Held by one family over two generations, South Brooklyn Townhouse is a historic townhouse renovation and expansion built for family gatherings, a more fluid indoor-outdoor lifestyle, and a standalone unit for an independent tenant. Rather than adding onto the existing building in a conventional manner, the old building was gut renovated with a new structure built directly behind, maximizing square footage and volume while preserving the scale and character of the original building. Conceptually, the old structure was modified to feel like an archetypal city townhouse through a reworking of the front facade; the new structure was imagined as its own archetype, characterized by seemingly simple but generous openings, considered brickwork, and various rear yard elements.

Where the old building accommodates private uses such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and studies, the new building accommodates private socializing and connections to outdoor spaces with a modern ease. The two buildings are linked by a volume of space that neither structure has: a triple height stair that is imagined as an architectural sculpture. Finishes are straightforward and practical, meant to accommodate changing family life and to imbue all spaces with an emphasis upon reflecting natural light. Walls are white washed, floors are in terracotta, wood, and stone. Large windows and skylights bring in light from all directions, animating the house through the day.

Photos by Naho Kubota