CWB was featured in an article about current brownstone renovations in Brooklyn and how the process has evolved since the early ’70s.  Our own restoration project, Carroll Gardens Comeback, was featured as an example of a modern brownstone reno.  Check out the article here.

Looking to advance their “Own Your Home” blog, Street Easy asked Brendan Coburn to contribute a series of articles highlighting Brooklyn’s brownstone row houses. Brownstone renovations are an essential part of what we do here at CWB, each new project presenting its own unique blend of issues.

Restoring the facade of this Brooklyn Heights row house was not originally part of this renovation.  Nature, however, had other plans.  During Hurricane Irene in 2011, a large (and notably historic) American elm tree fell onto the facade, creating significant damage to the existing asbestos clapboard siding.  The Owner was forced to explore options for new siding and finally decided upon historically appropriate wood clapboard through the direction of the Landmarks Preservation Commission.  The final result has given the house an enhanced presence on the street, re-establishing its historical origins. BEFORE and... ... AFTER AFTER photographs by Aviad Barness Partner in Charge: Brendan Coburn Project Architect: Brian Hagood Contractor: Creative Renovations

The stairs at this 4-story row house in Boerum Hill had to be refurbished and the original railing had been replaced during a previous renovation. To replicate the original detailing with a winding wooden handrail would have forced the Owner to sacrifice in other areas. They needed an option that would showcase the stair while being relatively inexpensive. CWB came up with a sculptural steel and walnut railing extending from the top of the stairs to the entry hall at the parlor level. These snapshots show the early stages of installation. At the 2nd floor, an old fireplace gets a modern face-lift in the new family room. This custom mantel incorporates storage and functionality with an L-shaped hearth stone, currently hidden to protect it during construction. The fireplace surround will be surfaced with a Venetian Plaster finish. Project Architect: Brian Hagood Project Team: Rachael Stollar (& photos taken by) Contractor: E.L. Contracting