Inside a Clinton Hill Condo Where Chinese Design Meets Modern Minimalism
A 1,260‑square‑foot duplex condo in a mid‑19th‑century brownstone in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill now stands out for its unique fusion of historic architecture and global design influences.
The project, undertaken by interior design studio Bespoke Only and led by designer Melissa Lee, transformed the second and third floors of the building into a refined, modern home for a young couple and their three dogs.
From Developer‑Grade Box to Bespoke Home
Originally converted into condos in the early 2000s, the brownstone offered standard finishes and little architectural richness. Bespoke Only stepped in to reconfigure the space into something much more thoughtful.
On the lower floor of the duplex, they placed a central kitchen flanked by a dining area at the rear and a living room facing the street. Upstairs, two bedrooms and two new bathrooms were added.
Asian Architectural Influence Shapes the Interiors
What truly sets the design apart is its engagement with elements drawn from Chinese architectural traditions. As Lee explains, the design team was inspired by carved wooden room dividers and timber structural frameworks common in historic Chinese interiors.
In one ensuite bathroom, the pairing of jade and maroon surfaces reflects that same sense of rooted elegance.
Design Highlights and Material Choices
The home features a restrained palette that emphasizes natural light and open flow. Minimal millwork lets original architectural details breathe, while bespoke pieces and rich finishes introduce warmth and character.
Bespoke Only preserved the historic brownstone’s shell and integrated modern systems and furnishings without erasing the sense of place.
A Thoughtful Balance Between Past and Present
Rather than cover up the building’s original features, the design celebrates them with clean lines, considered layering, and global influences that feel authentic to the home’s owners. The result is a duplex that respects its 19th‑century roots while delivering a lifestyle suited for today’s urban occupant.
