Cobble Hill is a minimalist brownstone located in Brooklyn, New York, designed by Claire Hung Design. Hung embraced the Japandi style, infusing Japanese-inspired aesthetics into her work. The homeowners, drawn to the serene qualities of wood, particularly oak, expressed a preference for its use in clean, repetitive lines. This vision was shaped by their affinity for Japanese woodwork and its simplicity, a contrast to the wood-centric Swiss chalets they admired in their youth. The design process was challenged by intricate millwork, culminating in a two-year project. Hung’s choice of European oak veneer for the millwork was meticulously planned with a veneer shop, ensuring the distinctive patterns of the wood were highlighted without overpowering the space.

The color palette for the home featured warm whites, complementing the wood tones and creating a welcoming atmosphere. Colorful accents were incorporated at the suggestion of one of the homeowners, who has a design background. This included artworks like Marc Gabor’s ‘Vizcaino Desert Diptych’ from the Tappan Collective in the kitchen and dining area, and photographs inspired by the homeowners’ desert travels in the United States. Materials such as travertine and lime wash were strategically used to enhance the richness of the spaces. Hung’s design philosophy was to create a sense of calm luxury, achieved through the use of unlacquered brass fixtures, custom lighting, and lime wash finishes, all contributing to an atmosphere of clean, organized tranquility.