Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you both to where you are now.

Almost eight years ago we purchased our first home together, a brownstone in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bedford Stuyvesant (just seven months into dating.) We learned SO much – about each other, renovation, and the beauty of historic homes. We started blogging about our experience, mostly because we couldn’t believe the things we were finding – a marble mantle waiting to be uncovered, solid wood under decades of white paint, and what seemed like endless amounts of charm & character. Soon, we had thousands of people reading our blog, inquiring about our processes, and asking us to renovate their homes. Neither of us was a full-time designer to start – Barry was working in software sales & Jordan was managing marketing & design for an ice cream company. But, we quickly realized we could turn this into a career and so we did. We just completed our 28th full gut renovation project. The thing we love most is getting to know the history of each house that we work on and prepare it for the new life we are setting it up for in the next 100 years.

Your work focuses on interior design, renovation consulting, and project management with a focus on historic brownstones and townhouses. How do you balance maintaining the historical charm of these houses while also meeting the needs of contemporary living?

We like to think of our design style as a seamless blend between timeless tradition and modern flair. The most incredible thing about historic homes is how well-made they are, and our goal is always to repair as much damage as we can to original elements, while making sure that they become livable for the next 100 years. We approach each project with both preservation and optimization as top priorities.

Tell us a bit about how you find inspiration. What factors have played roles in the development of your design style, as the Brownstone Boys and as individual designers?

Continued learning is a big one for both of us, both as a team and as individuals. As previously mentioned, neither of us is a traditionally trained designer, so the more time we’ve spent renovating for different projects, the more we’ve learned about the vibe of our brand and signature design style. We’re very fortunate to live in NYC where inspiration can come from taking a walk around any city block. We also are lucky that there’s two of us, so we each take the lead on different things and let each other steer the ship; Barry with the financial side & construction management side of the business and Jordan on the creative side with design & social media.

What’s the best advice you’ve received, either personally or professionally?

The best advice I’ve ever received is to practice patience and truly listen — not just to respond, but to understand. Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or in personal relationships, taking the time to hear what someone is really saying (and sometimes what they’re not saying) can make all the difference.

Patience allows you to see the bigger picture, to approach challenges with clarity, and to build trust. In our work, it’s taught me that the best designs — and the strongest relationships — come from collaboration, empathy, and giving things the time they deserve to unfold naturally.

Brooklyn is celebrated not only for its historic brownstones and pre-war architecture but also for its cultural diversity and creative energy. What role do you think design plays in fostering a sense of community within a neighborhood?

We are firm believers that your home is a reflection of your mind. When you live in a space that feels open, artistic, inspiring, and invigorating, it better allows you to show up in your community in those same ways. We are so proud to serve Brooklyn & the community that has welcomed us here.

Design plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community by creating spaces that reflect and celebrate the people who inhabit them. In Brooklyn, where every block holds layers of history, culture, and personal stories, thoughtful design bridges the past with the present and invites connection. Through our work, we aim to honor the unique backgrounds of our clients and the character of the neighborhood, ensuring each project feels authentic to its surroundings. Restoring original details in a brownstone might evoke memories for long-time residents, while modern touches can inspire a sense of possibility for new families moving in.

More than aesthetics, though, design has the power to create shared experiences — be it a welcoming stoop where neighbors can gather, a kitchen that becomes the heart of a home, or a community space that sparks conversation. Brooklyn’s creative energy thrives because its spaces encourage people to interact, share stories, and feel like they belong. Ultimately, good design isn’t just about the individual home; it’s about contributing to the fabric of the neighborhood and reinforcing what makes Brooklyn such a vibrant and connected place.

What is a design trend or element you’re loving right now? And not so much?

A design element we’re loving right now is the return of dark wood tones. There’s something so timeless and grounding about rich, natural wood grains that tell a story and add warmth to a space. It’s a welcome shift from the ultra-minimal, white-oak-everything era. We’re passionate about wood stripping and restoration because it allows us to celebrate the history and craftsmanship of a home, letting those original details shine.

As for what we’re glad to see less of — white oak everywhere! While it has its place, it became so ubiquitous that it started to feel like a default rather than a deliberate choice. We love seeing more variety and character in materials, which makes each space feel truly unique.

What’s next for the Brownstone Boys? How do you hope to see the impact of your work take form?

We had such a fun time with our collaboration with Blueprint Lighting NYC to create our own bespoke lighting collection. We are looking forward to more collaborations of this nature very soon, and are looking to develop pieces that anyone can use in their designs to bring a little Brownstone Boy and old New York charm to their own homes.

Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?

A new country! Or a walk or hike up in the Catskills.

Favorite space in your home?

Our office speakeasy!

Current go-to interior paint color?

Inchyra Blue by Farrow & Ball

One product that’s always in your bag?

Our Brownstone Boys Signature Measuring Tape.

Currently watching?

Sopranos! This time from the beginning.