$5.5M Park Slope townhouse built in 1906 is drenched in historic details

This blog post details the exquisite Park Slope townhouse at 108 8th Avenue, currently on the market for $8.8 million. Built in 1900, this limestone-clad mansion is a notable property in its grand neighborhood, recognized for its scale and preserved historic details. The residence has also served as a filming location for period productions such as Martin Scorsese’s “The Age of Innocence” and HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire,” chosen for its authentic representation of a bygone era's gracious living. This marks the first time in decades the property has been offered for sale. The five-story, 8,000-square-foot home showcases French Renaissance and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. Upon entry, guests are greeted by a floor-to-ceiling glass and wrought-iron wall, leading to a central staircase with carved mahogany newel posts. Opposite the staircase, an ornate mirrored mantel frames a gas-burning fireplace, setting a luxurious tone. The ground floor further includes a sitting area that transitions into an oak drawing room, adorned with original wainscoting and Tiffany light fixtures. A two-level chef’s kitchen and a breakfast room are also situated on this floor, with access to an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining, complemented by a powder room and ample closet space. The parlor floor, accessible via a wide mahogany staircase beneath an original stained glass skylight, features a formal dining room complete with original wall tapestries, an elaborately carved mahogany buffet, and a mahogany and Spanish marble mantel with a gas-burning fireplace. An adjacent music room boasts a 15-foot-high ceiling from which an original crystal chandelier hangs. The chef’s kitchen is distinguished by two large stained glass windows, identified as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Coonley Playhouse Triptych ("Balloons & Confetti"), custom cabinetry, and a Juliet balcony. Moving to the upper levels, the next floor houses a library with built-in bookshelves and a traditional library ladder. A pass-through area provides extensive storage with built-in drawers, cedar closets, and a mirrored dressing area, connecting the master bedroom to the library. The master bedroom itself features a mahogany mantel and fireplace. The en suite marble bathroom is equipped with a steam shower, multiple nozzles, a bidet, and a deep soaking tub for two. The top floor contains an additional bedroom with an en suite blue-marble bath and a home office that includes built-in shelves, file drawers, and a large custom-made curved wood desk, overlooking an outdoor deck with city views. This floor also offers another full bath, a full-sized vented laundry room, and a walk-in cedar closet, with stairs leading to a roof deck providing panoramic city vistas. The garden level, accessible via a private entrance, includes a living suite suitable for guests or an au pair, featuring a full-sized bedroom, sitting area, a full bath, and a sauna. The remainder of this level is currently used as a game room but can be converted into another bedroom. The home benefits from an internal staircase connecting all floors and a mechanical dumbwaiter. A wine cellar is located in the basement. This single-family home encompasses five bedrooms, three outdoor decks, multi-zoned central air conditioning, and acoustic stereo sound systems throughout its beautifully proportioned interior spaces. The property is listed by Jeffrey Zoldan for Brown Harris Stevens. #ParkSlope #Townhouse #HistoricHome #LuxuryRealEstate #NewYorkCity #FilmLocation #BoardwalkEmpire #AgeOfInnocence #ArchitecturalHistory

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

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

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

This article details a Neo-Grec brownstone located at 213 St. Johns Place in the Park Slope Historic District of Brooklyn, currently listed for $3.25 million. Constructed between 1880 and 1881 by William Gubbins, who is credited as both architect and builder for this specific property, the house stands as part of a stretch of brownstones. The three-story residence features a full-height angled bay with incised ornament on the lintels and a bracketed cornice, reflecting its late 19th-century Neo-Grec architectural style. The single-family house has remained under the same ownership since the late 1960s, a factor that has contributed to the preservation of many of its original details. The interior layout largely maintains its 19th-century configuration, with the kitchen and dining room situated on the garden level, formal parlors on the floor above, and five bedrooms and two full bathrooms distributed across the upper two floors. The entry area of the house showcases an unusual patchwork wood floor, wainscoting, an integrated mirror, and an ornate newel post, setting a historical tone. The double parlor is designed as a bibliophile's space, featuring extensive bookshelves that frame an ornately carved wood mantel with a mirrored overmantel. This area includes a library ladder, original hearth tiles, and an inlaid border on the wood floor, highlighting the craftsmanship of the period. Pocket doors with their original ornate surrounds lead to a rear parlor, which contains built-ins within a niche and a wood "rug" with an inlaid border, further emphasizing the historical aesthetic. On the garden level, the dining room at the front of the house is equipped with a green-slate mantel, complete with its original insert, a ceiling medallion, and paisley wallpaper, maintaining a Victorian ambiance. Adjacent to the dining room is the kitchen, which presents a 1960s-era aesthetic, characterized by exposed brick, a wood-burning fireplace, minimalist white cabinets, and retro appliances. The property boasts a total of eight fireplaces, with at least one mantel appearing in a street-facing bedroom that also features a niche under a plaster arch and parquet flooring. One of the bathrooms shown includes a mix of design elements from various eras, such as bead board wainscoting, white fixtures, and wallpaper. The rear garden is described as lush, offering outdoor space. The property is listed by Alexandra Como Saghir and Tyson Lewis of Compass. This detailed examination of 213 St. Johns Place highlights its historical significance, preserved architectural features, and the blend of original and period-specific updates, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers or those interested in historic Park Slope residences. #ParkSlope #Brownstone #NeoGrecArchitecture #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #Woodwork #Mantels #BuiltIns

This article highlights the meticulous preservation and modern enhancements of a four-story brownstone located at 228 Garfield Place within the Park Slope Historic District. The residence, initially listed at $4.495 million, is now on the market for $3.995 million after a series of price reductions. It showcases a blend of historical architectural details and contemporary luxury amenities, making it a distinctive property. The brownstone boasts numerous original features that have been impeccably maintained over time. These include six functioning fireplaces, intricate pocket doors, elegant inlaid wood floors, classic wood shutters, and ornate stained-glass transoms. These elements collectively contribute to the home's historic charm and character, reflecting its past while offering a glimpse into its original design. In addition to its historical integrity, the property has been thoughtfully updated by its long-term owners to incorporate modern comforts. A notable addition is a steam room integrated into the master suite, providing a decadent, spa-like experience. This juxtaposition of old and new underscores a commitment to both preserving heritage and embracing contemporary living standards. The interior layout is designed for both grandeur and comfort. The parlor floor foyer immediately captures attention with its monumental staircase, detailed wainscoting, delicate fretwork, and a built-in bench complemented by a pier mirror. Adjacent to the foyer, a long living room features a full wall of cherry wood bookcases, a more recent but complementary addition. The rear parlor houses one of the home's six fireplaces, distinguished by an elaborate original mantelpiece. The garden level offers a more casual living space, comprising a cozy front parlor that seamlessly connects to the dining room and kitchen. The kitchen, while featuring a predominantly black color scheme, retains historical elements such as an original built-in oak ice box and a pie safe. A full bathroom is conveniently located next to the kitchen, and French doors provide access to a south-facing garden, offering a private outdoor retreat. Ascending to the second level reveals a lavish, full-floor master suite. This expansive suite includes a master bathroom and dressing area that occupies over half of the floor, culminating in the aforementioned steam room. The upper floors accommodate five additional bedrooms, most of which are enhanced by a fireplace and large bay windows, alongside two more full bathrooms. A small kitchenette on the third floor adds further convenience. The historical significance of 228 Garfield Place is further detailed by its designation report. The report indicates that the house is part of a row built by owner/builders Martin & Lee, with architect Charles Werner. These structures were designed to introduce variety within the traditional city row, evident in their combination of materials and subtle variations in the column capitals flanking the doorways. The property is listed by Judith Lief of The Corcoran Group and can also be found on CityRealty. #ParkSlope #HistoricBrownstone #LuxuryRealEstate #BrooklynHomes #ArchitecturalDetails #RealEstateListing #NewYorkCity #HomeDesign

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

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign

This blog post details a four-family brownstone located at 34 7th Avenue in Park Slope, built in 1873. Despite its division into multiple units, the property retains a wealth of original architectural details that contribute to its period charm. These include various mantels, intricate moldings, decorative ceiling medallions, and tin ceilings. Notably, two bathrooms feature late Victorian tile, adding to the historical character. The brownstone is situated within the Park Slope Historic District and is recognized as one of the earliest examples of the Neo-Grec architectural style in the area. The building is part of what was originally a row of five brownstones, with one corner building having been demolished after the 1960 Park Slope plane crash. While No. 34 has undergone some exterior changes, such as the replacement of its original window enframements and pedimented door surround with a white limestone finish after the plane crash, it still boasts its original bracketed cornice, preserving a significant historical element. The interior layout consists of a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment on each of the four floors, complemented by a finished cellar that includes a tile floor, laundry facilities, and a half bath. The garden level features a central windowless den and a large kitchen at the rear, distinguished by a terra-cotta tile floor. The parlor level showcases the most impressive original details, including a heavily carved wood mantel with a mirror in the front parlor. A modest kitchen has been incorporated into the middle section of this floor. Pocket doors lead to the rear room, which currently serves as a dining room in the listing photos and features another mantel adorned with colorful period tiles. Upstairs, the units also boast marble mantels, and the top-floor apartment includes a small office space. The full bathrooms throughout the property are equipped with claw-foot tubs and exhibit the aforementioned late Victorian tilework. Externally, the property features a lushly planted, deep rear garden, accessible exclusively from the garden-level kitchen. This outdoor space is designed with a concrete patio and winding pathways that navigate through beds filled with trees, shrubs, and perennials, offering a serene green retreat. The brownstone has been under the same ownership since the 1970s. The listing does not specify recent upgrades to the mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems, but the interior photographs suggest that the property has been well-maintained. The brownstone is listed by Paul Murphy, Carol Wang, and Rebecca Navarro of Compass, with an asking price of $3.47 million. #ParkSlope #Brownstone #NeoGrecArchitecture #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #FourFamilyDwelling #PeriodDetails #VictorianTile #ArchitecturalPreservation

This blog post highlights a third-floor co-op located at 291 Garfield Place in the Park Slope Historic District, which is currently on the market for $1.145 million. The unit is situated within a neo-Classical townhouse built in 1899 by William Flanagan. The building is part of a series of five townhouses featuring alternating brownstone and limestone facades, showcasing an eclectic mix of architectural details. The co-op unit boasts distinctive architectural features that contribute to its appeal. These include plaster garlands in the parlor, original interior wood shutters, restored window trim, and French doors in the bedroom. A notable element is a stained glass window found in the bathroom, adding a unique aesthetic touch. The interior design incorporates dark stained woodwork and oak parquet floors throughout, providing a classic and sophisticated feel. Functionally, the apartment is well-equipped with dedicated spaces. An office nook, featuring built-in bookshelves, is strategically placed within the front living room alcove, making efficient use of the space. Additionally, a well-appointed library serves a dual purpose, acting as both a reading area and a passage connecting the bedroom to the kitchen and subsequently to the bathroom. This thoughtful layout enhances the flow and utility of the apartment. The kitchen is designed with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. It features white cabinetry and modern appliances, including a steel dishwasher, which offer a contrast to the darker wood finishes found in other parts of the apartment. While currently advertised as a large two-bedroom, the listing notes that it is essentially a one-bedroom unit, with a suggestion that the living room could be divided to create an additional bedroom, a conversion seen in other units within the building. Exterior details of the building at 291 Garfield Place are also emphasized. The entrance is marked by a grand arched portico adorned with fluted Corinthian columns. The facade further exhibits a row of egg and dart molding topping the first-story lintels, followed by foliate friezes, more Corinthian columns around the window bays, and a cornice embellished with square brackets and acanthus leaves. These details reflect the neo-Classical style and the craftsmanship of the period. The property has a monthly maintenance fee of $1,080. An open house was scheduled for Sunday, January 6, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The listing agent is Eve Scott of Corcoran. The historical context of the building is briefly mentioned, noting that an owner in 1902 appeared eager to sell the property, possibly indicating a speculative purchase from that era. The article does not speculate on whether the asking price of $1.145 million is likely to be met but provides essential information for potential buyers. #ParkSlope #CoopApartment #HistoricDistrict #RealEstate #BrooklynHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #LimestoneFacade

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

This blog post highlights a four-story, single-family Neo-Grec brownstone located at 217 Berkeley Place in the Park Slope Historic District of Brooklyn, New York. The property, built around 1883 by J. Doughtery & Son, showcases a blend of historical grandeur and modern amenities. The exterior of the brownstone features angled bays, dramatic cornices, and delicate ironwork, characteristic of Neo-Grec architecture. Its prime location is just blocks away from Grand Army Plaza and Prospect Park. The interior of the brownstone is distinguished by a wealth of original details that evoke its Gilded Age origins. These include meticulously carved wood, elaborate marble mantels, vibrant Minton tiles, intricate stained glass, and bordered parquet floors. The woodwork throughout the house is enhanced with elegant burl inlays, adding to its historical richness. These period elements are thoughtfully integrated with high-end modern updates, creating a harmonious living space. The front parlor retains several original features, most notably the imposing pocket doors adorned with burl inlays. The rear parlor, originally designed as the dining room, is a prominent highlight of the home. It boasts a wood-burning fireplace with a columned overmantel and a mirror, contributing to its opulent atmosphere. A bay overlooking the rear garden is extensively decorated with stained glass, including a curved ceiling that was historically referred to as a "dome light" in a 1900 sales advertisement. This area also includes a built-in window seat, and the sides of the bay are embellished with tapestries, described in the listing as reproductions of French Rococo works housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Historical records reveal that the house was "newly decorated by Halbert" in 1900, referring to George Halbert, a notable "remodeler of interiors." Halbert specialized in supplying stained glass, upholstery, and architectural woodwork, and was also known for manufacturing his own wallpaper and plaster ornamentation, which contributed to the home's lavish original design. The layout of the house includes a former butler’s pantry, now converted into a study, situated off the dining room in a rear extension. While a dumbwaiter once transported food from the garden-level kitchen, the floor plan suggests this space may now serve as a closet. The kitchen, located directly below the dining room, has been thoroughly modernized. It features a wall of glass, radiant heated tiled floors, white Shaker-style cabinets, and high-end appliances such as a Wolf range and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. The upper two floors accommodate the bedrooms. The master bedroom is separated from its en suite bathroom by a wall of glass, with a Claudio Silvestrin bathtub serving as a focal point. This floor also includes two additional bedrooms, another bathroom, and a laundry room discreetly placed within a closet. The top floor offers an artist’s studio, complete with a skylight and access to a private terrace. The backyard, accessible from the kitchen and an adjacent sunroom, is designed with a stone patio and planting beds, enclosed by a horizontal fence. The property was last purchased in 2003 for $1.7 million. Following a significant renovation, it is now listed for sale at $5.25 million, represented by Debra Kameros of Compass. The article invites readers to consider the value and appeal of this extensively restored and modernized historic home. #ParkSlope #NeoGrecArchitecture #Brownstone #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #InteriorDesign #StainedGlass #GildedAge #HomeRenovation

This article details the sensitive renovation and traditional furnishing of a 16th-century farmhouse, built around 1520, making it approximately 500 years old. The owners, inspired by period dramas and history books, transformed the former dairy farm back to its Tudor origins. The renovation process involved preserving historic features while creating a rustic and cozy living space in South Wales. The tour begins in the impressive double-height dining room, which showcases the ancient roof structure and a galleried mezzanine. The design emphasizes Tudor-inspired aesthetics, incorporating tapestry-style fabrics, richly colored rugs, and dark wood furniture. The walls throughout the house are limewashed, a natural finish that allows the ancient stones to breathe and provides a textured backdrop to the original beams and dark wood pieces like farmhouse chairs and an old dresser. The kitchen, located at the back of the house, exudes cottage charm with its simple green and white wall tiles, pine cabinets, and curtains that conceal under-counter appliances. Personal touches include a collection of copper kettles and pans inherited from an owner's grandmother, displayed on a rustic wooden shelf. In the living room, traditional elements like velvet sofas, tapestry-stitched cushions, and Welsh blanket designs are used to create a cozy atmosphere. Dark wood coffee and side tables contribute to the historic feel, especially when the wood-burner is lit. A notable feature of the living room is the inglenook fireplace, which still retains its original bread oven and centuries-old 'witch marks' carved into the beam, believed to protect the property from evil. These marks, along with whimsical faces and characters crafted from lime plaster, are hidden throughout the house, adding to its unique charm. Steep stairs behind an old oak door in the living room lead to the upper level, where a mezzanine serves as a guest bedroom, furnished with antique pieces like an old bed adorned with a Welsh blanket. The main bedroom also continues the Tudor theme, featuring a baronial-style bed sourced from an online auction and dressed with William Morris' Strawberry Thief bedlinen, complemented by antique sideboards and mirrors. The hallway offers an immediate sense of history with its original doors and uneven flagstone floors, contributing to the house’s character. Accessories such as antique rugs and William Morris velvet curtains enhance the medieval aesthetic. Outside, the steeply sloped terraced garden at the back of the house, overlooking the valleys of South Wales, was completely redesigned and replanted by the owners. The farmhouse's two-feet-thick walls are limewashed both inside and out, a process that is reapplied annually to maintain their freshness and allow the stone to breathe. The owners are committed to preserving this historic property, ensuring its beauty and integrity for future generations. #FarmhouseDecor #HistoricHomes #TudorRevival #TraditionalInteriors #CountryLiving #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalPreservation #SouthWales

A turn-of-the-century limestone rowhouse located at 456 74th Street in Bay Ridge, currently listed for $1.575 million, showcases a meticulous restoration of its original architectural elements. The residence features ten-foot ceilings, oak parquet floors with intricate inlaid borders, and functional pocket doors. Fluted oak columns add to the traditional aesthetic, complementing the period details found throughout the home. Beyond its historical charm, the property has been updated with modern amenities, including a contemporary kitchen and bathroom. The lower level is fully finished, providing a versatile family room, and the outdoor spaces are designed for leisure and entertainment, offering ample room for recreation. The parlor floor of the rowhouse is designed for formal gatherings, with a sunlit dining room distinguished by a coffered ceiling and built-in cabinetry that frames double pocket doors. Adjoining the dining area, the kitchen is well-appointed and provides direct access to an outdoor deck. This deck leads to a private, landscaped rear garden, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The living room on this floor is illuminated by three six-foot-high original oak casement windows, enhancing the bright and airy atmosphere. Decorative elements in the living space include a plaster ceiling medallion, additional oak fluted columns, and an oak-paneled room divider, which further highlight the craftsmanship of the period. A parlor room is graced by a decorative marble fireplace, adding a touch of elegance and warmth. Natural light is also drawn into the home's wide hallway and stairs through original stained glass skylights, illuminating the interior with a soft, colorful glow. The second floor of the residence accommodates four bedrooms of various sizes, catering to diverse needs. This level also includes a built-in oak armoire, offering practical storage solutions while maintaining the home's classic style. A spacious, renovated full bathroom, adorned with marble details, provides a luxurious and functional space. The lower level of the home has been completely renovated to include a cozy family room, a second full bathroom, and a laundry room. This finished basement offers flexibility for use as a guest suite, an entertainment area, or additional living space, making the home adaptable to different lifestyles. The property is listed by Mary-Jean Gianquito for Halstead, offering a unique blend of historic character and contemporary comfort in the desirable Bay Ridge neighborhood. #BayRidge #LimestoneRowhouse #HistoricHome #OriginalDetails #BrooklynRealEstate #TownhouseLiving #NewYorkCityHomes #ArchitectureDesign

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