A young family purchased this 1800’s townhouse with a singular vision to renovate the once grand residence into a modern home. Years of modifications as a single room occupancy (SRO) resulted in a maze of rooms with small glimpses of the original plaster moulding and intricate wood paneling. The family did not identify the project as a historic restoration. Instead, anything that could be salvaged was cataloged and protected for repurposing. A careful restoration of the brownstone on the street façade satisfied New York’s Landmark’s Preservation Committee, while the rear of the building received large, new windows set in repurposed brick.

Inside, old blends seamlessly with new on five floors of finished living space. A large kitchen and breakfast room on the garden level connect directly to the private rear yard. On the parlor floor, the dining room resides at the front of the townhouse, and a butler’s pantry in a striking blue lacquer finish resides at the back of the home. A formal living room and library complete the entertaining space. Throughout, original mahogany columns and wainscot compliment new plaster coves and new custom wood flooring. One level up, a rooftop addition floods the landing with natural light. The primary suite shifted to the rear of the townhouse allowing for a window to be set in the double-sided marble shower.

Interior Design: Bella Mancini Design

Photography: © Brittany Ambridge/OTTO

Stylist: Frances Bailey

Editorial: National Cover Story Luxe Magazine