BROOKLYN BROWNSTONE
BROOKLYN, NY

We met the clients, a young urban couple, when their search for a townhouse led them to a 19th-century Clinton Hill brownstone on a quiet tree-lined street.  The landmark-district house had nearly 12-foot tall ceilings on the parlor level and many of its original details intact, though under layers of paint from its years as an abused and neglected Single Room Occupancy (SRO).  Converting an SRO into a residence (a two-family in this case) can be a daunting procedure in New York City.  It was Robin’s seasoned experience with this process, having converted SRO’s throughout Harlem and upper Manhattan, which originally drew the clients towards Andrade Architecture.  

While restoring and respecting as many of the historic features as possible, Andrade Architecture transformed the brownstone into a modern home with clean aesthetic: a triplex family home on the upper floors and a separate income-generating apartment on the garden level.  The triplex floor plan, which had been severed into a maze of rooms over the years, was restored to much its original layout.  Open-cell spray insulation was added and the 1970’s aluminum windows were replaced with landmark-approved energy efficient wood windows.  Great care was taken to repair and preserve the brickwork on the rear façade, while a new steel deck and stair creates access to the outdoors and the newly landscaped backyard and patio.

The client’s shared Andrade Architecture’s desire to incorporate sustainable materials where ever possible.  Reclaimed dead-standing oak flooring was used throughout the parlor level, while antique hickory barn boards were skillfully milled for the kitchen island and the third floor bathroom vanity.   The master bath is a hammam-style retreat, with a salvaged antique stone sink, lime-plastered walls, and rustic cement-tiled floor.   By carefully editing combinations of new and old, Andrade Architecture created a comfortable home that reflected the client’s eclectic modern style.