Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens have some of the oldest brownstones in the city, with tall parlor floors, marble mantels and plaster cornices. Their parlors make natural libraries.
01Either side of the fireplace
The alcoves beside the chimney breast are ideal for bookcases with cabinets below. See bookcases around a fireplace.
02Respect the details
Original cornices and window casings should stay intact. Built-ins stop under the cornice and continue the baseboard.
03Landmark districts
Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill are historic districts. Interior built-ins usually don't need landmark approval, but work that touches windows or exterior walls does.
04Lighting
Picture lights suit traditional parlors; see the bookcase lighting guide.
05Uneven walls
Old brownstone walls are never straight, so bookcases are scribed on site.
See Brooklyn bookcases, plan in the Library Worx designer, or book a free design visit.