Built in 1882, this Brooklyn brownstone home boasted much of its original character. However, the interior of the building had deteriorated significantly over the past century, and the layout inside was awkward. New York City-based Dan DiClerico and his family bought this home with the hope of restoring it and renovating it for themselves.
The family had a lot of requirements for this kitchen, including an efficient layout, ample storage and a versatile lighting plan. DiClerico also wanted to preserve as much of the original building’s integrity as possible.
This light-filled kitchen is the result of many heated discussions – DiClerico wanted an L-shaped kitchen, but his wife saw the advantage of having an entirely glass wall looking out onto the garden. The result is a hybrid, with a mostly glass wall and a slightly smaller, L-shaped kitchen.
“With the early morning light coming in and the breeze blowing through the ornamental grasses we planted on the terrace, this kitchen is one of my favorite spots in the world,” said DiClerico. “It’s pretty awesome when your home gives you that kind of pleasure and satisfaction.”
The initial plan was to have the shower occupy an entire side of the bathroom, but the budget was slimmer for the bath, and they needed more room for a laundry space. Having a smaller shower – and stealing room from the master for the laundry – solves both issues.
Another budget-friendly decision was the inexpensive but classic subway tile that covers the bottom half of the walls and inside the shower.
“A frameless glass door was a splurge, but it was well worth it for the way it lets the daylight pour into the shower,” said DiClerico.