Welcome back to our coverage of the Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse. After a two-year break, the popular event is back and ready to open its doors to design lovers, offering a rare look inside a classic Brooklyn brownstone in the beloved neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights. The location is just steps away from the iconic promenade which boasts world famous views of the Manhattan skyline. Co-Chairs Ellen Hamilton and Erika Belsey Worth worked tirelessly to put together an unmissable event, presenting the work of over a dozen talented designers, each of whom transformed a portion of the home. Each designer has beautifully showcased their unique perspective to blend old with new for a fresh take on what makes this historic Brooklyn neighborhood special.
A view of the Brownstone including the work of Brooklyn Heights Gardens, Inc.
Visitors will have a chance to enjoy the work of the designers in this classic Greek Revival townhouse while the event raises funds to benefit the Brooklyn Heights Association (BHA). This hard-working association is known for pioneering “the idea of a historic district and continues to provide leadership in balancing historic preservation with 21st century ideals.” Founded in 1910, the association was “instrumental in the creation of New York City’s first historic district, the construction of the iconic Brooklyn Heights Promenade, and the preservation of the nearby waterfront for what is now Brooklyn Bridge Park.”
For readers just joining us, part one of our coverage of the event can be found here.
Design by KD Reid | Photo by Tim Cree
The garden floor sitting room is a study in elegant neutrals. Textures and pattern play create nuanced layers in this classic yet modern space designed by KD Reid.
Design by Laurie Blumenfeld Design | Photo by Kirsten Francis
Designed with the perspective that small spaces are to be celebrated and designed with as much care as larger areas, this vestibule, designer by Laurie Blumenfeld, which typically would be a pass-through area, is certainly worthy of attention. Usually an overlooked area, the area has been transformed “into a colorful, moody and expressive space” showcasing most notably “an ethereal wall mural by a Brooklyn-based studio paired with an expansive, sculptural light fixture.”
Design by Meagan Camp Interiors | Photo by Kirsten Francis
The sun drenched solarium, designed by Meagan Camp Interiors, is located on the top floor of the brownstone and feels a bit like a treehouse with its oversized windows and verdant view. Influenced by one of the original uses for solariums, the cultivation of fruit, the designer presents a garden inspired space. Through the use of an eclectic mix of indoor and outdoor furnishings, a whimsical English garden like patten and a lush green and white color palette, the room feels as fresh as it does classic.
Design by MeLinda K Design | Photo by Tim Cree
Natural tonal layers, limewashed walls, and subtly textural finishes come together to create a laundry room meant not just to be admired for its form and its function, but according to MeLinda K Design, as an “architectural reflection in time.”
Design by Nigel Rollings Landscape | Photo by Tim Cree
The absolutely stunning roof garden, designed by Nigel Rollings, is quite literally a breath of fresh air. Created as a sanctuary, and in the words of the designer “a place to renew the spirit, reflect on what matters, be close to nature, observe the seasons and the effects of the dramatically changing climate, grow some food and chill out!,” the roof and surrounding grounds certainly fit that bill.
Design by Rupp Studio | Photo by William Jess Laird
In the lounge, entitled: “A Room of One’s Own” by Rupp Studio, we find a space perfect for restful contemplation. Rich tones from the wood paneled walls to the atmospheric artwork give the lounge a brooding and romantic appeal.
Design by Studio Dorion | Photo by Ethan Herrington
In the guest bedrooom, designed by Studio Dorion, classic principles of Greek Revival style (symmetry, simplicity, and elegance) mesh beautifully with the designer’s modern touch. The “chino” color palette is a soothing backdrop to the rich wood of the Danish modern secretary by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen and other Scandinavian modern accessories in the small but delightful space.
Design by Tara McCauley | Photo by Hanna Grankvist
In the primary bedroom, designed by Tara McCauley, we are treated to a swoon worthy space dripping in drama with hints of Surrealism throughout. The designer explains, “I wanted to design a space which would both reflect and augment the fantastical experiences one might encounter in one’s dream life. I first looked to the Surrealist art movement for inspiration, incorporating such elements as trompe l’oeil, plays on the human form, and absurdist juxtapositions into my design. ”
The Shops at 372 and 373 by The Primary Essentials and Assembly Line | Photo by Jonathan Hokklo
Once our tour of the showhouse was complete, we were sure to stop by the shops at 372 and 373, a collaboration between The Primary Essentials and Assembly Line, two neighboring stores on Atlantic Avenue’s stretch between Hoyt and Bond in Boerum Hill. Both beautifully curated, the Primary Essentials provides an edited mix of objects for the home with a focus on table top, ceramics, glassware, and textiles while Assembly Line is a new shop by interior design studio General Assembly and features home renovation materials with a focus on emerging designers and brands.
The showhouse will be open to the public from Friday, September 23rd through Sunday, October 30th. For more information, please visit the Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse website here.
Images Courtesy of The Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse / Text by Liana Hayles Newton