Description

A Steven Harris-designed Townhouse in Historic Brooklyn Heights

ARCHITECTURAL PROVENANCE
Fully reimagined in 2010 by award-winning architect Steven Harris, celebrated in Architectural Digest’s AD100, this townhouse reflects his signature blend of historic character and contemporary clarity. Museum-quality floating walls, a custom steel-and-glass staircase illuminated by a skylight, and oversized windows create a loft-like sensibility within a historic brownstone façade, restored from its former navy finish to warm brick and stone in harmony with the landmark streetscape.

DESIGN COLLABORATION
Designed in collaboration with Marti Sagar Interiors, the interiors are restorative, livable, and uplifting. Known for her contemporary yet timeless style, Sagar has created residences across New York, New England, and beyond, with a focus on functional sanctuaries that balance beauty, comfort, and modern lifestyle.

LAYOUT CHARACTER
• Parlor Floor: A dramatic entertaining level with soaring ceilings, a gas fireplace, wide-plank hardwood floors, and an oversized gallery wall ideal for large-scale art. Floor-to-ceiling windows on both east and west exposures frame views of the landscaped garden and the Neo-Gothic St. Charles Borromeo Church, offering both privacy and architectural beauty.
• Garden Floor: A culinary centerpiece with an oversized chef’s kitchen featuring a six-burner Wolf range, side-by-side Sub-Zero refrigeration, dual dishwashers and sinks, expansive stone prep surfaces, and abundant cabinetry. A formal dining room overlooks the garden.
• Third Floor: Currently configured as a library and office, but easily converted into a second primary suite.
• Fourth Floor: A tranquil primary suite with oversized windows, a gas-burning fireplace, and a rare screened sleeping porch enveloped in greenery. The spa-like bath includes a double vanity, soaking tub, and shower illuminated by three east-facing windows.
• Top Floor: Illuminated by a central skylight, this flexible space is ideal for a guest room, media room, fitness studio, or creative retreat. A custom steel-and-glass staircase with floating glass treads rises through the home, channeling light from the skylight and diffused by a fluted glass wall, creating a luminous vertical spine that connects every level.
• Basement: Utility and storage with discreet integration.
• Additional Features: Integrated sound system, gas fireplace, and zoned gas-fired HVAC with individually controlled rooms.

LOCATION & LIFESTYLE
12 Sidney Place stands within the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, New York City’s first landmarked neighborhood, designated in 1965. The district is celebrated for its stately brick and brownstone houses, tree-lined streets, and 19th-century charm, offering a rare blend of architectural heritage and modern urban living. Sidney Place itself is one of the neighborhood’s most coveted blocks, prized for its privacy, gardens, and historic character. Just minutes from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and a major transportation hub, the townhouse offers both serenity and city access.

Listing courtesy of Compass ...
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