What's Happening?
A two-unit townhouse at 19 Conselyea Street in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, has been completely rebuilt and is now listed for $5,200,000. The 3,198-square-foot home, set on a 28-foot-wide lot, features a private driveway, a detached garage/studio with a glass
wall opening to a landscaped garden, and a finished roof deck. The renovation, described as 'back to the studs,' took several years and was undertaken by the owners, Brad Hurtado and Sean Hingston, who have over three decades of experience restoring homes. The property, originally built in 1880, now boasts new plumbing, roofing, climate systems, imported custom triple-pane windows, and modern amenities like heated sidewalk mats and heated entry vestibule floors. The interior showcases a mid-century modern aesthetic with rich wood and stone finishes, including a Valcucine kitchen and a primary suite with custom mahogany and emerald tile work.
Why It's Important?
This extensive renovation and high asking price for a Williamsburg townhouse highlight the continued demand for luxury residential properties in desirable Brooklyn neighborhoods. The meticulous, owner-driven rebuild, rather than a developer-led project, suggests a focus on quality and unique design elements that cater to a high-end market segment. Features like a private driveway, detached glass-walled garage/studio, and heated sidewalks are rare in the area, contributing to the property's exclusivity and value. This sale reflects broader trends in urban real estate, where significant investment is being made to modernize historic structures with premium materials and smart home technologies, appealing to buyers seeking both character and contemporary comfort. The project also demonstrates the potential for substantial appreciation in properties within established, sought-after urban communities.
Beyond the Headlines
The 'back to the studs' renovation of 19 Conselyea Street represents more than just a real estate transaction; it embodies a trend of hyper-customization and luxury in urban living. The owners' decision to document their renovation journey on YouTube and Instagram (@back.to.the.studs) also reflects the growing intersection of real estate, design, and social media, where homeowners share their projects and inspire others. This level of detail and personal investment in a property can set new benchmarks for quality and amenities in a neighborhood, potentially influencing future renovations and property values. Furthermore, the integration of features like heated sidewalks speaks to an increasing desire for convenience and comfort, even in outdoor private spaces, pushing the boundaries of what is considered standard in high-end urban homes. This project showcases how individual homeowners can significantly impact the architectural and lifestyle landscape of a community.
