BROOKLYN TOWNHOUSE | MURDOCK SOLON ARCHITECTS

MSA's renovation opened this single-family townhouse to the outdoors, light and views. With a narrow building footprint, MSA's design focused on creating large, comfortable, open spaces, by minimizing internal walls and divisions. Living areas and the kitchen are separated naturally by furniture and cabinetry, so that light and air moves uninhibitedly from the backyard to the street. Finishes of light colors and warm woods further lighten and brighten the space, along with a bedroom skylight. New built-in cabinetry in bedrooms and living areas further maximizes openness, keeping the floor and walls clear, in strong contrast to the previously dark and crowded rooms.

MSA's redesign of the outdoor areas also maximizes living area, creating a variety of outdoor living rooms. A new deck off the first floor kitchen steps down to the reconstructed backyard, which was excavated to create a level walk-out garden from the lower level. New paving pattern, plantings, and a bbq grill storage area create a relaxing space clad with a palette of stone, wood, copper, steel, and greenery. At the street, new fencing and railing open the residence to the neighborhood.