A Brooklyn Brownstone That Fuses Eclecticism with Family-Friendly Design
Nestled on a tree-lined street in one of Brooklyn's trendiest neighbourhoods, a newly built brownstone home has become the perfect haven for a young couple, their new baby, and the ideal space for gathering. With a bespoke design by Lucy Harris Studio, this stunning townhouse redefines what it means to create a home that's both functional and beautiful.
A Vision of Family Life
The young family, who live full-time in the home, approached Lucy Harris with a clear vision: they wanted a sanctuary that would feel tranquil yet vibrant, calm yet full of character. At the heart of the project was the need for a space that could grow with them as their family expanded. The clients’ new baby arrived while the home was being designed, adding an additional layer of emotion and significance to the process. Harris carefully crafted a home that would be both alluring and baby-ready, focusing on open, comfortable spaces that invited connection and quality time.
Nature and Travel Inspirations
The couple’s love of nature played a pivotal role in the design, particularly their extensive hiking trips in the southwestern U.S. The interior's palette reflects this influence - soft neutrals accented with deep greens, blues, earthy oranges, and yellows - bringing the outdoors in. But instead of directly mimicking landscapes, Harris infused the home with these elements through a more abstract and artistic lens.
Travel was another key influence. With a deep appreciation for their experiences abroad, the owners embraced an eclectic mix of vintage pieces and works from small-scale makers, infusing the home with layers of meaning and a sense of wanderlust.
Eclecticism with Purpose
Harris’s design philosophy centres on what she describes as the “impossible bouquet” - blending disparate elements and styles to create something that feels both cohesive and unexpected. The result is a visually stunning home where modernity meets the charm of vintage items. In the dining room, a custom-built banquette in lush moss-coloured fabric contrasts with the simple elegance of the Marathon Table by Yucca Stuff. Vintage ceramics add texture and history, while sculptural art pieces offer a personal touch.
Harris’s approach here was to keep the spaces youthful and playful without sacrificing sophistication. Geometric patterns, playful details, and bold textures introduce fun into every room, while natural materials like rattan, cork, and wood create a sense of grounded calm.
Indoor Meets Outdoor
The home’s lush outdoor spaces were just as carefully designed. From the front to the back garden, Harris focused on creating a landscape that would seamlessly complement the interior. The terrace, with its mix of cosy, stylish furniture like Fermob chairs and Croft House tables, offers the perfect spot for al fresco dining or a quiet moment of reflection.
This seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors was intentional. Vibrant houseplants - many of which the owners have lovingly collected - blur the boundaries between the living space and nature. The skylights and large glass doors further enhance the light, airy feel of the home, inviting natural light to pour in and filling the space with warmth.
A Home Full of Life
This is a place where life happens. Whether it’s the couple hosting friends on the terrace, playing in the spacious living room, or simply enjoying quiet moments in the nursery, the home is a reflection of the family’s evolving journey, with every design decision made to support their lifestyle.
In this Brooklyn brownstone, Lucy Harris Studio has succeeded in creating a timeless, eclectic home that is as much about family and connection as it is about style. The space effortlessly blends practical design with artistic expression, creating a sanctuary where memories will be made for years to come.
Credits
Photosgraphy by Brian W. Ferry, Instagram: @brianwferry
Styling by Katja Greeff, Instagram: @katjagreeff
Interior design by Lucy Harris Studio, Instagram: @lucyharrisnyc
Landscape Architecture by Michael Cafiero