Crafting Quiet Luxury: Inside Crosby Studios' New Williamsburg Sanctuary

At the intersection of art, design, and architecture, Crosby Studios has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional aesthetics. The studio’s latest collaboration with The Barak Blackburn Team, 276 Berry Street, is poised to become the most expensive listing in Williamsburg, merging innovation, cultural resonance, and luxury. Compass Luxury sat down with the designer behind this visionary project, Harry Nuriev, to discuss his approach and inspiration.

Your work often challenges conventional boundaries. How is your concept of 'Transformism' expressed in this Williamsburg property?

Williamsburg itself embodies Transformism. Having lived and worked in the neighborhood for years, I’ve witnessed its evolution firsthand. The dramatic shifts in its urban landscape have reshaped how people live and connect, making it feel like a distinct "sixth borough" of New York City. For me, this property is a reflection of that phenomenon—a fusion of past and present, chaos and refinement.

Light plays a pivotal role in many of your projects. How did you use natural light here to create an inviting yet private ambiance?

The building’s corner lot location was a gift in itself, offering unique light and expansive views from every room. Natural light is transformative—it can make even the most minimal spaces feel vibrant yet serene. Here, it creates a duality: openness for connection and privacy for retreat.

Can you guide us through your process for selecting materials and finishes? How do these choices enhance the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the space?

Brooklyn has a distinct design narrative, and I wanted to respect that while adding our signature touch—what I call "Crosbyfy." I drew inspiration from the contextual elements of the neighborhood without being overly literal, blending them with a contemporary layer of style. Using artisanal tile work from Italy’s Mutina & Zia tile. The materials and finishes are tactile, warm, and grounded, balancing the local vernacular with a forward-thinking sensibility.

Design often reflects cultural shifts. How does this property capture the essence of Williamsburg as both an artistic hub and a luxury destination?

276 Berry Street is a striking embodiment of Williamsburg’s unique blend of creativity and exclusivity. The neighborhood’s vibrant artistic culture is reflected in the home’s innovative design, with expansive, light-filled spaces and thoughtful architectural details. The clean lines and modern finishes evoke a sense of understated luxury, while the property’s serene waterfront location offers the perfect balance of privacy and accessibility. Here, creativity meets sophistication, with elements like custom Italian tile work and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow that elevate the living experience, making it a destination that truly embodies the best of both worlds.

How does 276 Berry Street reflect the evolution of your design style since founding Crosby Studios?

Architecture has always been a cornerstone of my creative exploration. This property allowed me to delve deeper into residential design, shaping not just interiors but also the physical body of the building. Buildings inherently contribute to the urban tapestry of a city. When designing a façade, you’re not just creating a structure—you’re influencing the cityscape. This project became an opportunity to make that impact meaningful and enduring.

How does this project either align with or challenge current trends in luxury real estate design?

This project embraces the ethos of quiet luxury—design that speaks with subtlety and intention. The home challenges the notion of opulence by focusing on simplicity, with every detail thoughtfully chosen to create a space that feels both expansive and intimate. Through elements like the custom Reform kitchen and artisanal Italian tile, we’ve redefined luxury as an experience of understated sophistication and emotional resonance. The expansive, open layout and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces reflect a shift toward living with purpose and mindfulness, creating a home that feels timeless, yet perfectly in tune with today’s most discerning tastes.

What design trends do you foresee shaping luxury real estate in the coming years, and what aesthetics do you think affluent buyers will be drawn to?

I see a shift toward designs that prioritize practicality over ornamentation. Affluent buyers are seeking spaces where they can slow down, recalibrate, and find moments of peace. In an overstimulated world, these environments become sanctuaries—places to dream, reflect, and feel truly at home.

Having lectured at prestigious institutions worldwide, what insights from projects like this do you hope to impart to the next generation of architects and designers specializing in luxury real estate?

As a student, I found immense value in hearing firsthand experiences from practicing architects and designers. Real-world insights can offer clarity and inspiration that textbooks often lack. My advice? Embrace every opportunity to learn from those in the field. Projects like this teach that great design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about understanding human behavior and the cultural context of the spaces we create.