“I’ve lived in NYC for 25 years now in 12 different apartments in just as many neighborhoods, and I’ve never felt more at home than I do in Brooklyn Heights,” Saft shares. 

While Brooklyn Heights is a stunning, family-friendly neighborhood (perfect for Saft; his 6-year-old daughter, Liora; and Boston Terrier, Stanley), it’s likely his real estate gem of a find that makes this place feel so special. 

In 2022, Saft toured an open 475-square-foot studio apartment a couple of blocks from where he lived. He was already familiar with the building and described it as “like something out of a movie with its quiet lush street position.”

And when Saft stepped into the property, things got even better. Original details, which he claims are “rarely ever seen,” were prominently displayed in the entry. Instead of taking the elevator, he wanted to appreciate the features and climbed the staircase. “By the time I reached the floor, I had already emotionally committed to buying the apartment before I’d set foot inside,” Saft writes. 

However, when Saft opened the door to his future apartment, he admitted it was “a wreck.” What he thought was staining on the original hardwood floors turned out to be a thick layer of dust. But he was able to see through the drawbacks. 

“I specialize in working on homes like this, so all these things were a pro in my notes, as it would allow me to start from scratch and retain all the original details,” Saft explains. 

Since moving in, he’s restored the home to its original prestige without fully renovating it. One of his proudest design accomplishments was updating the kitchen by placing new flooring, adding removable wallpaper, and painting the cabinets. He describes the new space as “sexy grandma.” 

• Farrow & Ball’s “Skimming Stone”
• Farrow & Ball’s “Strong White”
• Kitchen — Benjamin Moore’s “Kendall Charcoal”

• Marconi Sofa — CB2
• Gropius Chair — 1stDibs
• Rug — Lulu and Georgia
• Artwork — Vintage and Josh Young

• Babylon Dining Table — CB2

• Removable Wallpaper — Roommates Decor

• Diana Camel — CB2
• Linens — Muji 
• Jax Marble Side Table — CB2

• All vintage art and accessories 

Thanks, Jason and Liora!

This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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