A seemingly ordinary brownstone in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood has been transformed into a stunning Parisian-style residence, blending contemporary charm with old-world elegance.

Short Summary:

• Architectural firm Leroy Street Studio redefined the five-story townhouse.
• The interior showcases an eclectic art collection with dynamic open spaces.
• Features include a high-end chef’s kitchen, a bespoke Takashi Murakami artwork, and a stunning sculptural staircase.

From the outside, the reimagined five-story townhouse at 535 1st Street in Brooklyn’s fashionable Park Slope neighborhood appears much like its neighbors, showcasing a classic British Regency style. However, once you step inside, you’re welcomed into an entirely different world—one that blends Parisian charm with contemporary elegance. This remarkable transformation was undertaken by New York-based architecture firm Leroy Street Studio, culminating in an exquisite, art-filled haven currently listed on the market for $18 million.

Originally constructed in 1910 by architect Fred W. Eisenla, this townhouse, known for its distinctive limestone facade and bowed front, retained its architecturally robust structure. Nonetheless, the new owners, driven by a vision to create a space that would both highlight and harmonize with their spirited art collection, brought on Leroy Street Studio to undertake an extensive, no-expense-spared renovation. Their goals were to amplify wall space for large art displays and create dynamic, open living spaces, which offer a refreshing break from the often cramped city life.

“We aimed to create a balance between colorful, lively interiors and a tranquil, livable space,” stated a representative from Leroy Street Studio. “This redesign breathes new life into the classic structure while maintaining a connection to its historical roots.”

As you enter the townhouse, past the wrought-iron gate and street-level stoop, you’re greeted by an impressive foyer accentuated by a sculptural staircase. This staircase not only serves as a functional element but also as a centerpiece of the design, seamlessly blending form and function. A custom arched walkway frames a striking Takashi Murakami artwork, set against a vibrant pink wall, providing an immediate visual delight.

The modern chef’s kitchen is a masterpiece in itself, replete with custom-milled oak cabinetry, an 18-foot center island crafted from Imperial Danby marble, and state-of-the-art appliances including a 60-inch Wolf dual-fuel range and a 100-bottle wine refrigerator. Every detail has been thoroughly considered—right down to a dedicated faucet dispensing filtered flat or sparkling water on demand. The kitchen’s blue quartzite backsplash adds a splash of color, reinforcing the home’s vibrant aesthetic.

However, the innovation doesn’t stop there. Leroy Street Studio carefully curated furnishings that perfectly complement the artwork, creating an immersive environment that offers inspiration for future homeowners. Notable design elements include large-format art pieces that animate the dining area, accented by a custom banquet, and a sunken media lounge with two walls of floor-to-ceiling glass, custom oak shelves, and a cozy fireplace. This area directly connects to the back garden, further blending indoor and outdoor living spaces.

“The approach was to leverage every square inch of the property, creating versatile, visually captivating spaces,” explained a representative from the architecture firm. “The interplay between vibrant art and functional design sets a unique tone for the entire home.”

As you ascend the stunning white winding staircase, lined with a pink runner designed by textile artist Christine Van Der Hurd, each floor unveils more surprises. The second floor features a high-ceilinged living room and a library framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, complete with plant boxes, adding a touch of nature to the indoor space. The spiral staircase is illuminated by a skylight on the top floor, ensuring that natural light filters down through the home, creating a bright and airy ambiance.

The third floor houses the primary suite, which includes a light-filled bedroom adorned with a colorful textile headboard. A private terrace overlooks the serene back garden, and the ensuite bathroom features a bespoke mosaic by artist Summer Wheat, exclusively designed for this space. Additional bedrooms are located on the fourth floor, while the rooftop penthouse level serves as a versatile office space, flanked by north- and south-facing terraces.

This elegant home balances historic architecture with modern luxury, making it a distinctive offering in Brooklyn’s real estate market. Prospective buyers are sure to appreciate its blend of timeless charm and contemporary flair.

Architects Christopher Lee and Minyoung Song of New York-based Model Practice offer a slightly different take on brownstone renovations. They recently worked on a circa 1890 townhouse in Park Slope, where their initial observation was an incomplete Victorian-era ceramic speaking tube—a reflection of the home’s storied past and a hint of its potential. Their clients, a couple in their 40s, moved into the property earlier than expected due to a series of events, including the birth of their first child and the onset of the pandemic. This unplanned early move allowed them to live in the space and understand its character, which in turn informed the renovation design.

“It was actually great because it taught us a lot of things we needed to know, and we got to experience the character and spirit of the house as it was, and that informed the design process,” one half of the couple, who is a graphic designer, mentioned.

The renovation sought to respect the historical integrity of the brownstone while introducing modern features. The home was organized thoughtfully, with each floor designated for different generations. The garden level was transformed into a senior-friendly guest suite for the couple’s parents, enhancing accessibility and comfort. The second floor was crafted as a sanctuary for the couple, while the upper floors catered to the children’s needs, complete with bedrooms, a playroom, and a reading nook. The parlor floor brought together the kitchen, living, and dining areas, creating a space for family gatherings.

“We endeavored to maintain the bones of the historic structure while introducing modern elements that juxtaposed the old and the new,” stated Christopher Lee. “Every layer of design was carefully considered to reflect both the past and the present.”

The couple’s appreciation for craftsmanship played a pivotal role in the design. Inspired by Japanese sashiko and Sardinian weaving, the designers infused these elements into the home’s aesthetics. This combination resulted in a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary styles. The parlor level, which started off with earthy, muted tones, gradually introduced bolder colors and patterns as you ascended each floor, culminating in vibrant, dynamic spaces at the top levels.

Penny Brown and Derek Seymour, known as The Brownstone Boys, also bring their unique expertise to Brooklyn’s brownstone landscape. They guided clients Ziv Kalmanovich and Hagar Levy in transforming a historic three-story home in Carroll Gardens. The house, although petite at 16 feet wide, brimmed with character and presented an exciting design challenge. Kalmanovich and Levy, inspired by their travels and a penchant for 19th-century Parisian interiors, worked closely with Brown and Seymour to achieve a Parisian Haussmann feel, blending light spaces with both old and new features.

“We looked to achieve a Parisian Haussmann feel, with light spaces that blend old and new,” shared Hagar Levy, reflecting on their design vision.

The previous owner had lived in the house for decades, leaving it in a state that reflected various eras. One of the challenges was undoing damage from prior renovations to restore the house’s original charm. The parlor and garden floors, however, retained much of their 1899 design, boasting original banisters and marble fireplaces which were carefully preserved and enhanced.

One standout space is the den on the garden floor, where Farrow & Ball’s Grove Green color drenches the walls, ceiling, and trim, creating a cozy, sophisticated retreat. The design combines bold color choices with curated furnishings to create spaces that are not just visually appealing but also inviting and functional.

The revamped townhouse at 535 1st Street is currently listed with David Feldman of Brown Harris Stevens. This extraordinary home offers a unique blend of period charm and modern luxury, making it a quintessential part of Brooklyn’s architectural tapestry.

For those interested in seeing more of this stunning home, click here to view photos of 535 1st Street.

As an expert in architecture and founder of Opulent 3D Studio, I, Ken Opulent, delight in sharing stories of such remarkable transformations. It’s the ability to mix historical elements with contemporary design that truly makes a house a home, and these Brooklyn brownstones serve as a testament to the seamless blend of past and present.

Photography by Nick Glimenakis and designs by various notable names including The Brownstone Boys, this renovated townhouse is a spectacular example of what can be achieved when architectural brilliance meets inspired client vision.

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