The formal living area in this Brooklyn brownstone once had an awful marble fireplace surround that didn't properly reflect the home's provenance. Sheetrock was peeled back to reveal the exposed brick chimney, we sourced a new mantel with dental molding from architectural salvage, and completed the surround with green marble tiles in an offset pattern. The chairs are Mid-Century Modern style and the love seat is custom-made in gray leather. Custom bookshelves and lower storage cabinets were also installed, overseen by antiqued-brass picture lights.

CHRISTOPHER LEE FOTO

Graham Yelton for B-Metro

Sitting room in master bedroom has ceramic tile fireplace. Built-in shelves with window seats flank the fireplace letting in natural light. Rich Sistos Photography

Our 1917 home had plenty of character but a serious lack of storage, especially for books and our ever expanding collection of National Geographic magazines. These built ins are not only practical but also make the room seem much more lived in. Bonus? Guests always comment that they look like they've always been there! Photo by Conan Y. Fugit

Suleiman Merchant

Photo: Sarah Greenman © 2013 Houzz

Séjour, fresque murale

This great room embodies open concept while maintaining distinctive stylish spaces. Photo by Hoachlander Davis Photography Architect Jeff Broadhurst

Naama Porat

Emilio Orantes

© Dana Miller, www.millerhallphoto.com