A common challenge of remodeling New York City brownstones is utilizing narrow rear additions that are common in such homes. The primary goal of this Prospect Heights brownstone renovation was to connect the existing, narrow rear addition to the rest of the parlor and to the uniquely large rear yard. This common extension configuration not only restricts light into the rear parlor, but very often creates rooms that are difficult to use.
The Solar Innovations folding glass wall was instrumental in reaching our two goals. The door system also uses only a fraction of the wall thickness, which allowed us to increase the interior width of the extension to use as the dining area. The two sets of folding doors open fully to create an outdoor living area between the dining room and kitchen. We also included a glass rail at the deck to remove any visual obstruction from the kitchen to the yard.
We opted for a more modern feel in the kitchen and dining room, relocating some of the trim and paneling to areas that needed restoration throughout the rest of the house. BIA Interiors included a narrow shaker panel, accented with brass hardware, a dark island, and Carrara white marble to create a modern update to a classic theme. The stairs were also salvaged, reinforced from below, and refinished, with a dark stained newel post and handrail that call on the house’s past life.
