A magnificent five-story brownstone at 205 Clinton Street in Brooklyn's prestigious Cobble Hill neighborhood has hit the market for $22 million, representing the area's most expensive listing. Built in the 1850s, this 25-foot-wide townhouse seamlessly blends with its historic neighbors while offering completely modernized interiors that set it apart from comparable properties in the elegant district.
The property underwent an extensive two-year renovation led by award-winning architect Mike Ingui, who completely rebuilt the interior while carefully preserving the historic exterior frame. The transformation includes everything from a basement wine cellar and fitness facility to four levels of outdoor space, culminating in a rooftop clubhouse and deck. An elevator provides access to all floors, complemented by hand-carved staircases and mezzanines throughout the building.
The brownstone's design maximizes space with soaring ceilings reaching up to 14 feet, ensuring abundant natural light in every corner. Historical elements have been meticulously preserved and showcased, including original fireplace mantels, repurposed stained glass windows, and a massive pier mirror. These classic features are enhanced by premium modern finishes such as hand-sanded wide-plank white oak flooring, triple-pane windows, custom millwork, and marble surfaces, all anchored by a dramatic central hand-carved staircase.
Smart home technology is integrated throughout the residence, featuring a 12-zone HVAC system, Lutron lighting controls, six-zone integrated audio, security cameras, and high-speed internet connectivity. The property also includes full-service concierge parking, adding to its luxury amenities.
The main parlor floor opens into a vast living space featuring a marble gas fireplace and a custom walnut and marble bar equipped with a Sub-Zero wine cooler and ice maker. Beyond a striking 30-foot-tall triple-height center atrium, the kitchen showcases bespoke walnut millwork and professional-grade appliances, including a stainless steel AGA Elise induction range, two Miele dishwashers, and Sub-Zero refrigerator-freezer columns and drawers. A built-in banquette provides casual dining space, while a marble-topped dining and prep island expands the workspace with a concealed charging station and coffee bar.
Massive glass doors behind the kitchen lead to a private patio and garden designed for outdoor entertaining. This space features an ipe pergola and an outdoor kitchen with a built-in gas grill, creating an ideal setting for al fresco dining and gatherings.
The garden level houses a salon and intimate home office served by a powder room. The basement level contains a great room with 13-foot ceilings, perfect for entertaining with its wet bar and temperature-controlled 500-bottle wine cellar. This level also includes a home gym and bathroom with steam shower capabilities.
The primary suite occupies the entire third floor, offering luxury amenities including a windowed walk-in closet and spa-like bathroom with soaking tub, benched shower, and heated floors. The suite opens onto a private terrace overlooking the garden below, while an adjacent den features a clean-fuel fireplace for additional comfort.
The fourth floor accommodates another suite, two additional bedrooms, and an extra bathroom. A full laundry room on this level includes two sets of large-capacity washer-dryers to handle the household's needs efficiently.
The crown jewel of this urban estate is the top-floor clubhouse beneath a 15-foot skylight, featuring a kitchenette and comfortable living spaces. Massive sliding doors open onto an extraordinary terrace equipped with its own kitchenette, fireplace, and grill, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the East River, city skyline, and spectacular sunsets.
If the property sells at its asking price, it would become Brooklyn's third most expensive residential sale. The current record holders are 8 Montague Terrace, which sold for $25.5 million in 2021, and 1 Sidney Place, which fetched $22.1 million in 2024. The listing is handled by Lindsay Barton Barrett, Taylor Schultz, and Christopher Mohr at Douglas Elliman, positioning this architectural masterpiece as a landmark transaction in Brooklyn's luxury real estate market.
