Brownstone Renovation In Brooklyn | Bed-Stuy

A Transitional Gem

The result is a two-family brownstone that perfectly combines classic townhouse living with today’s modern needs, including SmartHome technology that we installed to control Bluetooth speakers, Nest thermostats, and the security system. 

The overall aesthetic goal of this brownstone renovation was to pay homage to the historical periods the building has lived through in a cohesive way that is the hallmark of modern transitional style in New York City brownstone interiors.

In the kitchen, white Shaker-style cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and marble rather than quartz countertops bring a classically upscale sensibility. To modernize the space further, we opened up the back wall to create floor-to-ceiling windows that are also doors, opening up into the newly built balcony.

Timely Touches

This brownstone renovation included many quintessential elements, such as millwork like the ceiling medallions. We restored some and custom built others, perfectly recreating their original appearance.

The heated master bathroom is now serene, with a walk-in shower featuring a subtly modern linear drain. A herringbone Carrera marble tiled floor and marble slab sink complete the scene.  In the powder room, we embraced a contemporary look by pairing dark hexagonal floors with light chevron tiles, accented with dramatic navy blue wallpaper. With its clear-cut 1920s-style, we selected the wall sconce to reference one of the brownstone’s earlier eras.

Design Details

Natural oak herringbone floors we installed throughout the entire home bring a modern yet warm touch. We restored the wood-burning marble fireplace, which is fully functioning. An elegant staircase with a custom-crafted black wooden banister and white balusters winds up and down alongside a real brick interior wall that we restored and refinished. 

In this brownstone renovation, we were also able to create ceiling height, an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing side benefit. When working on the joists and beams to level out the floors (a common issue in pre-war renovations) we added ceiling height in the main parlor floor by taking the second floor and raising the ceiling an entire foot. The end result is a main floor with stunning 9-foot ceilings.

Fun Fact: This Bed-Stuy home is a true brownstone, meaning it was constructed from actual brownstone, which we also completely redid for this project.

Some Highlights

• Solid natural oak herringbone floors throughout
• A fully restored, refinished, and functioning wood burning fireplace with a marble mantle
• Complete exterior renovation of the facade, cornices, windows, mouldings, and even the ironwork, including the railings leading up to the stoop and those facing the street
• A brand new central air and heating system with uniquely modern vents – look above the couch in the living room with the fuzzy rug and large painting

Considering a brownstone or townhouse renovation in NYC? View our full portfolio of brownstone and townhouse renovation before and afters, learn more about Gallery KBNY, or simply contact us today.

We are an award-winning design-build firm in New York City with a full-service approach to residential renovations in Manhattan and Brooklyn that includes everything from interior design and architectural services to facilitating building management and board approval, to construction and construction management. We’re experts in renovating pre-war homes, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, sourcing custom pieces, building entirely new rooms (or even balconies), millwork, and all that falls in between. Let us bring your dream home to life.