43 8th Ave

Grand beyond compare, this extraordinary 23-foot-wide brownstone dazzles with impeccably restored architectural detail and of-the-moment style, just inches from Grand Army Plaza and Prospect Park.<br> <br> <p>At every turn, this home dazzles with modernized living spaces that meld seamlessly with historic millwork. Ornate paneling and fireplaces surrounds are given a new life with gleaming lacquer finishes and beautiful stone ? marble and onyx ? while traditional layouts are repurposed for contemporary lifestyles. Tasteful modern details and wallcoverings bridge the gap between old and new.<br> <br> </p> <p>Arrival at 43 8th Avenue is dramatic but welcoming up to stately stoop. From the gracious entry vestibule, pocket doors reveal a sun-filled parlor sitting room and formal dining room with glorious bay windows, and a breathtaking crystal chandelier. Another set of pocket doors opens to the dramatic living room where 12.5-foot ceilings are accentuated by crown moldings and extra-tall doorways. The working fireplace is trimmed in chic marble, and on the opposite wall, an original china cabinet is flanked by closets smartly repurposed as a powder room and refrigerator nook. Walls of windows invite you into the extraordinary solarium where deep gray paint and a soaring globe fixture contrast beautifully with leafy outdoor views and leaded glass windows. The adjacent marble kitchen attends to culinary needs with custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances while doors that open to the solarium and deck provide a wonderful indoor/outdoor ambiance. Below, the spacious fenced yard makes outdoor lounging and entertaining irresistible with its covered and uncovered patios, gas fire pit, built-in seating and lush landscaping.<br> <br> </p> <p>An enviable owner's suite commands the entire second floor, where a lavish bedchamber and sitting room with working fireplaces flank a classic dressing area with custom closets and working basins. Another solarium here is used as a home gym, and the owner's bathroom features a vintage pedestal sink and soaking tub. On the top floor, two bedrooms boast decorative fireplaces and a shared dressing area with original basin. Off the hall, a third small bedroom, laundry closet and two bathrooms add exceptional convenience for busy households. <br> <br> </p> <p>The equally impressive garden-level apartment is perfect as an income-generating unit, gracious home office, or massive guest suite featuring a sun-splashed living room with a fireplace, dining room, kitchen and large bedroom with en suite bath. Smartly planned, the upper triplex has direct access to the cellar, hallway storage and more without interrupting the garden unit.<br> <br> </p> <p>Located within the Park Slope Historic District, 43 8th Avenue is a stunning Neo-Grec brownstone built in 1886. Its grand high-stoop entry with intact portico and the bold three-sided bay windows creates a memorable impression in a block filled with handsome historic homes. Once known as Sportsman's Row for the number of jockeys and horsemen that lived close to the nearby Montauk Club, this illustrious location delivers unbeatable access to Prospect Park and Grand Army Plaza. The Brooklyn Public Library, Museum and the Botanic Garden are just minutes away, and foodies will love the proximity to the Park Slope Food Coop and Fifth Avenue's restaurant row. Access to transportation is superb with 2/3, B and Q trains, excellent bus service and CitiBike stations all nearby.</p>