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Before & After: Colonnade Row Revival

Design • Sustainability

One of the few remaining colonnade homes in Brooklyn Heights was in disrepair when its new owners approached us to modify the historic home. The desirable location on a single block Brooklyn Heights Place and its historic significance as a member of Colonnade Row made the 1840's Greek Revival home worth saving. However, the small footprint of the two-story home needed alteration to adapt to 21st century lifestyles and the owners' growing family.

Front facade of a colonnade Passive House in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District.
Front façade of a colonnade rowhouse before our renovation Before
Working with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, the existing front dormers were given a major facelift. This created space for two bedrooms at the front of the attic.
Rear facade of Brooklyn Heights Passive House at twilight, looking into the dining room and playroom through large glass doors.
Coated brick rear façade of a colonnade rowhouse before our renovation. Before
Raising the rear cornice to match the neighbors' also allowed for a guest bedroom with en suite bathroom at the rear of the house.
Parlor-level kitchen with wood floors, stone island and modern, tan cabinetry in a Brooklyn Heights Passive House
Stair hallway in what would become the kitchen in a Brooklyn Heights colonnade rowhouse Before
The parlor level, designed around the kitchen, was meant to be the main living floor.

In order to accommodate a kitchen, dining space, and living space, we designed a small rear addition.

Play room with blue carpet, tan couch, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors leading out to back yard.
Unfinished basement of a Brooklyn Heights colonnade rowhouse before our renovation. Before
Our biggest challenge was converting the cellar into a large family room that didn't feel underground.

To achieve this, we dug out the yard and created an areaway, allowing light to enter the space through wide, full-height glazed doors. With direct access to the rear yard and plenty of natural light, the lower level is a pleasant, informal living space.

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