A Historic Haven
Nestled in the iconic Cobble Hill district of Brooklyn, the Amity Street Apartment stands as a testament to timeless charm and historical significance. Crafted by architects Rawan Muqaddas and Selma Akkari, this design-led project breathes new life into a 4th-floor unit within a stone building dating back to 1910. Situated at the intersection of Amity and Clinton Streets, the apartment overlooks a serene cobblestone street adorned with lush foliage, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling cityscape.
Design Collaboration and Renovation Vision
Architectural designer Selma Akkari joined forces with Rawan Muqaddas in response to a developer’s visionary quest for a comprehensive overhaul of the apartment. The goal was clear: to reimagine the space through a sustainable design lens while preserving its inherent character and allure. Faced with the competitive landscape of New York City’s real estate market, the duo embarked on a journey to cater to the discerning tastes of Cobble Hill buyers, blending smart innovation with refined aesthetics.
Thoughtful Spatial Composition
At the heart of the apartment lies a meticulously curated living space designed to serve as an oasis of tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape. The kitchen, seamlessly integrated into the living area, exudes an airy ambiance accentuated by a long marble shelf, replacing conventional upper cabinets. This focal point, adorned with elegant sconces, showcases the exquisite beauty of honed purple-green veined marble, while discreetly concealing the refrigerator from view. Bedrooms are conceived as sanctuaries of peace, featuring integrated open shelves and luxurious ensuite facilities. An operable skylight floods the second bedroom with natural light, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the 16-window corner apartment.
Harmony in Contrast
A central theme of the design narrative revolves around the juxtaposition of opposites, where minimalism meets warmth and understated elegance blends with richness. This aesthetic dialogue is manifested through thoughtful pairings such as an aluminum-clad kitchen juxtaposed against traditional rounded arches and hand-made ceramic tiles complemented by contemporary lighting fixtures. A cohesive color palette, characterized by gentle oak floors, cream-hued walls, and dark stone accents, unifies the living spaces, creating a harmonious visual tapestry.
Collaborative Staging for Vibrant Ambiance
To elevate the apartment’s ambiance to new heights, Muqaddas and Akkari enlisted the expertise of Somerset House for a collaborative staging endeavor. Drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and eras, including Italian and Danish Modern influences with hints of Baroque and Primitive aesthetics, Somerset House infused the space with warmth, texture, and patina. The result is a modern yet inviting sanctuary, characterized by refined details and an eclectic blend of materials, exuding both design-centric allure and intimate charm.
In essence, the Amity Street Apartment in Brooklyn stands as a testament to the transformative power of design collaboration, breathing new life into a historic space while preserving its timeless charm and character.
