NYC Brick Townhouse

This comprehensive renovation of a small two-story brick townhouse in Long Island City, near the Queens waterfront, transformed both its façade and outdoor spaces to create a modern, welcoming retreat. The existing structure had limited curb appeal and lacked functional landscaping in the front and rear yards. By introducing a cohesive set of architectural details and thoughtfully planned green spaces, we maximized usability while enhancing the property’s overall aesthetics.

Our approach centered on targeted, sustainable design strategies that allowed the homeowners—an active couple in their early sixties—to remain in the house throughout construction. In the front yard, we replaced patchy grass and a dated walkway with handcrafted rectangular concrete pavers, arranged to accommodate an L-shaped planting strip. A custom low metal railing encloses the yard for added privacy.

On the second floor, we introduced a new parapet and matching railings, enlarged the windows to let in more natural light, and converted one window into a door that leads onto a new balcony built above the entry volume. We also replaced the original window surrounds with decorative brick trim. Finally, we repointed the brick and applied a mineral-based gray paint to unify old and new masonry, then enhanced the façade’s appeal with black divided-light windows and a bold teal entry door. A custom bench, seamlessly integrated into the front landscape, provides a practical spot to receive deliveries.

At the rear, we rebuilt the stoops, planter walls, and fencing with the same attention to material consistency and low-maintenance design. Metal posts and fiber cement slats replaced the dilapidated wood fence, allowing more natural light to filter in. Power-washed pavers reclaimed their original appeal, while metal planters and lush greenery introduced color and texture. Dividing the space into dining and seating areas encourages outdoor relaxation and entertainment.

Throughout the project, every intervention—from removing a fake gable roof to upgrading the stoops—was designed to create inviting outdoor living spaces and transform the once-unremarkable townhouse into a distinctive home. The before-and-after images of this Long Island City townhouse reveal how light, narrow, yet highly focused renovations can radically improve both appearance and functionality, reinforcing our belief in sustainable, imaginative solutions for urban living.