Hicks Street by Claire Hung Design
Navigating the confined interior of a pre-war Art Deco building in Brooklyn Heights, Claire Hung Design thoughtfully transforms Hicks Street for its owners. The design harmonises various gestures to achieve desired liveability while incorporating personal touches and preserving the building’s existing character.
Nestled within St. George Tower, originally designed by architect Emery Roth, Hicks Street boasts a rich history. The building underwent its last renovation in the 1970s, transitioning from a hotel to a series of co-op apartments, each awaiting a contemporary update. Reflecting on their apartment search during that time, owner Kristina reminisces, “this one stood out for its historic building. It was a grand hotel in the 1930s, where movies were filmed, where presidents stayed, and it was in the neighbourhood we wanted to live in. We put in an offer the day after we saw it.” Collaborating with Claire Hung Design, the transformation process began, weaving together the owners’ passions and desired lifestyle.
From the beginning, the emphasis was on maximising impact while minimising intervention. “The homeowners sought minimal changes,” says Claire Hung, founder and director of Claire Hung Design. “We want to reduce waste in the future by designing for evolutions of either the current or future owners. This is also why we eschew design trends, and we tell our clients this at the very beginning of the project before we go into contract.” Starting with an exploration of taste and ambience, the initial choice centred around selecting natural stone for the kitchen. During a visit to the supplier, the team ascertained the material’s suitability in terms of both budget and elegance, therefore setting the tone for the remainder of the home’s design.
Wanting to open up the interior and expand sightlines both within and beyond the building, the approach prioritises lightness and seamless integration. Structural beams and columns, once exposed, are now discreetly concealed to streamline the dwelling’s foundation, directing attention to the crafted interior pieces. Despite the challenge of low ceilings, it was essential to clean up the previously busy detailing, creating a cohesive atmosphere. A warm and inviting palette dominated by warm whites and earthy tones defines the home’s ambience. Natural materials like oak and marble are then complemented by organic finishes and contrasting features, allowing old and new pieces to sit in harmony.
Considering the future, Claire says, “we love thinking about the longevity of the materials and design details that we put into a home.” It’s this perspective that sees Hicks Street emerge as both a functional and charming abode.
Interior design by Claire Hung Design. Build by Gild Renovation.
