Shelf Spaces: Blending Storage, Display, and Utility at Dream in Fort Greene

This fall, we wrapped up our project at Dream in Fort Greene, a four-story home located on a landmark street in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Our clients wanted to preserve the charm of their old house while integrating modern and practical features throughout. Thus, this project was all about balance—creating open, bright spaces while honoring the history of the original home. That’s why we opted for Shelfology units throughout the house. Their designs are classic, timeless, and versatile.

While many people associate open shelving with contemporary trends, open shelving actually has a long history, especially in kitchens! Before the 1930s, it was common to see open shelves displaying cooking supplies, sauces, spices, and laundry goods. So, reintroducing open shelves to Dream in Fort Greene was a nod to its rich history! "When it comes to working in historic spaces, you need to consider the home’s past while planning for its future. That’s why we conduct extensive research before selecting fixtures, finishes, and all those small details." – Barry The Primary Suite:

In our clients’ primary bedroom, we encountered an intriguing challenge: how to conceal the large HVAC unit and make it blend seamlessly with the sanctuary-like atmosphere of the space. We found a beautiful cover from a local artisan, The Build With Ethan, but we needed to ensure it matched the wall. That’s when we decided to add three Shelfology Aksel shelves above the HVAC.

The wood grain in these Aksel White Oak shelves enhances the visual appeal, and now the homeowners have a spot to display cherished mementos and photos. We’re really impressed with how well the cover and shelves blend together. What used to be an eyesore is now the focal point everyone wants to admire! The Bathroom Niche: In the third-floor bathroom, we needed to create storage without sacrificing the bathroom’s compact footprint. Thankfully, when we extended the vanity wall to fit the new bathtub, we gained some extra space to work with. It wasn’t enough for a traditional shelving unit but perfect for open shelves! We installed three more white oak shelves from Shelfology to provide room for toiletries and towels. The final result looks completely customized and sits flush with the vanity. Now, new parents Anna and Will can store all of baby Noah’s essentials in an accessible, clutter-free area. “One of the most fascinating aspects of designing Dream in Fort Greene was creating a space that felt cohesive across all four floors. The homeowners wanted variety throughout the different areas of the home—a peaceful bedroom, a grand kitchen, and bold bathrooms—but it needed to feel connected. Having continuous elements like the white oak shelves makes the house feel intentional.” – Jordan The Kitchen:

Bright, sunny, and open, the Dream in Fort Greene kitchen combines English countryside vibes with sleek lines. Throughout this process, we learned a lot about styling in historical kitchens. We were inspired by materials such as brass, natural wood, marble, and clay. Together with the homeowners, we chose longer Aksel shelves, spaced apart by the hood above the stove. This design elongates the space, leaving ample room for essential kitchen items. We enjoyed styling these shelves with some of the homeowners’ favorite everyday objects and special touches like their heirloom cake stand. As designers, we’re always thinking about versatility and longevity. Open shelving can be an accessible, stylish addition to any room. It’s timeless and will serve your home well for years to come. GET THE LOOK: - Copper Sauce Pan - Vintage Metal Flower Vase - Concrete Fruit Bowl - Folkculture Wooden Fruit Bowl - Black Flower Vase - Wicker Storage Basket - Aksel White Oak Shelves Certified Rad: About the Brownstone Boys We’re Jordan and Barry, aka the Brownstone Boys. We’re life and business partners who are passionate about restoring historic homes in Brooklyn, NY. As designers and renovation project managers, we work alongside clients from the purchase of property, through the design and build, until the job is complete and move-in ready. Our work has been featured in HGTV, Architectural Digest, Domino Magazine, Lonny Magazine, New York Magazine, Rue, Good Morning America, and recently on Magnolia Network.

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Shelftastic!

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