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For Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, the designers and serial renovators best known as the Brownstone Boys, restoring an old home isn’t just about uncovering historic details, be it through their famous paint-removal method or peeling back layers of wallpaper. Often, it means adding things that look like they could have been original. “Most historic homes have been stripped of their character over decades, sometimes centuries,” says Slocum. Replacing those missing details is a big part of their work in revamping Brooklyn brownstones—including their own Bed-Stuy home.
Some of the most common features they add back into a space? Fireplace mantles, ceiling medallions, crown molding, baseboards, and window and door casings. In stair halls, fresh newel posts, handrails, and balusters can make a huge difference. “Even subtle things like plinth blocks or rosettes can completely change how authentic a space feels. These details don’t scream for attention, but when they’re missing, you feel it,” shares Bordelon.
While the pair’s preference is to buy reclaimed elements from architectural salvage yards, antique dealers, or even other brownstone owners when possible, sometimes they have to resort to sourcing those elements off the shelf—or even on the Internet (“especially for molding and trim, when you need consistency or large quantities,” Slocum points out). The key, according to the pros, is knowing when a piece can quietly support the story without feeling forced, fake, or overly ornate. Ahead, the duo reveal exactly what they look for when buying architectural accents online, because sometimes you’re so desperate for character, you need it to be delivered the very next day.
Where to Shop
Even when shopping online, we’re always thinking about proportion, material, and how the piece will age over time. [We like] Etsy for one-of-a-kind or small-batch pieces and The Home Depot (or similar suppliers) for straightforward trim profiles. We also love to shop local! Adriatic Wood Products and Brooklyn Stained Glass Store are two we often go to. Smaller architectural salvage shops with online inventories often have some of our favorite finds, especially when they specialize in 19th-century details.
What to Look For
Here are the types of pieces we consistently gravitate toward, and how we use them:
Plaster Ceiling Medallions
We love using these to re-center a room visually, especially when paired with a vintage or sculptural light fixture. Painted to match the ceiling, they instantly elevate the space without feeling flashy.
Reclaimed Wood Mantel Surrounds
Etsy has great ones! These are incredible for grounding a living room or parlor. We often leave the patina intact or lightly restore it so it feels authentic but not fragile.
Decorative Corbels (Wood or Plaster)
These are perfect for adding weight and architectural interest under shelves, built-ins, or kitchen hoods. Even a simple corbel can make something feel custom and intentional.
Traditional Crown Molding
When scaled correctly, crown molding can completely change the proportions of a room. We often choose profiles that are slightly simpler than original to keep things feeling modern.
Plinth Blocks for Door Casings
These are small but mighty. Adding plinth blocks at the base of door trim helps restore a period-correct look and makes even new doors feel original to the house.
Antique Newel Posts
If we can find one that works, this is always a yes. It brings instant character to a stair hall and sets the tone for the entire home.
Rosettes or Corner Blocks
Used sparingly, these can add just enough detail to door and window trim—especially in homes where original millwork has been lost.