We specialise in the complete renovation of historic brownstones, building contemporary classics for clients at the upper end of the market. We offer two services:

End-to-end
Purchase & Gut Renovate.

We both source and build a home to your specification.

  • We source a suitable location and candidate building based on client needs and preferences.
  • Client works with our architectural consultants to select interior and exterior layout from a range of options.
  • The construction process begins.
  • Client receives a dedicated project manager for their build, with scheduled site visits, and regular updates via email and photographic reports.
  • Client, if desired, visits site and suppliers as project evolves to observe the components of their home being crafted. This includes stone yard, tiles, steel frame windows, stairs and entrance doors, tree nursery, as well as solar.
  • Upon completion of project, client attends closing to complete purchase.

 

Requirements

  • Subject to contract and financing
  • 25% deposit required, 10% non-refundable
  • Duration: 12 to 18 months (subject to specification)
  • $10,000 per month project management fee for first 12 months
  • Minimum project size is $3M, including building purchase

Gut Renovate.

We renovate your home to specification.

    • Client works with our architectural consultants to select interior and exterior layout from a range of options (please note that we only work on full building renovations).
    • Client vacates the property, if occupied, and the construction process begins.
    • Client receives a dedicated project manager for their build, with scheduled site visits, and regular updates via email and photographic reports.
    • Client, if desired, visits site and suppliers as project evolves to observe the components of their home being crafted. This includes stone yard, tiles, steel frame windows, stairs and entrance doors, as well as solar.
    • Upon completion of project, remaining 50% of project fee is paid.

     

    Requirements

    • Subject to contract and financing
    • 50% deposit required, 10% non-refundable in case of cancellation
    • Duration: 12 to 18 months (subject to specification)
    • $10,000 per month project management fee for first 12 months
    • Minimum project size is $1.25M

    Baseline specifications

    Our baseline specifications are of the highest order. We maximise the internal square footage to allow for internal space design, by extending the rear of the property and digging out the basement. We fully replace the roof, windows, internal staircases, as well as rebuild all chimney flues to allow for working fireplaces. The electricity, plumbing and boilers, are also completely renewed. Front and rear yards are landscaped. All along, we keep in mind the historic nature of the buildings, restoring or recreating period features in harmony with the neighbourhood. For the interior, we source materials and work with experts to revive the home’s historical soul, with a contemporary feel. 

    Location / Site

    We know our brownstones and we know our neighbourhoods. All of our target sites are on minimum 19 feet by 100 feet lots, with four floors, and with original brownstone facades and features that can be restored. We also chose sites no closer than 100 feet from the end of the street to reduce idling traffic noise.

    Tech Fit Out

    We integrate technology discreetly into these classic homes. The Brownstone Project homes are fully networked with full Category 6 cabling throughout, with server racks and switches. We use Nest learning thermostats and include Google Home devices in the build. We work with AV options such as laser projectors and recessed screens, Sonos speakers and more. 

    Security at Heart
     

    Safety is our core consideration. We install sprinkler systems through the house, removing the need for visually un-appealing and insecure fire escapes on the front or rear of the house. We install Nest smoke detectors. When it comes to home security we install Ring video doorbell systems, Ring motion activated security camera and floodlights at all entry points.
     

    Green & Energy Efficient
     

    A brownstone may be over one hundred years old, but with the right focus and expertise, a high level of energy efficiency and environmental care can be achieved. We install thermal windows, use spray foam insulation and wall insulation throughout, run ducted heating/cooling, all controlled by Nest learning thermostats. We work with Brooklyn Solar Works to install rooftop solar panels that cover at least 50% of the property’s energy, and allow for energy usage monitoring.
     

    Noise Reduction
     

    Old homes can be noisy so we install acoustic matting between floors, joist gasket tape, suspended ceilings, spray foam sealing, and modern windows. 
     

    Appliances

    Our clients demand the very best level of performance and durability and that’s why our standard is Wolf Ranges and Sub Zero Appliances, with minimum Kohler fittings, and fixtures.
     

    Interior Design
     

    Working with our interior design partners, we can also fully furnish your new home.
     

    Landscape Design
     

    Working with our landscape design partner, we design yards and garden suited to the needs of the client. We work with the finest tree nurseries, from which clients are able to personally select their new green friends.