Architect Rafi Elbaz’s One-of-a-Kind Brooklyn Townhouse

185 Macdonough is a four-story, two-family townhouse graciously designed over 3,800 square feet of interiors plus a fully finished cellar. Meticulously restored to highlight the glamour of original nineteenth century details combined with the essential elements of modern luxurious living, this house is one of a kind and an acclaimed architect’s true labor of love; the townhouse was designed by and serves as the home of award-winning architect Rafi Elbaz of SAHONYC.

Enter the parlor level through restored double doors featuring imported inlaid mosaic tile flooring to the dramatic living room with nearly 12-foot-high ceilings. Breathtaking and carefully restored plaster ceiling moldings are on display, a restored pier mirror on entry reflects light and a gorgeous marble fireplace anchors the room. Grand dimensions of 20 by 24 feet invite lavish entertaining and lead to the Astor Cucine, an Italian designer eat-in kitchen. Built with the discerning chef in mind, the kitchen features state of the art appliances from Fisher & Paykel, Bertazzoni Professional Series and Bosch incorporated into sleek reclaimed wood cabinetry and marble waterfall island. Subtly lightened exposed wood door casements lead to the bright sunny deck for al fresco dining and a garden space of 20 by 45 feet, or over 700 square feet of serene privacy. Guests have access to a discreet powder room on this level and ample storage. Wide plank washed oak floors, handcrafted steel casement doors, and dark steel elements contrast with soothing natural tones throughout the home to balance the grand imposing details and bring forth the ultimate townhouse designed to merge the lightness of an industrial loft with the benefits of a Brooklyn brownstone.

Up the new staircase with oiled walnut banister, oversize library shelving comes into view. A full-width master bedroom has three large windows, an ornate marble fireplace with original wrought iron covering and a huge master dressing room custom built by Fimes, Italia. The impeccable en-suite master bathroom is finished with a herringbone tile & glass enclosed rain shower, a soaking tub, and solid wood and deep marble slab vanity. A sitting room on this floor is gracious with large south windows over the front garden, an exposed beam, brick walls, and original marble fireplace. Three additional bedrooms on the upper floor of the home are sun filled with exposed brick, the final two decorative fireplaces, and share a spacious bathroom with skylight. On this level is also a proper laundry room with porcelain utility sink.

Located on a highly regarded tree-lined street in Landmarked Stuyvesant Heights, residents of the area are surrounded by the best Brooklyn amenities. A quiet stroll enlightens to local art galleries, boutique shopping such as Peace & Riot, bakeries, and cafes including Anchor Coffee. Trendy dining options include Saraghina, Eugene & co., Bed-Vyne Cocktail, Peaches, Brooklyn Beso, and the charming LunAtico. The bespoke block is a moment away from the A & C Subway lines and multiple bus routes which bring you to Lower Manhattan in under 15 minutes. Clinton Hill, Crown Heights, and Prospect Heights are within close proximity, as are Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.

Masterfully executed and rebuilt from the cellar up, this beautifully wrought and classic home offers a well-balanced layout set up for comfortable living and entertaining. The complete renovation included new energy efficient and Landmark-approved custom wooden windows, a new roof, and beautifully restored brownstone facade and entry stoop as well as brand new mechanicals; four dedicated high efficiency HVAC systems for heating and cooling with Nest control; two new water boilers; new plumbing and electricity throughout with smart touch Lutron dimmers; and an equally well-crafted two bedroom in-law suite or high income rental apartment below.