D&G Interiors+Design walk us through their process to add a modern twist to the interior design of a classic Hoboken brownstone building

Brian and co-owner Marisa Drogin of D&G Interiors + Design walked us through this Hoboken Brownstone project working from the outside in, looking at the beautiful details of the character-rich building and bringing those touches inside.

There’s a cohesion present that Brian speculates appeals to people whether they’re fully aware of it or not. The molding stayed classic to embrace the history of the building, but there are updates in choices like hardware, lighting and appliances. “We kept all the appliances stainless steel, sometimes we’ll panel them to blend, but we wanted to keep it more modern and we used Thermador which is a great appliance line.”

“We really wanted to stay with the architectural details from the outside of the brownstone while keeping it streamlined.”

Brian says of working with Marisa, “Sometimes we share an aesthetic brain, we’re always driven to the same final goal, but she’s more function than form. I’m the form in the equation, with a design background, so we balance each other out.” The modern/classic balance continues with choices like a chevron mosaic tile in the kitchen backsplash; while the mosaic is a classic technique, the choice of chevron tile and brass hardware modernize the space.

The wide plank flooring is practical, but the choice of reclaimed white oak brings the warmth and feels like part of the building. The wide planks look great in every room. “We wanted a light and airy, but rustic feel.”

The mosaic tile fireplace with black bricks has a contemporary look, but it’s a hearth with a story. Each unit features a unique fireplace, “there was a different mantle in each unit, and we tailored each of them,” the tilework and brick were chosen to complement what was already there.

While Brian and Marisa love working on projects where they get to collaborate and tailor to a specific client, they also have a lot of fun creating an aesthetic for developers, where the homeowner is unknown.

Brian says they try not to get too caught up in trends, there are many other factors to consider, but he has an optimistic view on what we might see in design next speculating that after two decades of greys and Mid-Century Modern, “People are seeking comfort, I think that’s transcending through more classic elements in design, it’s all about making your space warm and inviting for company.”

For more design inspo, follow @dginteriorsanddesign on Instagram and check out their website.