Brownstone Kitchen Dreams
Brownstone Design, Maximum Function
Jordan Slocum and Barry Bordelon, better known as the Brownstone Boys, are the powerhouse duo behind Brooklyn restorations. They’re DIY-ers, renovators, and designers who do it all when it comes to revitalizing and preserving historic brownstones. I first discovered them on Instagram, scrolling through their “stop and look” gorgeous homes, and was immediately drawn to their incredible gift: making a space not only beautiful but feel warm and effortless.
When I first met them, I was nervous, I didn’t know what to expect but they were the most personable, easy-to-talk-to, and kindest people. Knowing how hard they work and how busy they are, they always make time for you, and that is what I love most about them. They are beautiful people themselves. To organize for them—not once, not twice, not three times, but multiple times—is an absolute honor, and saying so feels like an understatement.
01
Space Assessment
When organizing a kitchen, we focus on three anchor points: the stove, the fridge, and the sink. In interior design, these areas form the classic “kitchen triangle,” as they are the most frequently used spots and optimizing their layout ensures smooth flow. We follow this methodology by considering the placement of kitchen tools, cups, dish ware, and pantry items based on this layout.
02
Curation
Part of purging is also relocating—removing items that don’t belong in the kitchen and placing them where they make more sense, like lightbulbs or electronics. Thoughtful purging and relocating are the ultimate power boost for maximizing the function of a space.
BEFORE
AFTER
03
Implementation
With their newly renovated kitchen, we wanted our organizing solutions to match the look and feel of the space. Instead of standard wire dish risers, we chose sleek acrylic dish risers. For gathering snacks and dog supplies, we used one of my favorite bins from The Container Store, the Artisan Pine Bin. Its high-quality construction and wood design provide both aesthetic appeal and functional durability. While we focused on ease and efficiency, we were equally careful to preserve the design, ensuring every item had a home without distracting from the beauty of the space.
04
The Result
This kitchen is what dreams are made of. The boys designed the space with thoughtful intention and activity, and we were simply there to fill in the drawers. From grilling tools to coffee beans, this kitchen is truly made for cooking, hosting, and living. With a dedicated home for every item, the space’s beauty can shine, and you can fully immerse yourself in the design.
