From Blank Canvas to Brooklyn Dream: A Home's Transformation with Plywood Wainscoting
A Brooklyn residence, once devoid of distinctiveness, has been thoroughly reimagined into a lively and inviting haven, thanks to the vision of designer Alan Eckstein from Somerset House. Initially seeking mere furniture, the homeowners found themselves embarking on a complete interior design journey that culminated in a personalized space brimming with warmth and character.
The Journey to Personalized Interiors: From Blank Walls to Plywood Paneling
When a Brooklyn couple approached Somerset House, a Queens-based collectible design gallery, they were simply looking for furniture. However, their encounter with Alan Eckstein, cofounder of the gallery, led them down an unexpected path towards a full home transformation. Eckstein, whose expertise extended beyond sourcing to comprehensive home design, quickly forged a connection with the couple. Their spacious 3,600-square-foot home, despite its high ceilings and open layout, suffered from a lack of personality after a recent renovation. Rejecting the prevalent minimalist aesthetic, Eckstein proposed a bold solution: extensive use of oak plywood wainscoting and cladding, drawing inspiration from Jean-Michel Frank's 1920s interiors. This decision, though initially met with some apprehension due to the sheer volume of wood, proved to be the cornerstone of the home's newfound identity, a testament to the trust the couple placed in Eckstein's unique vision.
The implementation of the plywood wainscoting was a meticulous process, spanning approximately six months. Despite plywood being a common material, achieving the desired warmth and character involved overcoming challenges like inconsistent staining, which resulted in hues that were initially too red, yellow, or golden. With the collaborative effort of Studio BAD, the wainscoting, finished with elegantly rounded bullnose trim, became the defining element that imbued the house with its much-needed personality. Beyond the structural changes, Eckstein curated a selection of predominantly vintage furnishings, with about 80% of the pieces sourced from Somerset House’s own collection. This thoughtful blend of custom design and carefully chosen vintage items, including a 1950s Ico Parisi dining table and Poul Henningsen’s copper PH3 pendants, created a home that feels lived-in and deeply personal, where every object contributes to a larger narrative of comfort and style.
Infusing Vibrancy Through Color and Curated Details
Beyond the fundamental structural changes, Eckstein skillfully integrated bold color schemes and unique details to elevate the home's overall ambiance. The living room, a central gathering space, radiates warmth, anchored by a custom credenza featuring vinyl pockets that extend across an entire wall. This area, while housing valuable vintage designs like French oak armchairs by Guillerme et Chambron, maintains an approachable feel. Eckstein emphasized that the space was designed to withstand daily life, ensuring that nothing felt too delicate or untouchable. The seamless flow into the dining area further showcases Somerset House’s distinctive touch, with historical lighting fixtures complementing the midcentury table, creating an environment that encourages connection and interaction among family and guests.
The exploration of color continued into other private spaces, particularly the dressing room, which the wife envisioned as a monochromatic fantasy. After experimenting with various shades of pink and green, they settled on the tranquil Benjamin Moore’s Bluebelle, complemented by a luxurious carpet and a 1930s Murano glass ceiling light. This serene blue sanctuary became a cherished retreat, described by the wife as a “very happy space.” Similarly, a guest room, which also functions as an office, was transformed into a vibrant "hilarious red room." This deliberate use of color, along with distinctive elements like a 1970s red marble plinth and a 2nd-century Roman bust, ensures that each area of the Brooklyn home possesses its own unique character and charm. The homeowners and their guests consistently praise the residence for its elevated yet unpretentious atmosphere, a testament to Eckstein's ability to blend sophisticated design with practical, livable comfort.