291 Clinton Ave

A Landmark Home on Clinton Hill's Gold Coast where Historic Elegance Meets Modern Grandeur

Welcome to one of Clinton Hill's most distinguished residences, a historic 1894 Romanesque Revival townhouse, masterfully reimagined for modern living. This masterful 5,000 square foot quadruplex over two-bedroom garden apartment blends rich historic character with refined, contemporary luxury.

Originally designed by renowned architect George M. Walgrove, this stately home sits on the Gold Coast of Brooklyn, among a rare row of architecturally rich brownstones that blend the boldness of Romanesque Revival with the elegance of Renaissance detailing. Clad in rough-cut brownstone, brick, and period ornamentation, this four-story townhouse has been taken down to its brick and beam core and rebuilt with meticulous care. The result is a seamless blend of timeless heritage and refined luxury.

A Meticulous Restoration
The residence underwent a full gut renovation including brand-new electrical, plumbing, mechanicals, sprinklers, windows, and rebricked chimneys ensuring long-term durability, while modern upgrades like central heating and air conditioning provide year-round comfort. Inside, historic charm is preserved at every turn with rift sawn white oak floors, elegant millwork, restored original mantels encompassing two wood-burning fireplaces, and a stunning chandelier straight from the Plaza Hotel grace the interiors. The original grand staircase has been restored with new treads, risers, and stringers, preserving the home's architectural soul.

The Parlor Floor - Grand Living, Entertaining, and Culinary Excellence
Step through a custom tiled vestibule with built-in storage into the main living floor, where 10-foot ceilings and herringbone floors with ebony inlay set the tone for gracious city living. The parlor is divided into a formal dining and seating area, a central kitchen and expansive sitting room framed by original ornamentation, an elegant wood-burning fireplace, and an historic stained glass window. Natural light pours through oversized windows, illuminating both the classic and contemporary finishes throughout. The show-stopping chef's kitchen offers a blend of old-world materials and modern craftsmanship. Custom cabinetry throughout with reclaimed wood used from the Domino Sugar Factory, while statuary marble countertops and a massive center island that seats six make this the heart of the home. The kitchen is outfitted with a Wolf 6-burner range with griddle and dual oven, 48" Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, Bosch dishwasher, built-in microwave and wine refrigerator. A hidden walk-in pantry with electrical enhances both form and function. Just beyond the kitchen, a gorgeous sitting area or lounge with wood-burning fireplace and office space opens onto a custom steel terrace that leads down to the professionally landscaped Ipe-fenced rear garden-a private, tranquil escape in the heart of the city. A jewel-box powder room clad in Eskayel wallpaper, with a custom wood-framed mirror and pedestal sink, completes the floor.

Second Floor - Library, Lounge & Guest Quarters
Up the grand staircase on the second floor is a haven perfect for relaxation and introspection. A spacious media room doubles as a lounge and is outfitted with a custom HenryBuilt credenza and shelving, opening onto a large, private terrace perfect for morning coffee or evening cocktails. At the front of the floor, a sunlit bedroom suite features a dramatic curved bay window, capturing golden western light, and a luxurious en suite bath with a walk-in shower. The room also boast two extra-wide closets for storage.

Third Floor - Elegant and Functional Family Living
Three well-proportioned bedrooms and two full bathrooms comprise the third level. Another grand, west-facing bedroom mirrors the one below and includes its own en suite bath with shower. Two additional bedrooms are located toward the rear of the home and share a beautifully appointed bathroom featuring a double vanity with marble countertops, a deep soaking tub, and a private water closet-perfectly designed for both privacy and convenience. Also located is a large closet with oversized washer/dryer and plenty of space for lined storage.

Top Floor - Primary Suite Sanctuary
Occupying the entire top floor, the primary suite offers a peaceful, sun-drenched sanctuary. The oversized bedroom is surrounded by treetop views through three generous windows. A walk-in closet outfitted with California Closets greets you upon entry to the spa-like bath with large skylight allowing an abundance of natural light. Here, Venetian plaster walls, a cast-iron freestanding soaking tub, large glass-enclosed shower, Restoration Hardware wood double vanity, and Newport Brass fixtures create a luxurious experience. A second, expansive walk-in closet & dressing room is tucked behind the bath and also features custom closet systems and abundant natural light. To top it off there is bonus windowed room on this floor used as a home gym or can become a private study.

Garden Level - High-Income Producing Two-Bedroom Apartment
The separately accessed garden apartment offers outstanding rental income potential or an ideal setup for multi-generational living. With central air, white oak flooring, and high-end finishes throughout, this spacious unit includes two large bedrooms and two full baths, both outfitted with Restoration Hardware fixtures and generous closet space. One of the bedrooms features a luxurious en suite bath with additional storage.

This historic townhouse is more than just a home-it is a living piece of Brooklyn's architectural heritage, modernized with precision, style, and respect for its origins. Nestled on a tree-lined block in one of Clinton Hill's most treasured historic districts, you'll find yourself just moments from Fort Greene Park, Pratt Institute, and the best of local dining at Sailor, Roman's, Saraghina, Evalina and more along with shopping and a rich artistic culture.