Boerum Hill Townhouse

Brooklyn, New York
2022

Existing conditions were an S.R.O. (Single Room Occupancy) which had fallen into disrepair. Collapsing plaster moldings and large wood casings offered a glimpse of what used to be of this 25-foot-wide property. A gut renovation and expansion of this landmarked townhouse serve the dual goal of restoring the building while accommodating new programmatic elements. Large windowed openings create light and a connection to the garden in a full-width rear addition. An oak kitchen is accompanied by a breakfast nook and connects to a green plaster-clad family room below via oak interior stairs, while an exterior deck and stair lead to the rear garden. The bedroom and bathroom spaces are located on the upper floors and are proportionally appropriate to the original house. At the apex of three flights of a new winding staircase, a skylight marks the entry to a roof terrace and garden. Material choices throughout include European white oak for cabinetry and flooring, Italian white marble for bathrooms, and waxed plaster for walls. Patinated custom brass door hardware and plumbing fittings accentuate the classic details within the interiors.

Center cut European white oak is the predominant wood used throughout the project. Inspired by mid-century furniture pieces, a wood vanity was created; a subtle curving face frame cabinet surrounds flat panel drawers and sits on custom made brass legs.