This 1500-square-foot townhouse in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, originally had a cramped galley kitchen that felt disconnected from the main living space. AlexAllen designed a 330-square-foot light-filled kitchen and dining addition. This compact structure transforms the ground floor both visually and functionally. Skylights and 8-foot east-facing casement windows flood the home with natural light, while creating a strong connection to the exterior.
Brooklyn
330 SF
2023
The exterior of the structure is clad with cedar and treated with pine tar, a natural resin that safeguards against rot and deterioration. A cedar screen offers privacy, while the cascading concrete terrace serves as both a sitting area and a pathway to the garden.
In a departure from the more common large glass openings often found in Brooklyn townhouse renovations, the clients opted for three punched casement windows that add a sense of verticality and create a pleasing rhythm.
The kitchen material palette is muted and calm. White oak cabinetry from Reform is paired with off-white zellige tiles and a Quartzite countertop. Radiant heating keeps the floor tiles warm during the colder months.
In addition to the three punched casement windows, a skylight scoop brings in natural light over the dining space. The curve softens the light and creates the impression of a larger opening without the need to incorporate costly oversized skylights.
A bold burgundy wall serves as a striking backdrop for the dining table, which was designed by the owner.