Welcome to New Heights Reno, an interior design project where we embraced the challenge of turning a blank modern slate into a warm, character-filled home. Tasked with adding historical charm to a newly renovated condo, we blended timeless design elements with personalized touches to create a space that truly feels like home. Join us as we dive into the details of this transformation and explore how we brought Brownstone style to new heights!
When we first met our client, Barb, of #NewHeightsReno, we knew this project was going to be special. Barb had downsized from her very own Brooklyn Brownstone to a three bedroom co-op apartment in one of the best neighborhoods-Brooklyn Heights.
Her new block was a dream, with tree-lined streets, proximity to the water, all in a gorgeous “old” building with a new gym. However, with modern convenience came modern design that made Barb miss the home she’d left behind in her Brownstone.
That’s where we came in! We brought charm and character back into this new construction using wainscoting, paneling, adding additional lighting , warming up spaces, and adding a healthy dose of color. We reimagined the living space and created an oasis where Barb could take her retirement to new heights.
We had the best time bringing life back into this space and we hope you enjoy our latest home tour! Be sure to keep reading for a list and links of all the items we used to design this space!
THE LIVING ROOM
The living room at #NewHeightsMakeover was one of our greatest, and most satisfying, challenges! Originally, this room was clad with plain beige walls, a bulky built-in that took up half the room, and almost no color. Though our client wanted to keep the color on the walls minimal, we added dimension by painting the walls in Farrow & Ball’s Pointing in Dead Flat and then the window casings in their Lime White color in an estate eggshell finish, two shades darker than the color on the walls, to make it more visually interesting. We made the decision to forego the storage provided in the built-in to open up the space, and added paneling on the walls to give it that classic New York character our client so missed. When it was time to bring furniture into the space, we knew Arhaus was the brand to do it with. We opted for their In Motion recliner sofa, because what’s retirement without a recliner? We paired it with a beautiful large art piece, two new wall sconces, a marble top coffee table, and this stunning rug to infuse the room with texture and color.
Right off the living room, we played into the original layout and created a lovely dining space using more finds from Arhaus, including our favorite hutch, Finnley dining table, and Kirsten dining chairs. We kept this area simple and clean, since it’s a small space, so the room would have a nice, open flow.
The last part of this open flow living space was the kitchen. Though we didn’t do much to change the structure of the kitchen, we brought in some of the character Barb had been missing by adding touches of color and texture throughout the space. We painted the cabinetry and wrapped the refrigerator in the same color, Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue. Then, we added open shelving from Shelfology to make the space feel a little more storied and lived in!
Though Barb is retired, we still wanted to create an office space for her that functioned more as a cozy place to read and lounge. We decided to drench this room in a bold color, thats where Farrow & Ball’s Sloe Blue and add a built-in over the sofa where our client could display photos, art, and books to personalize the space and create a dark and moody library. We especially love the Mohair chair from Klarel and the Foliole light fixture from Hennepinmade. The mix of dark, cool tones in this room makes it relaxing and tranquil–the perfect place to curl up with a good book!
Barb has three kids who are everything to her, so we knew that we needed to make sure this guest bedroom would be so comfortable and inviting that they could all take turns coming to visit her, and really make it feel like a home away from home. We were so excited to feature Thuma in this bedroom, including the bed frame and bedding, nightstands, and the accompanying bench. We love Thuma beds for their sleek, minimalist design and eco-friendly craftsmanship, making them not just beautiful but meaningful additions to any room. The simple design of the Classic Bed was the perfect understated addition to this room, and we love the way the bench creates this little cozy window seat beneath the tree outside.
In the primary bedroom, we created a space where Barb could relax, unwind, and hang out with her pup, Frankie. She wanted this room to be neutral in color, so we added limewash to the walls using Portola in shade Soapstone to add depth and texture to the walls. We also created a pocket door to the closet for a cleaner look in the entry that’s so reminiscent of the brownstone Barb downsized from. For bedroom furniture, we opted for the Adalynn bed, Felton dresser, and matching Felton nightstands for a sleek look. We topped off the room with a sleek, leather-clad ceiling fan from Design Within Reach, and finished with bedding & a wall hanging to match from the citizenry to complete the space.
Last but not least, the hallway at #NewHeightsReno was reimagined as a grand entryway and exit that sets the tone for the entire space. We added wainscoting for architectural charm, instantly bringing a sense of history to the previously plain walls. Farrow & Ball’s Inchyra Blue gives the space depth and continuity, tying beautifully into the office and living areas. To make it truly personal, we curated a Framebridge gallery wall showcasing Barb’s most cherished memories, ensuring that every trip through the hallway feels meaningful and steeped in nostalgia. To compliment the space our favorite Virginia Sin coat hooks were added to a blank wall.
This project was so special to us, and we had the best time bringing a little Brownstone to Brooklyn Heights. Make sure to watch our vlog (will link) to catch all the details, and follow along on Instagram for more photos!
All photos by Kyle J. Caldwell
