The Insider: Impeccable Renovation Brightens, Updates Woodwork-Laden Park Slope Townhouse

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

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

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

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

This article details the comprehensive renovation and interior design of a 1901 limestone row house in Brooklyn's Park Slope, situated near Prospect Park. The project, described as more of a restoration than a renovation, was a collaboration between Brooklyn Heights-based CWB Architects and Portland, Oregon's Jessica Helgerson Interior Design (JHID). The homeowners sought a casual, eclectic, and kid-friendly aesthetic, deliberately avoiding a fancy or pretentious feel. CWB Architects focused on structural and functional updates while preserving the home's original character, including well-preserved inlay floors and exquisite woodwork. Key architectural changes involved installing all-new bathrooms and a new kitchen, which was relocated to what was formerly part of the butler’s pantry, necessitating the removal of a service stair to the cellar. A significant remodel transformed a top-floor area into a playroom for the family's three sons, and central sinks and closets on the second floor were removed to create a library, integrated into a new master suite. Jessica Helgerson Interior Design was responsible for the complete furnishing and decoration of the house. A notable design decision involved painting the dining room's wood-paneled walls white, a choice made after considerable deliberation to brighten the space, which was not naturally super-bright, and to balance the existing abundance of wood from floors, box beams, cabinets, and trim. Most rooms feature white walls, allowing color to be introduced primarily through the furnishings. Specific design elements and material choices are highlighted throughout the article. The ground floor was designated as a play space for the single-family occupants. The entry vestibule features custom floor tile designed to echo the ironwork on the original exterior doors. In the front parlor, a blue tufted sofa and many other upholstered pieces are custom designs by JHID, complemented by a pink wing chair by Frits Henningsen for Carl Hansen and a Bubble chandelier by Lindsey Adelman. The middle parlor includes two custom curved sofas by JHID, and its existing fireplace was updated with new tile work. The dining room received new cabinetry with leaded-glass doors, a table designed by JHID, spindle chairs by BassamFellows, and an ultra-modern chandelier by Lindsey Adelman. A wide hallway connects the dining room to the kitchen, lined with new cabinetry. The kitchen, located in an existing extension at the rear of the parlor floor, received added windows above the sink. It features stain-grade butternut cabinetry, white marble counters, and a Cluny range from Lacanche. Custom wall tiles in the kitchen were crafted by Tempest Tileworks from a pattern by artist Lindsay Cowles. The master bedroom opens onto a deck above the kitchen extension. A multi-purpose library area, accessed through new arched French doors, is furnished with a custom JHID table and four blue Saari chairs by Arper. The master and children’s bathrooms are similar in design, both featuring vanities by Drummonds and mosaic floor tile designed by JHID and produced by Pratt & Larson. The children's bath includes a tub instead of a shower. The top floor hallway showcases newly made leaded glass in the skylight and a built-in storage cabinet. An upstairs playroom, with an upholstered, skylit reading nook, was created from a former cluster of closets. #ParkSlope #LimestoneHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #Brooklyn #CWBArchitects #JessicaHelgersonInteriorDesign #CustomFurnishings #HistoricPreservation

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

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

This blog post details a significant renovation of a 1970s South County residence, focusing on how lighting fixtures from Metro Lighting, in collaboration with KH Interiors, transformed the home. The project was led by interior designer Krista Howard of KH Interiors and Heidi Sanders of Metro Lighting, aiming to create a practical yet elevated space for a busy family of five. The renovation extended beyond a simple kitchen update, evolving into a two-story expansion that now includes a spacious cooking and dining area, along with a covered outdoor porch. Each design element was meticulously chosen to accommodate the family's active lifestyle, encompassing sports schedules, entertaining needs, and daily functionality. The team involved architect William Cover, Lurk’s Custom Cabinets, and photographer Anne Mathias, with Metro Lighting playing a crucial role in curating the home's lighting. In the reimagined kitchen, two large orb pendants are prominently featured above dual islands, one dedicated to storage and the other to function. These orbs are complemented by onyx stone cylinder fixtures that not only echo the kitchen's stone details but also cast a soft, sculptural glow. Above the breakfast table, a sleek gold fixture introduces a contrasting element, its simplicity providing a calm balance to the kitchen's more dynamic design features, creating a cohesive and visually appealing central gathering space. The lighting design extends thoughtfully into other areas of the home, transforming even transitional spaces. A hallway adjacent to the kitchen, referred to as the “kitchen hall,” connects bedrooms to public areas. Here, lighting is strategically used to gently illuminate stone accents, turning a functional corridor into a refined and welcoming passage. This attention to detail ensures that lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose throughout the residence. The powder room and the adjacent lower-level pool changing area draw inspiration from the past, featuring brass vertical sconces reminiscent of 1940s design. These fixtures are paired with playful wallpaper to create an inviting retro-modern ambiance. The lighting in these areas is described as “quiet and classic,” designed to support the functionality of the space without becoming the dominant focal point, allowing other design elements to shine while providing adequate illumination. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the home incorporates smart lighting and automated window treatments, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency. These modern features allow the family to easily adjust their living environment, whether for hosting guests, relaxing in the evening, or quickly departing the house, all without compromising the home's timeless design integrity. Lurk’s Custom Cabinets further anchored the space with exceptional craftsmanship, coordinating finishes and cabinetry details with the overall lighting plan to ensure a harmonious visual flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Ultimately, this South County residence represents more than just a renovation; it is a testament to thoughtful design, sustained collaboration, and the transformative power of architectural lighting. The project effectively elevates not only the home’s structure and aesthetics but also significantly enhances the family’s daily living experience. Through the combined expertise of Metro Lighting and KH Interiors, a once-dated kitchen has been revitalized into a radiant and central hub for connection and comfort within the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #KitchenRemodel #SmartHome #ArchitecturalLighting #KHInteriors #MetroLighting

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

A couple residing in lower Manhattan acquired a circa 1892 Renaissance Revival brownstone and sandstone row house in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, measuring three stories high and just under 17 feet wide. While the house retained significant original details such as stained glass, wainscoting, an intact staircase, and carved Queen Anne style wood mantels, the new owners sought a brighter and more contemporary living space. They enlisted Gowanus-based architect Jeff Etelamaki to undertake a comprehensive renovation of the two upper floors, with a 'clean-up' of the garden level for an au pair or visiting family. The architect identified the primary challenges as the house's overall darkness and awkward proportions. The parlor level, for instance, suffered from a narrow entry hall, staircase, and galley kitchen that consumed a third of the house's width, leaving an exceptionally long and narrow living area (9 feet, 8 inches wide by 42 feet long). Etelamaki addressed this by opening up the hallway wall and dividing the lengthy space widthwise. An expanded kitchen was relocated to the rear of the parlor floor, and a dining area, featuring a round table to counteract the angularity of the space, was placed in the middle. This strategic repositioning was deemed the most practical solution for the layout. A significant stylistic decision involved replacing the existing ornate mantels and a large pier mirror. The homeowners opted for simpler white marble mantels, sourced from earlier-era Boston houses via New Hampshire, after the original pieces were sent to an architectural salvage warehouse in Harlem. This choice was partly facilitated by the necessity to replace the uneven and worn parquet flooring with new white oak planks from Madera Surfaces. Other improvements included removing a wall to open the stair hall and whitewashing existing dark brown woodwork to enhance brightness and modernize the interior. While much of the original detail, such as the front door, trim, wainscoting, and stair balusters, was preserved, the latter were highlighted with Farrow & Ball’s Manor House Grey. Additional design elements included abstract art by Brooklyn-based painter Alex Soffer positioned over the mantels in the parlor and kitchen areas. Two barrel-shaped chairs in the front parlor were chosen to complement the mantel's opening and prevent the narrow space from feeling overcrowded, while original stained glass panels above the parlor windows were retained. Custom kitchen cabinetry, along with a wall of glass-doored cabinets, was crafted by Tamas Matyek of Brooklyn-based Prowood. Lighting fixtures, including hanging lights over the black granite island, contemporary glass fixtures in the dining area and entry hall, and sconces throughout the house, were supplied by Allied Maker. A new powder room was integrated to the right of the kitchen, necessitating a slight bump-out into the kitchen space. Built-in white oak and mixed hardwood cabinets with integrated pulls were installed to optimize space in the kitchen, given its limited width for a dining table or banquette. On the upper floor, two smaller rooms were combined to create a single, full-width primary bedroom, with salvaged wainscoting used for repairs. The primary bedroom features furniture from Chicago’s Blu Dot. The central section of the top floor was reconfigured to include a walk-in closet and an entirely new skylit bathroom, which is partly clad in large-format porcelain tile. The existing door to a deck remained, with a potential future addition to that floor considered. #ProspectHeights #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSalvage #ModernUpdate #MarbleMantels #BrooklynRenovation #EtelamakiArchitecture #HomeRedesign

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

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

This article details a personal account of a home renovation project, challenging the common perception that renovations are inherently stressful or nightmarish experiences. The author, Alice Stolz, National Managing Editor of Domain and a property expert, recounts her first renovation experience, emphasizing that despite a relatively tight budget and challenging circumstances, she found the process enjoyable and transformative. The initial objective for the renovation was to create a liveable and functional home within the established budget. The planning phase involved extensive discussion and iteration between the author and her husband, a process that, while initially frustrating, ultimately led to compromise and adherence to financial constraints. This period of intense planning and decision-making is presented as a crucial part of the overall positive experience, fostering personal growth and discipline. The renovation proceeded under difficult conditions, including lockdown restrictions and the inherent challenges of updating an old, compromised house. Despite these obstacles, the author expresses a deep appreciation for the demolition and construction phases, finding satisfaction in the physical transformation of the space and the strategic decisions involved in allocating resources—prioritizing essential elements like the kitchen benchtop and quality joinery, and economizing elsewhere. The project became a mental escape during a restrictive period, providing a sense of progress and purpose. A significant aspect of the positive experience was the collaboration with skilled professionals, including an incredible builder and interior design studio. The author highlights her admiration for their ability to envision and create spaces, likening them to magicians. The dedication and craftsmanship of individual tradespeople, such as meticulous tilers, patient painters, and precise joiners, are specifically praised, contributing to the overall satisfaction with the project. Ultimately, the renovation resulted in a home that, while not perfectly flawless with its existing structural quirks, is cherished for its character and history. The article concludes by advocating for embracing these imperfections, contrasting them with a prevalent desire for absolute perfection. The renovation transformed not just the physical space but also the author's perspective, fostering an appreciation for the journey and the unique qualities that make a house a home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BudgetRenovation #PropertyDevelopment #HomeImprovement #PersonalExperience #BuildingProcess #DesignChallenges #SkilledTrades

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

Zen Architects, a Melbourne-based firm with 30 years of experience combining science and art in sustainably minded projects, undertook a comprehensive renovation of an early 1900s Victorian home in Brunswick. The property, untouched for five decades and slated for demolition due to asbestos, was purchased by clients who sought an architect willing to execute a challenging renovation emphasizing local materials, recycled timber, and space for an art studio. The clients desired a design that respected the original cottage's form and detailing, diverging from the prevalent trend of demolishing Victorians for new, often insensitive, developments in an area without historic controls. The project spanned nearly three years, including 18 months of design and documentation and 14 months of construction. The initial phase focused on preserving the original structure. This involved restoring the weatherboard exterior, original Baltic pine timber flooring, and Victorian details. The interior plaster was removed, walls were reinsulated, and windows reglazed. The eastern portion of the roofline was raised to accommodate higher ceilings. To maintain the property's heritage value, all new construction was set back behind the original chimney line. The design team reconfigured the front four rooms: two became bedrooms, one a bathroom, and the fourth a front living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace that utilized the existing chimney. From the light-filled foyer, residents can now access the kitchen, a double-height dining room, and a sunken conversation pit, all offering views of the garden. Throughout the renovation, Zen Architects prioritized local sourcing. Custom lighting was crafted from solid brass, and internal recycled timber details, such as shelving, were produced by local furniture makers. The bathrooms feature custom handmade tiles from a South Melbourne ceramicist, and all fixtures and fittings were also locally sourced. The kitchen incorporates a solid concrete island counter designed for passive heating and cooling; it warms naturally in the summer, and a concealed black heat panel beneath the slab absorbs and releases heat in the winter. An adjacent art studio benefits from ambient diffused south-facing light, providing an ideal space for various artistic pursuits. This project demonstrates a successful approach to sensitively transforming Victorian homes to meet contemporary living standards while adhering to principles of sustainability and local craftsmanship. #VictorianRenovation #SustainableDesign #ZenArchitects #MelbourneArchitecture #HistoricPreservation #RecycledMaterials #LocalCraftsmanship #HomeRetrofit #ArtStudio