Robert’s Clocks: Restoring Timeless Beauty in an NYC Brownstone

When I first stepped into Robert’s restored NYC brownstone, I knew this project was going to be something special. Robert, an artist himself, truly understands the importance of craftsmanship, details, and color. His appreciation for design, coupled with his love for original architectural elements, made working with him on this project an absolute pleasure. We had worked together before, so there was already a familiarity that allowed us to flow seamlessly from vision to execution.

Now, let’s talk about NYC brownstones for a second—heart palpitations, right? The charm, the history, the intricate details that these historic homes offer make them so special. Robert’s brownstone was no exception, originally built in 1878 and still maintaining its original floors, moldings, and stunning pocket doors. Each floor in the home had its own personality, blending modern touches with the classic beauty of the brownstone’s architecture.

For this particular project, we were focused on the top floor, with its custom-made HEX blue paint and gold accents. The goal was to bring together new, modern aesthetics while allowing the timeless aspects of the home to shine through. Restoring the original hardwood floors was a priority, and for good reason. There’s just something about clean, restored hardwood floors that is unbeatable. The warmth and sophistication they bring to a space can’t be replicated.

The main feature of this floor, however, was the clocks. Originally, the clocks were intended to sit on either side of the fireplace, but as with many design projects, the room had other ideas. The moment Robert and I placed them near a massive window overlooking the backyard, framed by the city skyline in the distance, we knew we had found their perfect home. Natural light from the skylights flooded the room, bouncing off the restored light-colored floors, and the reflections in the brass details on the clocks became even more pronounced. The synergy between the space and the pieces was undeniable—this was where they belonged.

One of the standout clocks was a Howard Miller, a piece with a rich two-toned metal face that needed delicate restoration. Howard Miller clocks, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, are built to last and can be passed down for generations. These timeless pieces can range from $50 to $50,000 depending on the model, and preserving its integrity was essential. One wrong move, and the clock’s value could be lost, so the restoration required precision and care.

In the end, the combination of modern elements, restored architectural beauty, and timeless pieces like Robert’s clocks gave this brownstone a unique character. Each room, each piece of furniture, and each design element worked in harmony to create a space that felt both luxurious and lived in—a balance that I believe is key in any home.

This project is a testament to the beauty of blending old and new, and how the right pieces can completely transform a room, making it feel timeless, sophisticated, and, most importantly, personal.