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DESIGN
BROOKLYN Known for its artistic and cultural diversity, Brooklyn has become a mecca for residential design. The borough brims with innovative and visionary professionals, from interior designers to purveyors of luxury bedding, kitchen and bath products, high-end surfaces, unique door solutions and more. Describing Brooklyn is no simple endeavor, given its countless neighborhoods, each of which has its own signature aesthetic. Still, some things are true of the borough as a whole: It is always changing; alive with inspiration and ideas; inhabited by people who radiate passion; and altogether collaborative. Read on, and discover the state of Brooklyn’s residential design community from the luminaries responsible for creating it.
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Downright
Hot Spots
4603 First Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 718.788.6363 | downrightltd.com
“Over the next decade, Brooklyn will see more commerce, more talent and more diversity.”
+ Barclays Center + Prospect Park + Brooklyn Bridge Park + Bush Terminal Park + Sheepshead Bay + Coney Island + Williamsburg
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nown for the diversity of people, cultures and aesthetics it houses, Brooklyn is home to experts who continually redefine the design industry. One such expert is Miriam Fried, secondgeneration owner and executive officer of Downright, a manufacturer of comforters, pillows, featherbeds and more of the finest quality. Catering to retailers, hotels and design professionals, Downright specializes in flexibility and customization. Upon hearing Fried speak of common misconceptions pertaining to her industry and product, the knowledge of an expert proves its value. “People think they are allergic to down, when in fact, many are only allergic to down or feathers that are not properly washed and sterilized,” she explains. “At Downright, we use a unique OxyD® cleaning process, through which our downs are washed twice and rinsed four times with soaps, sanitizers and deodorizers. Our downs don’t meet the hypoallergenic standards—they exceed them by far.” It is this level of detail, dedication and expertise that sets the businesses of Brooklyn apart from the rest. Of the characteristics that make the borough a worldwide destination, Fried has a unique perspective. “Brooklyn’s culture is evolving from the candy stores, delicatessens and small momand-pop enterprises to establishments catering to the young millennial, who makes Brooklyn his or her first home and, perhaps, builds a business here,” she says. “The design community has access to the style and production experience of the longstanding businesses and the newer talent of the startups.”
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HERITAGE OF THE BOROUGH Downright began as a small-scale down and feather operation on a quaint European farm. It was current executive officer Miriam Fried’s parents who brought the business, and its old-country traditions and values, to Brooklyn. Fried says this story is one you will often hear within the borough. “Brooklyn was the first stop for many Eastern European immigrants looking to start a new life,” she says. “It had attractive housing and available industrial spaces, as well as a small-town flavor enhanced by houses of worship and a social infrastructure. It quickly became home to suppliers for all aspects of manufacturing, and today, nearly all of our products are created right here in our Brooklyn plant, which affords us a certain cachet nationwide.”
1. This magnificent comforter and pillow from the Himalaya Collection were handcrafted with the finest raw materials. 2. Sumptuous, silky fabric and superior loft make the Nirvana comforter and pillow an excellent choice. 3. Nature’s best, the Organa comforter’s shell combines GOTS certified organic cotton and TENCEL® lyocell, a natural, renewable fiber.
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HG Stones
272 Johnson Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 718.383.6708 | hgstones.com
“Brooklyn has become remarkably self-sustainable. Oftentimes, residents are reluctant to travel to Manhattan, because Brooklyn has it all.”
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riginally founded with only one employee and a focus on Indian granites, HG Stones has grown into a major brand offering a plethora of surfacing solutions—and it calls New York home. With locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, principal Babu Reddy has a unique perspective on the cultural differences between the two. “We first opened in Brooklyn in 1998,” Reddy says. “It started off as a convenient location, right across the river from Manhattan, but as Brooklyn evolved, it played a role in HG Stones’ growth into a dynamic and vibrant surface marketplace.” Showcasing everything from granite and marble to onyx and soapstone in an array of collections from the best brands in the industry, HG Stones has become a well-known resource for design professionals and homeowners alike. The purveyor of surfaces, which owns and operates its own quarries and facilities, is located in Bushwick, just one of many neighborhoods within the borough. Of Brooklyn’s evolution, Reddy says, “It will continue to grow into a rich and diverse community offering great restaurants, shops and parking, among other attractive elements.”
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LIFE + WORK IN BROOKLYN: A CONVERSATION WITH BABU REDDY What do you like most about your job? Apart from creating jobs, everyday problem-solving and creativity in this dynamic field. It keeps the cognitive power of the brain alive. What is your advice to someone visiting Brooklyn for the first time? Travel to different areas, such as Williamsburg, Greenpoint and Bushwick; and enjoy the diversity, restaurants and activities. Describe the culture in Brooklyn and its evolution over time. How has this affected your business? There are many young and creative people making the workforce more interesting. The real estate market has skyrocketed in the past 10 years, with huge projects, including the Barclays Center. Hence, many architects and designers have stepped into the Brooklyn market. How would you describe your clientele? Extremely resourceful, knowledgeable and savvy. They have high standards for quality and service.
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1. This office at 30 Bayard Street features a Statuary White marble desk and Neolith’s Basalt Black on the walls and desk surround. 2. Calacatta Gold marble defines this kitchen.
Neolith Calacatta / Beton
EXPERIENCE the endless possibilities of natural, engineered and semi‑precious stone at our showrooms or online at hgstones.com
800.216.0670 /hgstones /
Calacatta Amadeus
MANHATTAN 212.964.0900 28 W. 25th Street New York, NY 10010
Calacatta Marble
BROOKLYN
LONG ISLAND
718.383.6708 272 Johnson Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11206
631.300.0004 65 Davids Dr. Hauppauge, NY 11788
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Home & Stone 1663 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 718.787.1000 | homeandstone.com
“Brooklyn is a place to find great architecture, close-knit communities and hidden gems.”
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uthentic. Creative. Tenacious. These are the words through which Home & Stone founder Abraham Tikotzky and general manager Sammy Winehouse describe Brooklyn. A purveyor of luxury kitchen and bath products with a 4,000-square-foot showroom where customers can find the highest quality collections, design expertise and personal attention, Home & Stone has been a staple in Brooklyn’s design community for more than three decades. “We maintain close relationships with architects and interior designers, who frequent our showroom knowing they will receive individual attention and unparalleled service,” Tikotzky says. In speaking to the borough’s historic charm and its role in future development, Winehouse notes the impact of Brooklyn’s creative freedom. “It is rich in heritage and experimentation, and artists and makers of all kinds are finding themselves genuinely at home here,” Winehouse says. “While new designs continue to come from other parts of the world, it’s exciting for us to offer brands like Watermark, which manufactures right here in Brooklyn.” 1 forward-thinking business concepts With and uncommonly creative pursuits, it is the individuals residing within Brooklyn that make it so luminous. To that end, Tikotzky and Winehouse point to their clients as being central to their love of the borough. “It’s very exciting to help people fulfill their vision for their homes,” Tikotzky says. “Bringing our customers’ dreams to fruition is a source of true satisfaction.”
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BUSINESS IN THE BOROUGH WITH ABRAHAM TIKOTZKY AND SAMMY WINEHOUSE What makes Brooklyn unique? The recent cultural explosion has tapped into Brooklyn’s authenticity and rugged personality. The vibrant blend of cultures is endlessly inspiring and the warmth of the communities is evident in the influx of young families and the thriving small business scene. Describe the culture in Brooklyn and how it affects your business. Brooklyn has become the destination for the finest handmade furniture, the most creative wallpaper and the latest trends in fixtures. Industrial chic is the heart of Brooklyn, and we love that it’s making its way to the rest of the world. How would you describe your clientele? While some customers know exactly what they’re looking for, others come seeking design guidance and technical advice. Our staff ’s extensive industry knowledge is paramount in all situations.
1. This double sink bathroom has individual vanities and medicine cabinets and a mosaic accent wall. 2. Custom designed, this vanity features vessel sinks and wall-mounted crystal faucets. 3. A freestanding tub with built-in armrest completes this luxurious master bath.
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Home&Stone FIXTURES FAUCETS HARDWARE ACCESSORIES 1663 Coney Island Avenue Brooklyn NY 11230 Monday–Wednesday 9am–5:30pm Thursday 9am –7pm Sunday 11am–5pm Valet Parking Appointments Welcome 718.787.1000 www.homeandstone.com
Watermark Elan Vital Bathroom Faucet
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Kitchen & Bath Gallery of Brooklyn
The Brooklyn Client “We have a diversified group of clientele,” Acquavella says. “Younger first-time owners are hard at work making their mark on society and those who have been in the family brownstone their entire lives are renovating to hand them down to future generations. They want to take advantage of the latest styles and technologies when improving and enhancing their investment.”
299 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 718.259.8010 | kbgbrooklyn.com
“Brooklyn has quickly become the new Manhattan, from fine shopping and dining to elite entertainment venues.”
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he supplier of choice for plumbers, developers, contractors and homeowners since 1960, Kitchen & Bath Gallery of Brooklyn and its parent company Solco Plumbing Supply proudly distribute domestically manufactured products. “Today, 90 percent of our inventory is produced in America,” says director of sales and marketing Tom Acquavella. “We believe that in today’s economic environment, it is especially important to remember the American manufacturer.” Given this dedication to domestic production, it comes as no surprise to learn that Acquavella and his team are equally loyal to Brooklyn, the home of Kitchen & Bath Gallery of Brooklyn’s state-of-the-art showroom. “We knew we had to be located in the heart of the Downtown Brooklyn shopping district,” Acquavella says. “There are so many reasons for clients to come to this area of the borough. The neighborhood buzzes with great shopping—much related to home improvement—dining and the number one entertainment venue in the country: the Barclays Center.” Offering the best brands and latest technology to the public and trade, Kitchen & Bath Gallery of Brooklyn has become a staple in the community, even earning the title of Kohler Premier Showroom, a designation awarded as a result of high-quality production and presentation standards. “Whether your project is a budget-minded remodel or a multiroom commercial project, our experienced staff will provide you with personal one-on-one consultation, expert knowledge and unmatched service,” Acquavella says.
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WHEN IN THE BOROUGH: A CONVERSATION WITH TOM ACQUAVELLA What are some local design events? We recently had our grand opening event. It was attended by dozens of local designers and developers. World-renowned local designer Laura Kirar was on hand to give a sneak preview of her new bath collection for Kallista. How do you view Brooklyn changing over the next decade? It is becoming
1. This showroom display features a custom, high-gloss wood vanity with a crystal, lighted medicine cabinet, a Perrin & Rowe by Rohl console table, a hand-molded china top with matching toilet and an MTI bathtub. 2. Stroll the aisles for the latest styles and water-saving technology from Kohler.
DESIGN
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an epicenter. Hotels, high-end residential living and entertainment will make it the place to live and visit. What is your advice to someone visiting Brooklyn for the first time? Leave yourself time to take in the culture, walk the streets, have a great meal and view the breathtaking classic and modern architecture. 2
YOUR DREAM KITCHEN & BATHROOM IS WAITING
WE’RE BROOKLYN’S ONLY KOHLER PREMIER SHOWROOM Located in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, Kitchen & Bath Gallery is your one-stop shop for everything you need to make your new kitchen or bath everything you ever desired...and more! So whatever your budget, space or taste, we will not only meet your expectations, but exceed them. Schedule your complimentary consultation today.
SHOWROOM: 299 Atlantic Avenue • Brooklyn, NY 11201 718.259.8010 • www.kbgbrooklyn.com
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Me and General Design 195 Plymouth Street, Suite 520, Brooklyn, New York 718.404.9529 | meandgeneraldesign.com
“We strive to create moods and lifestyles, push creative boundaries, promote relaxation and make people aspire to something.” 1
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place of ever-changing aesthetic interests and cultural scenes, Brooklyn has become a mecca for design and home to some of the industry’s most groundbreaking creators. Enter Cristina and General Judd, the husbandand-wife team responsible for awardwinning interior design firm Me and General Design. Cristina, a former film set decorator, and General, a member of Blue Man Group, founded the firm in their Clinton Hill apartment out of a shared desire to pursue their passion for stylish and functional design. “We think of the whole brand picture for our clients, offering to design custom wallpapers and site-specific products, such as the Swick Board, a sound system housed in a surfboard,” General says. “This gives the client something they can completely own. It’s our opportunity to push ourselves strategically and creatively and exceed client expectations.” And that they do. Bringing together that which is interesting about a specific neighborhood, client or lifestyle, Cristina and General weave “360-degree stories,” a process that includes mixing old and new design elements, breaking rules and defying trends to capture 1 Brooklyn’s unique vibe. The combination of long-standing businesses and startups makes for an interesting dynamic in the community, and according to the Judds, the collaboration between the two is in part responsible for the borough’s one-of-a-kind aesthetic and the influence it has worldwide. “Me and General Design has a long vendor list that includes well-established businesses that have been around for more than 100 years, as well as startups,” Cristina says. “The support we can give each other, regardless of how long a vendor has been around, is for the betterment of the community.”
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1. Formerly the Peaks Mason Mints candy factory, this 20 Henry Street condominium blends the two periods harmoniously. 2. New York City’s first market-rate rental to meet passive-house standards, this Hamilton Heights residence was designed from the ground up by Me and General Design.
Local Favorites Creative Hub. “We love Brooklyn Flea and BKLYN DESIGNS, one of the first design fairs showcasing emerging and established brands, held in the Brooklyn Expo Center in Greenpoint every year,” Cristina says. Growing Community. Brooklyn, with its iconic style and rich culture, has become an international destination. It continues to grow, from new towers rising up to the classic brownstone-lined blocks. It is where everyone wants to be. FamilyCentric Destinations. “On the weekends, we often take the kids to Grand Army Plaza, GrowNYC in Fort Greene and the Brooklyn Museum,” General says.
THE BOROUGH’S CHARM: A CONVERSATION WITH CRISTINA AND GENERAL JUDD What makes Brooklyn unique? It’s the history that lives within the architecture of our borough, its stories and people. Brooklyn has always been and always will be bursting with excitement. It is forever shaping and reshaping itself and now the rest of the world. You can’t buy it, but you can buy into it. What is your advice to someone visiting Brooklyn for the first time? Visit all of the neighborhoods to see how colorful and unique they each are. Learn its history and take the subway, because it’s a vital part of the total experience. This is the real Brooklyn. Describe the culture in Brooklyn and how it affects your business. It can vary from block to block and neighborhood to neighborhood. The real estate market is exploding everywhere and becoming more style-conscious, creating more business opportunities for local design firms like ours.
#badassdesign mixing design elements. defying trends. creating custom products. shaping lifestyles.
architectural interior design / residential renovations & new development / custom wallpapers & products, including Swick Board BROOKLYN 718.404.9529 meandgeneraldesign.com
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Signature Interior Designs 4223 First Avenue, Fourth Floor, Brooklyn, New York 718.439.6888 | signaturedesignsny.com
COLLABORATIVE CULTURE “South Brooklyn is not just a historic neighborhood, but also a vibrant, lively community with an invigorating creativity,” Baez explains. “People come together from all backgrounds to collaborate with talented and passionate individuals. We have extensive opportunities to work with aspiring architects, numerous local vendors and skilled
“Our clients value the time we take to understand their style and needs. We build relationships of trust and respect to execute not only beautiful, dynamic spaces, but also solutions for better living. ”
home builders, ensuring innovative designs and the finest end result. In a center of artisanal craft, inventive design and leading-edge technology, we are inspired by our surroundings every day.”
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full-service interior design firm and showroom located in the heart of Brooklyn, Signature Interior Designs boasts a diverse portfolio of high-end kitchens, exclusive private residences, luxury multiunit buildings and upscale residential lobbies. “Our objective is to provide the best design solutions, products and executions,” says principal designer Minda Baez. “We strive to exceed client expectations by creating dynamic, compelling and functional habitats.” Founded by Eugene Langsam after he identified a need for fine custom kitchens and design services in Brooklyn, Signature Interior Designs has been doing business in the borough for more than 30 years and has witnessed Brooklyn’s renaissance. “Brooklyn will always be synonymous with brownstones, but the emerging architecture has created great momentum for urban luxury living.” Baez goes on to describe the borough as “a celebration of good planning that has led to an explosion in residential, commercial and cultural growth.” As Brooklyn’s architectural composition is brimming with diversity, Signature Interior Designs has found itself surrounded by a wealth of multiplicity in design. “From well-kept and stately brownstones and classically styled Victorian town houses to luxury custom homes and newly built high-rise condominiums, the opportunity to provide great design experiences and products for such a range of projects and clients is invigorating,” Baez says.
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A Saturday in Brooklyn
“There is no more desirable way to start a day in Brooklyn than with a run in Prospect Park, followed by a decadent brunch of ricotta crostini and biscuits benedict at Colonie in Brooklyn Heights,” Baez says. “From there, you are perfectly situated for an afternoon lounging in Brooklyn Bridge Park, enjoying the green spaces, public art and inspirational skyline. With Brooklyn’s ever-evolving food scene, Saturday night is a great time to try a new restaurant. Cap it off with a great gin cocktail at Grand Army bar.”
1. This sleek, refined and visually striking twotoned kitchen illustrates the juxtaposition of new ideas and the familiar. 2. The dinette is a perfect fusion of sharp, masculine lines and ladylike embellishments. Photography by Jayd Jackson.
DESIGN
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SIG NATU RE I NTERIOR DES IGNS Dynamic Interior Designs | Luxury Kitchens | Fine Custom Cabinetry
4223 1st Avenue, 4th Floor, Brooklyn, New York | 718.439.6888 | Inquiries@SignatureDesignsNY.com | SignatureDesignsNY.com
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The Sliding Door Company
A Saturday in Brooklyn “My ideal Saturday would no doubt start with an early brunch in downtown Brooklyn, followed by some outdoor fun at either Prospect Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park,” Jacobs says. “I would also make my way from store to store, as there are always original places to discover.”
309 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 718.222.3800 | slidingdoorco.com
“We have a very eclectic design community, ranging from traditional or transitional to modern and contemporary.”
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ed by East Coast president Ron Jacobs, The Sliding Door Company aims to provide the best and most economical interior space solutions to both residential and commercial clients, all while maintaining the core principles of its philosophy: safety first and quality always. After opening its first showroom in Manhattan, the company recognized an opportunity in Brooklyn. As Jacobs tells it, the expansion was a no-brainer. “The two major factors in opening our Brooklyn location were customer demands for a local presence and an understanding of the benefits such an exceptional design district could offer,” he says. “With an everevolving design community and events like BKLYN DESIGNS, the borough offers room to grow and innovate in the industry.” Asked to describe his clientele, Jacobs begins by noting that his Brooklyn patrons are wholly unique. “Our clientele is hard to put in a single category,” he says. “They range from a large corporation in downtown to a startup in Williamsburg; from high-end designers in luxury high-rises to a small family making room for their new addition in Park Slope.” Whether visiting for the first time or 1 searching for a place to settle, Brooklyn’s array of neighborhoods and destinations can make knowing where to start difficult. Jacobs’ advice is simple: explore. “Give yourself time to wander and soak it all in,” he says. “Brooklyn is a huge borough, so take the train to cover more ground, from the flea markets in Williamsburg all the way to Coney Island.”
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DEFINING THE BOROUGH WITH RON JACOBS 1. A frosted glass room divider in the Trio design separates this elegant master bathroom. Renovation by Renewal Design-Build. 2. This luxury high-rise features a frosted glass room divider in the popular Continental design. 3. Sliding pantry doors with frosted glass and silver frames complete this clean and contemporary kitchen.
DESIGN
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Diverse
Cultural
Thriving
What sets Brooklyn apart is how
I feel that although Brooklyn is known for
I love to see how much we’ve grown in the
each neighborhood is different and
its historic buildings, many residents are
last 10 years, overcoming challenges and
has something eclectic about it. This is
trying to incorporate a modern flair in their
creating a household brand in the community.
reflected in the culture, cuisine and
homes. That’s where we come in, because
Over the next decade, the Brooklyn skyline
scenery. Every day brings an opportunity
our products add a touch of modernization
will become unrecognizable. It is becoming
to expand your horizons.
without taking too much away from the
the go-to destination for anything in the
home’s traditional feel.
design trade. If you want it, Brooklyn has it.
Design your inner space.
Get inspired by our interior room dividers. For more information please call or visit: Brooklyn Showroom 309 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 222-3800 or log on to: nyslidingdoor.com CLOSET DOORS + ROOM DIVIDERS + WALL SLIDE DOORS + OFFICE PARTITIONS
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Theresa Seabaugh Interiors
Must See, Must Do + Pick any two neighborhoods and walk them end to end. + Walk through Prospect Park, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Grand Army Plaza and the Brooklyn Museum. + Take the train to Coney Island and Brighton Beach. + Explore Bushwick. It is evolving into a super cool, artsy neighborhood. + Eat! Brooklyn has the best bagels, pizza, beer and artisanal ice cream you will ever find.
47 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn, New York 718.399.1603 | seabaughinteriors.com
“There is so much energy in Brooklyn, and it’s driven by constant change. I’m always inspired.”
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local for more than 20 years, Theresa Seabaugh knows Brooklyn like the back of her hand—no small feat, considering the borough’s constantly changing atmosphere. “It has always had an edgy, creative, slightly gritty, but warm and friendly vibe,” says Seabaugh, the owner and principal designer of her namesake firm, Theresa Seabaugh Interiors. “It’s a completely different feeling than being in Manhattan, and setting up my firm here was an easy decision. Brooklyn is about seeking out the gems that are dotted around the borough, such as flea markets, niche design stores, furniture makers, small manufacturers and art galleries.” Seabaugh goes on to note that the simple act of walking around is influential when you’re in Brooklyn, as the architecture changes each time you turn a corner. The amalgam of styles within this unique slice of New York is the inspiration of local luminaries like Seabaugh, who identifies customization and the mixture of old and new as themes within her portfolio. “I love so many aspects of what I do: getting to know my clients so well I can anticipate their needs and desires; collaborating with artisans to craft a perfect custom piece; and mixing my clients’ beloved family heirlooms with contemporary items to create a personalized space,” Seabaugh says. “Brooklyn has a mixture of cultures and a strong community focus, and I want to absorb that vitality.”
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THERESA SEABAUGH’S TAKE ON BROOKLYN’S EVOLVING LANDSCAPE Family Life
Harbor Views
Emerging Neighborhoods
Brooklyn will continue to draw people
Brooklyn Bridge Park is fantastic and if
Areas that were once on the fringe continue
in because it is a great place to raise a
you research waterfront development
to change and grow in popularity. Dumbo is
family. It used to be that a lot of people
you will see there are many great
the most expensive neighborhood in Brooklyn,
moved to the suburbs, but now they are
things on the horizon.
even though it’s off the beaten track, because you get great views of Manhattan. Gowanus
staying. The public schools continue
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BROOKLYN
to improve and the parks just keep
Culinary Allure
will transform in the next 10 years to become
getting better.
The food scene will remain a big draw.
a beautiful place.
1. The living room of this classic Brooklyn brownstone features original woodwork detailed in white. 2. This modern duplex condominium was designed in a mix of gray tones for a busy family with small children. Photography by Kaysh Shinn.
T heresa s eabaugh I nTerIors 718.399.1603 | seabaughinteriors.com