Peaceful Hideaway – Cobble Hill Townhouse by Studio Vural and Claire Hung Design
A blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design, Cobble Hill Townhouse emerges as a warm family abode discreetly nestled away from the street, providing a secluded sanctuary for its British-Swiss owners. Claire Hung Design and Studio Vural craft a timeless home where handmade craftsmanship is combined with a modern aesthetic.
Contributing to the character of a New York City street, Cobble Hill Townhouse sits within a pre-existing brownstone-style dwelling in the suburb of the same name. Situated amid the rowed streets of inner Brooklyn and Manhattan, the preservation of the facade was a pivotal aspect of the two-year transformation process. Infusing design elements from their individual cultural backgrounds – hailing from the United Kingdom and Switzerland – the owners desired a residence that resonated with the familiarity of their respective homelands while capturing the essence of living in New York City. Collaborating with Studio Vural, Claire Hung Design completes the envisioned interior with precision.
Preserving the history of the Italianate-style brownstone, each new addition was carefully assessed to ensure its compatibility with the retained detailing and traditional elements. Originally built in 1910, the house serves as a peaceful retreat within the busy city, featuring clean lines and a calming ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the timeless principles of Japanese and Scandinavian design, the focus is on achieving quality finishes throughout by collaborating with skilled artisans. The introduction of oak in the joinery imparts a fresh yet warm atmosphere, creating a natural connection to the everyday moments in the home.
Deepening the already rich textures within the residence, travertine with a limewash has been seamlessly incorporated throughout to soften transitions between painted plaster and timber. Subtle expressions of the owners’ personalities and connections to their heritage are subtly woven into the home, complemented by the careful curation of existing objects, artwork and furniture, which is further enhanced by new selections. The transformation from day to night, as well as interactions with the architecture, is elevated by thoughtfully chosen lighting and metal fixtures. Collaboration was important from the start, with the owners actively working alongside both the architect and interior designer to imbue a piece of themselves into the final design.
