Parul Jain Ghei and Kanika Jain Gupta of Studio Jai created a dramatic and functional writer’s study. Dark blue-green wallpaper from Ever Atelier, a chandelier with pastel glass discs by Tracy Glover Studio, and custom millwork with hidden desktops and bookshelves define the space. Whimsical art and accessories, such as a Hansel-and-Gretel candelabra by Nicholas Devlin, complete the room. Megan Prime and Joe McGuier of JAM crafted a "Midnight Study" with bold red-orange wallpaper, a William Morris carpet, and an asymmetrical amber marble mantel of their own design. The room features a 1930s Swedish cabinet, wood ceiling trim, and Art Deco plaster crown molding. A 1970s French table lamp and a cocktail bar, converted from a closet with gilded walls and a furry rug, showcase their unique approach to vintage finds and bespoke elements. Jennifer and Albe Angulo of Casa Angulo furnished a top-floor study for a creative individual using pieces sourced from live auctions. The room, described as a collector’s trove, includes an antique secretary desk, a shearling-covered Danish sofa, a Kandinsky-inspired wall hanging, 19th-century footstools, and a 1950s Gino Sarfatti pendant light, all anchored by an antique Persian rug. Rebecca Amir designed a charming and versatile children’s room with a blue-gray palette. The room features a canopy bed with a Schumacher print and an ethereal floral mural by Robert Christian on closet doors. Inspired by Block Island, the design incorporates white shiplap on the ceiling, shutters, and vintage white wicker furniture. Alyssa Alon of Alon Studio transformed a ground-floor powder room and a skylit top-floor bath. The upstairs bath, previously pink, now features waterproof tadelakt plaster, a marble vanity shelf, egg-and-dart molding, and brass sconces from Rosie Li Studio. Kate McElhiney took a practical approach to an existing top-floor bath, using Venetian plaster walls and “rental hacks” such as a Velcro-attached vanity skirt, battery-powered sconces, and a fabric window treatment using tension rods. Shapeless Studio created a nocturnal fantasy in the ground-floor mudroom, featuring a ceiling dusted with silver stars, polished brass wall hooks, a mural by children’s book illustrator Esmé Shapiro, a large Calacatta Viola marble bench, and a hand-carved sculptural screen by James Harmon, replacing a stair rail. Rinehardt | Miller Interiors designed a dining room/lounge on the garden level, prioritizing books, art, and conversation. A blue velvet banquette, a gleaming double-pedestal table, a striped velvet swivel chair, and an open expanse of ruddy textured carpet define the space. A neon sign above the mantel, reading “It was all a dream,” adds a celebratory touch. Ingui Architecture and BIA Interiors renovated the kitchen at the rear of the garden level, transforming it from white-on-white to a rich, deep emerald. The design emphasizes luxury and elevation, with two-tone limestone floors, a marble island with triple-bullnose edging, and vertically ribbed glass behind backlit shelving. Sliding glass doors connect the kitchen to the backyard. Project Plant designed the back garden with four tiers of expansive limestone hardscaping, offering a breathing space for city dwellers. Seasonal goldenrod and rudbeckia, ferns, and shade-tolerant species create a living canvas, complemented by acuba along a butter-colored back wall. Hormuz Batliboi of Batliboi Studio conjured an atmospheric plum-colored media room in the subterranean cellar. The room features crimson drapes, plush tiered seating with child-size nooks, and state-of-the-art hexagonal speakers disguised as wall art. A turntable for vinyl records and the immersive feel evoke an old-time movie palace, blending modern technology with nostalgic elements. The showhouse is open Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Thursdays until 8 p.m., through November 3. General admission is $50, with discounts for BHA members and students. Proceeds support the Brooklyn Heights Association's community initiatives, including plans for the BQE reconstruction and small business development on Montague Street. #BrooklynHeightsShowhouse #InteriorDesign #GreekRevivalTownhouse #BespokeDetails #LocalDesigners #HomeDecor #Renovation #ArchitecturalGrandeur #DesignImagination

The article details the renovation of a redbrick townhouse in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, by the design firm White Arrow. The project aimed to preserve the home's historic character while enhancing its modern functionality for a contemporary family. The renovation commenced with significant architectural alterations, including a 10-foot extension and a complete redesign of the rear facade. White Arrow's distinctive design philosophy is evident throughout the home, beginning with the parlor floor. This area features a sophisticated palette of moody wall colors and custom-built millwork, establishing a refined atmosphere. A notable addition is a dramatic bar, elegantly clad in Waterworks marble and accented with Classic Brass hardware, illuminated by sculptural sconces designed by Sophie Lou Jacobsen. The dining area is designed to integrate with the outdoors, with a glass wall offering views of the garden. However, the interior elements quickly capture attention, including bespoke cabinetry crafted by White Arrow, Maison Jansen brass sconces, and a floral painting by Lizzie Gill. An Anna Karlin chandelier hangs above a walnut dining table, complemented by a handcrafted Zia Tile Zellige floor that introduces an artisanal touch. The kitchen, while maintaining traditional structural elements, is executed with an airy and modern aesthetic, incorporating stone countertops, Water Monopoly plumbing fixtures, and a luxurious Lacanche oven. Moving to the private spaces, the bedrooms are characterized by a sense of understated luxury. The primary bedroom is distinguished by a 1950s Swedish chandelier and ceramic lamps, with an oak bed from Pinch flanked by a vintage Kjell Lönnblad painting and custom drapery from Carolina Irving Textiles. The guest bedroom fosters warmth through a wood-framed Woodbridge bed, vintage oak drawers, and 1950s opaline pendant lighting. Maine Cottage nightstands and oil paintings by Georges Darel and R Debray contribute to a nostalgic ambiance. The cellar has been transformed into a versatile retreat with an industrial aesthetic. It features Arthur Umanoff’s iron and rattan bar stools that add a retro flair, while Rejuvenation sconces highlight the darker tones of the space. A secondary living room on this level is furnished with a Rowe sectional, McGuire armchairs, and a vintage brass and opaline chandelier by Hans-Agne Jakobsson. The library, designed to feel intellectual, is filled with vintage finds, including a framed Elliott Erwitt photograph, a leather floor lamp by Lisa Johansson-Pape, and a reissued Jacques Adnet coffee table. The home includes two distinct bathrooms: a primary bathroom and a children's bathroom. The primary bathroom boasts a custom oak vanity, Apparatus sconces, and Lind and Almond medicine cabinets, all illuminated by an RW Guild flush mount light. The children's bathroom is designed with a playful and whimsical character, featuring yellow accents, bold Schumacher wallpaper, and a baby blue freestanding tub. Ultimately, each room in this Boerum Hill townhouse is curated to tell a unique story, rich with diverse textures, carefully selected objects, and intentional design choices. The overall result is a living space that feels simultaneously traditional and refined, yet avoids any sense of primness or conservatism, achieving a balance between historical reverence and contemporary living. #BrooklynTownhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #WhiteArrow #BoerumHill #LuxuryInteriors #CustomMillwork #VintageFurniture #ModernClassic #ArchitecturalRenovation

Architectural and interior design duo Arya and Michael Martin, founders of Studio OSKLO, have spent three years meticulously crafting their biophilic home in the Hollywood Hills. Their design philosophy focuses on integrating nature and minimalist aesthetics, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The property, located in the exclusive Doheny Estates, features an earthy color palette and natural materials, harmonizing with the surrounding granite hillside. The home incorporates elements typical of 1960s and 1970s Los Angeles architecture, such as architectural columns that conceal a series of interconnecting terraces accessible from every living space. A central atrium with a second-floor overlook brings greenery into the heart of the home, complemented by walls of rift oak and matte plaster detailing. Large retracting glass panels and expansive corridors create an open atmosphere, offering views of black olive trees, grasses, and aged stepping stones. The exterior uses white and cream tones to soften the columns, which are exposed to direct sunlight. Hinoki-inspired wooden paneling wraps the second-floor terraces to provide privacy. A limestone promenade leads to a zero-edge pool, a private dining garden with a fireplace, and a granite rock formation inspired by the luxury hotel Amangiri in Utah. Inside, the plasterwork is predominantly white, with exceptions in the taupe cloakroom and the oak-paneled TV room. The sitting room features a fireplace carved from a two-ton block of Paloma limestone, assembled on-site by 16 men. The kitchen boasts Calacatta Paonazzo marble, lending a vintage feel to the contemporary space, while a Calacatta gold marble bar adds warmth. Each bedroom is designed with a unique palette to enhance personality. The interiors are furnished with a rich mix of textures, including boucle, velvet, mohair, and linen. Irani carpets, inherited from Arya’s family, blend seamlessly with pieces by notable designers like Vladimir Kagan, Gio Ponti, and Rick Owens. The couple also incorporated collectibles from their travels to Madrid, São Paulo, and Marrakech, creating a curated global aesthetic. Many furniture pieces were custom-made by Studio OSKLO, characterized by gentle abstract shapes and textures. Accessories from Tokyo, sourced during their trips to Japan in 2021 and 2022, contribute an Eastern influence to the Los Angeles views. Pottery, 19th-century bronzes, and clay objects are artfully displayed on built-ins, shelving, and tabletops. The dining room features a Tamara de Lempicka artwork, and a 1960s-era bronze bust adorns the second-floor hallway, reflecting the Martins’ personal tastes and careful attention to every detail in their home. #BiophilicDesign #HollywoodHills #StudioOSKLO #MinimalistInteriors #NaturalMaterials #EarthyPalette #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesigners

The annual Real Simple Home event has transformed a historic Romanesque Revival row house at 1259 Dean Street in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, into a fully renovated and decorated show house. This impressive four-story residence, built around 1892, was purchased by Adam Dahill in 2012 and featured on the Crown Heights House Tour in 2013. After over a decade and a year of intensive construction, the townhouse has undergone a comprehensive restoration and redesign, spearheaded by AlexAllen Studio and numerous designers, including the Brooklyn-based Brownstone Boys (Jordan Slocum and Barry Bordelon). The renovation preserved many of the home's original features, such as intricate woodwork, carved wood mantels, and a striking onyx surround. The project focused on restoring these historical elements while integrating modern functionality and design. Key structural changes include moving the kitchen to the parlor level, adding exterior decks, and meticulously restoring the grand staircase to its original configuration. The designers drew inspiration from the house's existing details, particularly the vibrant stained glass in the front, which influenced the jewel tones used in the parlor's upholstered furniture, including a muted pink sofa and rusty-toned chairs. The parlor floor, primarily designed by the Brownstone Boys, showcases a harmonious blend of old and new. A previously overlooked area in the center of the house has been transformed into a cozy reading nook, featuring Umbria wallpaper by Spoonflower, printed on grasscloth, and period-appropriate embossed Lincrusta on the ceiling. The fretwork screen and the main stair were expertly restored by Omar Oulouah of Brooklyn Artisan Wood Crafts. The kitchen, a collaborative effort between AlexAllen Studio and the Brownstone Boys, beautifully juxtaposes refinished, elaborately carved woodwork with a contemporary marble island and countertops. A clever design choice involved placing the range and a modern white cube vent in a niche where a built-in bookcase once stood, making efficient use of space without disrupting the original architectural flow. Alexandra Burr of AlexAllen Studio emphasized the importance of integrating these original wooden elements into the kitchen's core design. The home also features unique design elements throughout. A butler’s pantry was painted a striking scarlet, inspired by a reddish-veined marble slab. The adjacent powder room includes Spoonflower wallpaper and a distinctive carved stone wall-hung sink sourced from Turkey. Outdoors, Brooklyn Grange, with Michelle Cashen, Ben Flanner, and Travers Martin, landscaped the garden and two newly added decks. The cellar, after receiving a vapor barrier and epoxy floor, was converted into a speakeasy by Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage. Upstairs, various designers contributed to the bedrooms and bathrooms, with Jessica Davis, Amber Guyton, Marrisa Hagmeyer and Ashley Murphy, Hema Persad, Jasmine Roth, and Mikel Welch each bringing their unique vision to different spaces. Sponsors like Pella Windows & Doors, Spoonflower, and Valspar supported the project. The show house is open for tours, with proceeds from ticket sales benefiting Win (Women in Need), New York City’s largest shelter and services nonprofit dedicated to homeless families. Adam Dahill, who has developed a reputation for historically sensitive brownstone renovations, plans to keep the house and eventually move back in with his family, currently residing in Prospect Heights. In the interim, he seeks a family to rent the upstairs portion of the revitalized property. #CrownHeights #RealSimpleHome #TownhouseRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #BrownstoneBoys #AlexAllenStudio #BrooklynRealEstate #Showhouse

Blair Harris Interior Design, a relatively new name in the New York design landscape, has completed a remarkable renovation of an Upper East Side townhouse. This project exemplifies sophisticated interior design, blending opulent textures, colors, and patterns to create an atmosphere of regal allure. The architectural elements of the townhouse, such as floor-to-ceiling windows, intricate ceiling medallions, detailed molding, and bespoke built-ins, provide a foundation for the luxurious aesthetic. The living room's design centers around a harmonious interplay of cool blue-purple tones and various shades of warm brown, which complement the dark hardwood floors. Large plantation shutters on the extensive front windows enhance the room's natural luminosity. Adjacent to the main living area is a secondary, less formal seating space, distinguished by a unique light fixture resembling a cactus or sea urchin. This fixture's angular design is softened by the plush textures of a wide sofa and chaise, while dark built-ins and an accent chair further enrich the space. The dining room echoes the color scheme of blue, purple, and warm browns. A substantial dark hardwood table, surrounded by opulent purple dining chairs, anchors the room. Light blue walls and glass chandeliers with an ice-like appearance contribute to a lighter, more inviting ambiance. The kitchen, in contrast, is characterized by its bright and airy feel, with white cabinets and a kitchen table that reflect the abundant natural sunlight. Light blue tiles provide a decorative accent on the kitchen walls. Throughout the townhouse, decorative elements such as low-relief designs on molding and ceilings, and intricately inlaid floor patterns, underscore the attention to detail. The stairwell, connecting the lower and upper levels, features a chic gold light fixture and a rich banister, adding to the home's overall elegance. The design team's approach has successfully integrated color, texture, and material into each room, crafting a cohesive and inviting narrative for the clients. #UpperEastSide #TownhouseDesign #BlairHarrisInteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #NewYorkDesign #InteriorDecoration #OpulentDetails

This article details the comprehensive renovation of an 1887 four-story Brooklyn Heights house, transformed from a multi-family dwelling previously owned by the Jehovah's Witnesses into a luxurious one-family residence. The property, located on a unique trapezoidal plot measuring 24 feet wide at one end and narrowing to 16 feet, presented significant architectural challenges. CWB Architects, based in Dumbo, was tasked with this extensive restoration, and the new homeowners allocated significant resources to achieve a high-end outcome. The renovation involved several major structural changes and aesthetic enhancements. A narrow four-story extension on the side of the house was demolished and replaced with a new building-wide, two-story wooden extension. This new addition was designed to evoke the enclosed tea porches popular in the mid-19th century. A significant structural issue arose during construction when the wall facing Joralemon Street was found to be collapsing, necessitating its complete rebuilding. Additionally, the interior floor framing required replacement. These unforeseen challenges extended the project duration by three months, bringing the total renovation time to approximately 18 months. The original interior details of the house were largely unsalvageable, with the exception of a single newel post. However, CWB Architects meticulously researched and replicated historical trim and casing styles to ensure the new details were historically accurate. The former clockwise-running oval-shaped staircase, though beautiful, was dilapidated and was rebuilt with a reversed orientation, which ingeniously allowed for the creation of a mudroom accessible via separate steps. All plumbing fixtures and finish materials were selected by CWB Architects, while Kelly Giesen of Kelly G Design handled the interior decoration of the 3,500-square-foot space. ABR Builders, LLC served as the general contractor for the project. Key interior features include an entry foyer adorned with patterned encaustic tile from Mosaic del Sur, and a custom mahogany island in the kitchen. The kitchen also features white granite slabs from Cancos Tile on the perimeter counters, Grove Brick tile from Waterworks in Sugar White for the backsplash, and cabinets painted with Farrow & Ball's Downpipe color. The parlor level boasts Carlisle wide plank white oak flooring. Above the parlor level, the flooring consists of 2-1/4" white oak, laid in a mix of herringbone pattern and straight-lay. The second floor accommodates a formal living room (piano noble) and a guest suite. The master bath is outfitted with Waterworks plumbing fixtures, Bardiglio mosaic marble on the tub area floor, and Carrara marble cladding the walls. The third-floor master suite incorporates extensive custom built-ins, and the top floor houses children's bedrooms within the original attic and hipped roof structure. The new two-story extension's design received unanimous approval from Landmarks. The outdoor space, designed by Urban Landscape Concepts, features a garden, a seating area, a parking court made of permeable pavers, and a custom fence crafted to complement the neighborhood's historic character. #BrooklynHeights #TownhouseRenovation #CWBArchitects #LuxuryHome #HistoricRestoration #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #BrownstoneLiving #NewYorkRealEstate

The new owners of a wood-frame rowhouse, initially covered in vinyl siding, approached architect Alexandra Barker with a 1940s New York City tax photo, aiming to restore the house's historical appearance while integrating their preference for modern design, ample light, and vibrant colors. Barker, from Barker Freeman Design Office, assured them that both traditional elements and contemporary details could be successfully combined. The extensive renovation involved replacing the vinyl siding with cedar, and installing larger windows on the parlor and basement levels to enhance natural light, a departure from the historical two-window configuration but essential for the owners' vision. Inside, the house lacked any original details worth preserving, except for a skylight featuring Crayola-colored glass panels. This skylight served as a central inspiration for incorporating bright, clear colors throughout the interior, manifested through accent walls, ceramic tiles, and furnishings. While some original interior framing was retained, all walls were rebuilt with Sheetrock, allowing for subtle adjustments to room proportions. The clients desired to keep some walls in their original layout, particularly the one separating the front hall from the main living space on the parlor floor. New pocket doors were strategically installed here and elsewhere to offer flexibility in closing off spaces, featuring simple French doors with large glass lights and a minimalist design. The rear wall of the parlor floor was replaced with commercial storefront glazing, finished in anodized aluminum, to further open up the space. The exterior features a traditional cornice, window moldings, and a salvaged double front door, maintaining a connection to the circa-1940 aesthetic. The white cedar clapboard siding, sealed to preserve its natural hue, represents a modern approach to the facade. The front entry hall incorporates gray-blue painted stair risers, a newel post and balusters in a historic style, while the original staircase was preserved. The existing flooring underwent sanding, bleaching, and pickling. The central part of the parlor floor functions as a family/media room, marked by a blue sofa. The fireplace area features reclaimed brick veneer on the chimney breast and a canister fuel source hearth cabinet. Custom consoles and walnut shelves were crafted by CK Construction, with furnishings selected by the homeowner with Barker's guidance. The kitchen on the parlor floor utilizes IKEA cabinet boxes with custom Semihandmade fronts in walnut and white. Ann Sacks Lucien glass tile serves as the backsplash, and Basalto floor tile from Complete Tile was installed. The back wall employs a commercial storefront system by Arcadia Inc. A small powder room on the parlor floor is distinguished by red Ann Sacks tile, a Duravit sink, and a custom walnut countertop. The top floor accommodates a master bedroom with a full-height storage wall, a master bathroom, two children's rooms, and a small children's bath with green Ann Sacks tile. The basement level features a painted and waterproofed textured stone foundation wall, a new wood floor that extends to form the side of the staircase with hidden storage, and a layout that positions mechanicals centrally to maximize natural light in front and rear rooms. A home office and a guest room are also located in the basement. The rear facade presents a more contemporary look with tongue-and-groove white cedar planks and anodized aluminum windows and doors. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #EastWilliamsburg #Rowhouse #ModernTraditionalMix #AlexandraBarker #ArchitecturalDesign #BrooklynHomes

Sarah Southwell, a former handbag designer, has transitioned her creative flair from fashion to interior design, establishing her studio in 2020 after a series of successful home renovations in London. Her most ambitious project to date is her family home, a 21-room Grade II-listed manor house located in the Somerset Levels. This extensive renovation showcases Southwell's distinctive approach to country style, characterized by a blend of elegance, eccentricity, and a 'generational layering' philosophy that expertly combines old and new elements. Sarah and her husband, Nick, acquired the manor in 2021, moving from London to provide their three sons with a more spacious environment. Despite being warned by the estate agent about the significant renovation required, the couple was drawn to the property's original features, such as its mullioned windows and historic front door. The renovation process was comprehensive, addressing issues ranging from hundred-year-old plumbing and crumbling plaster to the complete absence of a heating system. With the assistance of approximately 20 local tradespeople and funds from their previous London property sale, they undertook the extensive overhaul, including replastering all rooms with traditional lime, a necessity for listed buildings. Southwell's design aesthetic prioritizes a 'perfectly imperfect' look. She achieved this by using lime-based paint throughout the house, mimicking the mottled tones of plaster. The kitchen features Bauwerk’s Ibiza limewash, reclaimed pine floorboards, British Standard units, and Arabescato marble worktops, creating a contemporary yet classic feel. An adjoining utility space adds a playful touch with units painted in deVOL’s Scullery Yellow. The home is adorned with unique finds from flea markets and antique fairs, reflecting Sarah's passion for vintage items, such as a Transylvanian hand-painted folk art cupboard in the playroom and 18th-century Indian doors repurposed for the master bathroom. Creative and whimsical elements are evident throughout the manor, particularly in the children's spaces. The bedroom shared by Sarah's two eldest sons boasts a circus-themed ceiling painted by Eugenia Barrios Osborne, complemented by custom-made bed canopies and antique furniture sourced from local dealers. The color palette in this room includes Farrow & Ball's Rectory Red and Babouche mustard-yellow. A notable feature of the home is its incorporation of 'hidden nooks and secret doorways,' a reflection of Southwell's design philosophy that a house, much like a handbag, benefits from concealed compartments. An example is a hidden cubbyhole in a former attic, accessible via a wooden ladder, designed to create a magical space for her sons. Additionally, a hidden drinks bar is cleverly camouflaged by wallpaper in the downstairs lavatory, adding a surprising element for adult guests. Following the completion of this significant renovation, Sarah Southwell now leverages her expertise to assist other clients in realizing their design aspirations, operating with a comprehensive approach to interior styling. #InteriorDesign #ManorRenovation #CountryStyle #HistoricHome #LimeWashPaint #VintageFinds #HiddenSpaces #FamilyHome #EclecticDecor

This article highlights a two-bedroom corner condominium located at 29 Tiffany Place in Brooklyn's Columbia Street Waterfront district. The residence is a warehouse conversion that seamlessly blends rustic structural elements with sophisticated, custom renovations. The home features 11-foot ceilings and expansive oversized windows equipped with attractive wood blinds. These design choices complement the exposed post-and-beam construction and original wood details, maintaining the building's historical character while introducing modern comforts. The interior design incorporates a diverse color palette, transitioning from serene grays to a distinctive Tiffany blue, which adds a unique touch to the living space. The kitchen has undergone a recent renovation, featuring new GE appliances, including a range and refrigerator, a GE dishwasher, and sleek quartz countertops. A wooden breakfast bar serves as a functional and aesthetic divider between the kitchen and the generously proportioned, open-plan living room, fostering a sense of continuity and spaciousness. Attention to detail is evident throughout the condominium, particularly in the bedrooms. The master bedroom is painted in a pale Farrow & Ball gray, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Storage solutions have been carefully considered, with custom walk-in his-and-hers closets designed by transFORM, maximizing organizational efficiency. The second bedroom is also equipped with optimized storage, featuring closets designed by transFORM, along with additional coat and storage closets to meet diverse storage needs. The bathroom is presented as fresh and modern, characterized by ample natural light, contributing to a bright and inviting environment. Beyond the individual unit, the building offers a range of desirable amenities, enhancing the living experience for residents. These include a well-equipped gym, a communal roof deck offering scenic views, convenient laundry facilities, and additional storage options. The presence of a live-in superintendent ensures prompt assistance and maintenance, while a dedicated bike room caters to residents' cycling needs. This condominium at 29 Tiffany Place represents a harmonious blend of historical architecture, modern renovation, and practical amenities, making it a distinctive offering in the Columbia Street Waterfront neighborhood. #BrooklynRealEstate #CondominiumLiving #WarehouseConversion #ColumbiaStreetWaterfront #InteriorDesign #CustomRenovation #TiffanyPlace #NYCRealEstate #RusticModern

Ensemble Architecture undertook a comprehensive renovation of a late-19th-century wood-frame townhouse in Williamsburg, transforming it into a loft-like duplex for the owner and incorporating a separate rental unit on the ground floor. The project involved replacing every wall, ceiling, stair, floor, and window, alongside installing all-new mechanical systems. A notable feature of the property was its original 25-foot width and a historic passageway, once used for horses, which Ensemble Architecture ingeniously integrated into the new design. This former horse passageway was utilized for storage in the ground-floor rental unit, while on the upper levels, it contributed additional width to the owner's living space. This extra width allowed the designers to implement an unconventional stair placement, rotating it and pulling it away from the wall to run perpendicular to the typical direction, thereby significantly opening up the interior space. The custom steel and wood staircase now acts as a natural divider on the parlor level, separating the front living room from the dining room and kitchen located at the rear, which provides garden access through three new doors. The clients, involved in the music industry, desired a rustic-industrial aesthetic. This was achieved by exposing the existing wood ceiling joists on the parlor level and installing new reclaimed wood floors throughout the home, sourced from Tall Cotton Supply. The removal of dropped ceilings also helped to achieve considerable ceiling height in the parlor. Ensemble Architecture, founded by Elizabeth Roberts in 1998, also provided interior design services for the project. The living area features simple furnishings, including a pouf upholstered in Moroccan fabric and a vintage Moroccan rug. The custom steel staircase, with its thick solid-wood treads, was expertly fabricated by the general contractor, Tjun Industries, demonstrating high-quality millwork and metalwork. Basic porcelain lights, equipped with dimmers, are discreetly placed between the ceiling joists. In the dining area, mid-20th-century teak and woven wicker chairs complement a pedestal table designed by Eero Saarinen for Knoll. The compact kitchen is outfitted with a stainless steel Elkay sink, a Blanco Meridian faucet from Ferguson, and Metro subway tile from Nemo Tile. Pendant lights from ABC Carpet & Home illuminate the kitchen island, which features a Caesarstone countertop. A Wolf range completes the kitchen's amenities. A sliding barn door provides access to the master bedroom at the top of the stairs. The bathroom features a custom-built vanity by the general contractor, topped with black granite from C&B Marble. Kohler undermount sinks are paired with circular mirrored medicine cabinets from Home Depot and sconces from Schoolhouse Electric. Wall and floor tiles are from Nemo Tile, and California Faucets shower fixtures were sourced from Davis & Warshow. The entire renovation resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically cohesive home that respects its historical origins while embracing modern, loft-like living. #WilliamsburgTownhouse #HomeRenovation #LoftLikeHome #EnsembleArchitecture #InteriorDesign #BrooklynRealEstate #RusticIndustrial #CustomStaircase #ReclaimedWoodFloors

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign