Arch House in Brooklyn, New York, US | Barker Associates Architecture Office

Barker Associates Architecture Office designed a triplex in Brooklyn for a young couple who travel extensively for business and wanted the feeling of a quiet sanctuary for their new home. 

-text by the authors

They partnered with BDDW to provide furnishings throughout the house. The existing building is a relatively compact Anglo-Italianate townhouse circa 1860, and a three-story extension was added to expand the living space. 

The house’s signature arched doorway and front window were the inspiration for much of the detailing for the renovated spaces.

Arched openings connect the dining space to the foyer as well as to the kitchen through a butler’s pantry. The generous kitchen spans the entire width of the house and is designed for socializing while cooking, with a large central marble island and extensive countertop space. The ceilings were raised on the parlor floor to visually and spatially open out the space toward the rear yard, which is framed by a full wall of steel doors and accessed from a rear deck. The centerpiece of the living room is a plaster fluted fireplace surround. 

The existing wood stair and handrail were restored and the skylight above was replaced in the shape of an oval to match the geometry of the stairwell.

The master suite occupies the second floor. A library and office with original moldings and fireplace overlook the street. The bedroom, a plaster, and marble master bath are sequestered through more arched openings via a raised passageway toward the rear. The bedroom opens onto a balcony through more steel doors. The third floor is configured as a level for children, guests, and caregivers.

About BAAO Architects

BAAO Architects is an award-winning multidisciplinary practice based in New York with a focus on exploring spatial and material practices that adapt to the evolving relationships between inhabitants and the built environment.

BAAO has worked in the public and private sector on a range of projects that include ground-up private residences, interiors, and institutional and retail projects in the New York area, regionally, and internationally. The firm has engaged with a range of private and corporate clients including The Hudson Companies and Trinity Real Estate as well as developers for residential units in Inner Mongolia, China.

Facts & Credits
Project title  Arch House
Location  Brooklyn, New York, US
Architecture  Barker Associates Architecture Office
Principal architect  Alexandra Barker, FAIA
Interior decorator  Jae Joo Designs
Contractor  Altek Construction
Structural engineer  Zaki Albanna
Photography  Francis Dzikowski/OTTO