When I discovered this Brooklyn townhouse, it felt like a bit of magic. It’s a place that really captures the spirit of New York City living, even though the initial plan was quite different.
Finding a New York Home
I know many families think about moving out of the city for more space, but sometimes, the city calls you back in unexpected ways. My family and I had actually been living abroad, trying out a life by the sea. While it was an adventure, we soon realized how much we missed home. It wasn’t long before we started thinking about our return.
During a visit back, I met with a real estate agent, just casually looking at rentals. It was then that a chance came up to see a townhouse that was about to go on the market in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. It had four bedrooms, which was perfect for us. It all happened so fast, and before we knew it, we had an offer accepted. It felt like a wonderful, happy accident.
Decorating with Personal Touches
When you move back to a city like New York, you often have to start fresh with furnishings. We had sold most of our bigger items when we moved abroad. Luckily, the people who sold us the house were willing to leave some furniture behind. We got an IKEA dining table that, while not fancy, is just the right size for our family and for when we have guests. With a nice tablecloth, it looks great.
The sofa we inherited was from Article, and after a good cleaning, it looks fantastic. I love adding soft touches, like the velvet pillows I found. They really make the sofa feel more special and cozy.
A Special Coffee Table
My husband surprised me with a coffee table from Atlas Industries for my birthday. It’s a piece that means a lot because the company’s co-founder helped renovate our other home upstate. We’ve become good friends with him and his wife, who is a photographer.
Art and Personal Collections
The walls in our home are decorated with art that tells a story. The previous owners had put up molding hooks, and now they hold a collection of pieces that I love. I have art from artists I discovered when we were living abroad, as well as work from my own children. I also enjoy leaning frames against walls or placing them on small stools. It’s all about arranging things until the space feels just right.
I don’t really shop for specific items. Sometimes I find unique things right on the streets or on people’s stoops. It’s all part of the adventure of decorating.
Souvenirs from Travels
Whenever we travel as a family, I make it a point to buy something small for our home. It could be something as simple as an ornament. Last summer, my daughter and I found a beautiful handmade candleholder when we were in Spain. It was such a wonderful find and reminds us of that trip.
The Comforts of Home
I have a large collection of perfumes and essential oils. Even the ones I don’t wear often bring back special memories. Some bottles I’ve kept since I was a teenager hold stories and feelings. It’s like a scent memory bank.
Evening Rituals
To wind down in the evening, I like to light candles and use calming scents. I also have a favorite cleanser that smells wonderful. Afterward, I might use a special oil I picked up on a trip to Morocco, or a nice serum. Then, it’s time to relax in bed with a good book or do the New York Times crossword puzzle.
Music and Family Moments
One thing we missed while living abroad was my children’s piano lessons. Now that we’re back, the piano in the living room is mostly for me. I often play slower, more thoughtful songs. I joke that my kids might roll their eyes, but it’s a peaceful way for me to relax.
The turntable, however, is something everyone in the family enjoys. My husband has a great collection of jazz records, and I love putting on reggae albums from when I worked at Trojan Records. It’s a sound that brings us all together.
Working from Home
For my work, the dining table has become my main spot. I often burn incense while I work, like palo santo or a special Persian mix. I also enjoy a homemade tea that I’m still perfecting, which has saffron. It’s a real mood booster.
A Kitchen for Connection
The kitchen in our new home is wonderful. It’s a space that feels perfect for gathering people. My friend and I have talked about using the kitchen to invite friends over to work together and cook, and then give back to the community. My mother always said that if you have idle time, cook, and if you feel without purpose, give. This kitchen feels like the perfect place to do both.
Exploring Brooklyn Neighborhoods
Clinton Hill is a charming part of Brooklyn, known for its beautiful brownstones and tree-lined streets. It offers a quieter feel than some of the more bustling parts of Manhattan, but still provides easy access to everything New York City has to offer. I find it’s a great base for exploring different parts of the city, from art galleries to parks. Families visiting New York might find this neighborhood offers a lovely blend of residential calm and city convenience.
What are some family-friendly activities in Brooklyn
When I think about planning a trip with my children, I always look for places that offer a mix of fun and learning. Brooklyn has some wonderful options. Parks like Prospect Park are fantastic for letting kids run around and explore nature. There are also smaller playgrounds scattered throughout the neighborhoods.
For a bit of culture, the Brooklyn Museum has exhibits that can engage children, and the New York Transit Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s transportation history, which Sofia, my oldest, finds particularly interesting. It’s always a good idea to check operating hours and any special family programming before you go.
Where can we find good places to eat with kids
Finding dining spots that welcome children is key for a relaxed family outing. In neighborhoods like Clinton Hill and nearby areas, you can find a variety of casual eateries. Pizza places are always a hit, and many offer simple, kid-approved menus. I also look for cafes that have a relaxed atmosphere where kids can be kids without too much fuss.
If you’re exploring further out, places with outdoor seating can be very convenient. It gives children a little more space to move around. Many places in New York City are becoming more family-oriented, which makes dining out much easier.
How can we get around Brooklyn
Navigating New York City, including Brooklyn, is usually best done using public transportation. The subway system is extensive and can take you to most parts of the borough and beyond. I find it’s quite an adventure for the kids to ride the subway, and it’s certainly the most efficient way to avoid traffic.
Buses are also a good option for shorter distances or to reach areas not directly served by the subway. For shorter walks within a neighborhood, I always recommend comfortable shoes. Sometimes, just strolling through areas like Clinton Hill is a lovely way to see the architecture and feel the local vibe.
Tips for a Comfortable Stay
When I plan a trip, especially with my family, I focus on comfort and ease. Having a comfortable place to stay is very important after a day of exploring. Brooklyn offers many types of accommodations, from hotels to rental apartments, which can give you more space.
Making sure you have a plan for your days, but also leaving room for spontaneous discoveries, is a good balance. Sometimes the unexpected moments are the most memorable. I always try to pack snacks and water, especially for the kids, to keep everyone happy and energized throughout the day.
I hope this glimpse into finding a home in Brooklyn gives you some helpful ideas as you plan your own New York City adventures.
