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Jan 2025

Written by Alyssa Longobucco. Photography by Kirsten Francis


When Jennifer Hunter first stepped into her client's brownstone in Brooklyn in 2022, she knew it wouldn’t be a quick or easy transformation—and that was exactly the point. The 21-foot-wide, 5,000-square-foot home, originally built in 1899, was rich with original architectural details that begged for a discerning touch; moments meant to be preserved, celebrated, and thoughtfully reimagined, not ripped out under the guise of a fast flip.
From the start, Hunter's vision wasn’t to modernize the home into something unrecognizable. Instead, she strived to create a layered, traditionally inspired interior that honored its historic bones while supporting the rhythms of modern life for the young family of six. What followed was a gut renovation, complete with a six-foot rear addition to expand the kitchen—an undertaking that required navigating city approvals, neighborhood hearings, and no shortage of surprises hidden behind century-old walls.

Cabinet hardware: Washington Bail Pull, Washington 1.25" Knob, Clementine Bar Pull, Clementine Appliance Bar Pull
Cabinet paint: Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore. Countertop: European Granite and Marble. Stools: Serena and Lily. Pendant lights: Visual Comfort.

“Nothing came easily,” Hunter says, “but that’s what made it so rewarding.” Each phase of the project revealed new challenges, from updating electrical and plumbing systems to making thoughtful decisions about which elements to save and how to integrate modern necessities without compromising the home’s old soul.
Throughout the home, color and pattern—a hallmark of Hunter's style—set the tone. The interiors are richly layered with custom murals, wallpapers, tailored upholstery, and curated antiques, all grounded by the home’s ornate moldings, original doors, and timeworn hardware. Each room is vibrant yet refined, balancing polish and a reverence for history with family-friendly approachability. It's a home meant to be lived in, not tiptoed through.
In the end, what set this historic residence apart for Hunter wasn't just its inherent beauty—it was the meaningful collaboration that brought it back to life. "This home was truly a labor of love and a close partnership with the client," she adds. "It was a monumental undertaking as nothing came easily, and surprises awaited around every corner, but the client’s patience and generosity never wavered. In the end, the result was well worth the wait: a house that is not only beautiful and artful, but also inviting, comfortable, and designed for everyday living."

New cabinetry combines with restored details, like historic moldings and a pier mirror.
The footprint of the kitchen got larger thanks to a 6-foot bump-out, granting the space better flow and the opportunity for a breakfast nook. "What was once dark and disconnected is now flooded with light and truly serves as the heart of the home," says Hunter. "With the space opened up and brightened up, all of the special details were able to shine."

Jennifer Hunter is the founder and principal designer of Jennifer Hunter Design, a New York City-based interior design firm known for its refined yet approachable aesthetic. Jennifer describes her style as traditional with a fresh perspective, where timeless elements are thoughtfully reimagined for today's living.
Her work is deeply personal and collaborative, ensuring that every space feels like a true reflection of her clients. With a focus on sophistication, comfort, and livability, Jennifer creates interiors that are tailored to each client’s lifestyle and unique personality.




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