Step into the world of refined elegance and timeless charm as we explore the stunning Brooklyn brownstone that acclaimed actress Emily Mortimer calls home. You know her from captivating performances in films like “Match Point” and the beloved series “The Newsroom,” but today, we’re getting an exclusive glimpse into her personal sanctuary in the heart of Boerum Hill.
There’s something utterly magical about celebrity homes, isn’t there? They offer us a window into the private lives of those we admire, revealing their tastes, quirks, and the spaces where they truly unwind. And when it comes to the Emily Mortimer house, we’re talking about a property that perfectly embodies both sophisticated style and warm, lived-in comfort.
Brooklyn has become the epicenter of celebrity real estate, with stars choosing historic brownstones over Manhattan penthouses. Emily’s choice of Boerum Hill speaks volumes about her appreciation for authentic New York charm and community spirit. As you journey through this tour, you’ll discover how this talented actress has transformed a classic brownstone into a contemporary haven that honors its historic roots while embracing modern living.
Overview of Boerum Hill and Brooklyn Brownstones
Let’s start by setting the scene in Boerum Hill, one of Brooklyn’s most coveted neighborhoods. Nestled between bustling Downtown Brooklyn and trendy Park Slope, this area has maintained its village-like atmosphere while becoming increasingly desirable among creative professionals and celebrities alike.
The neighborhood pulses with a unique energy that combines tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. It’s the kind of place where you might bump into your favorite author at the local bookstore or share a sidewalk with an Oscar winner walking their dog. The community here values authenticity over ostentation, making it perfect for someone like Emily Mortimer who prefers understated elegance.
The Brownstone Legacy
Brooklyn brownstones tell the story of New York’s architectural evolution. These iconic structures, built primarily between the 1840s and 1890s, were originally designed for wealthy merchants and professionals. The distinctive brown sandstone facades, quarried from Connecticut and New Jersey, gave these homes their memorable name and character.
What makes these buildings so special? It’s their perfect blend of grandeur and practicality. High ceilings create an airy atmosphere, while original details like ornate moldings and hardwood floors add character that modern construction simply can’t replicate. The Emily Mortimer house exemplifies these qualities beautifully, standing as a testament to Brooklyn’s architectural heritage.
These historic homes typically feature three to four stories, with layouts that flow naturally from formal entertaining spaces to private family quarters. The stoops—those iconic front steps—aren’t just architectural features; they’re social spaces where neighbors gather and children play, embodying the community spirit that makes Brooklyn special.
Exterior Features of Emily Mortimer’s House
The first glimpse of Emily’s brownstone takes your breath away. The facade, meticulously maintained, showcases the warm, chocolate-brown sandstone that gives these homes their distinctive appearance. The building rises four stories, with tall windows that hint at the light-filled spaces within.
The famous Brooklyn stoop leads up to a stunning entryway framed by original carved stonework. These details, preserved from the 1870s when the home was built, demonstrate Emily’s commitment to maintaining the property’s historic integrity. The wrought-iron railings, painted a classic black, provide both safety and visual appeal, their delicate scrollwork adding a touch of Victorian elegance.
Garden Oasis
Beyond the traditional facade lies a surprising secret—a beautifully landscaped front garden that sets this property apart. While many brownstones feature minimal greenery, Emily has created a small urban oasis with carefully selected plantings that provide year-round interest.
Window boxes overflow with seasonal flowers, adding splashes of color against the brown stone. In spring, tulips and daffodils announce the arrival of the season. Summer brings cascading petunias and vibrant geraniums. The attention to these details shows how the actress values creating beauty in every aspect of her home.
The rear garden, accessed through French doors from the kitchen, offers a private retreat from city life. Here, mature trees provide shade for outdoor dining, while raised beds showcase Emily’s love of growing her own herbs and vegetables. It’s this connection to nature that makes the property feel like a true escape, despite being in the heart of Brooklyn.
Interior Design Style and Atmosphere
Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in a relaxed atmosphere of sophistication. Emily Mortimer’s interior design philosophy becomes clear from the moment you cross the threshold—this is a home that values comfort as much as style, warmth as much as elegance.
The overall aesthetic can best be described as “modern traditional”—a careful balance between honoring the brownstone’s historic character and incorporating contemporary elements that make daily life more comfortable. Original architectural details, such as crown moldings, ceiling medallions, and hardwood floors, have been lovingly restored, providing a foundation of timeless elegance.
Color Palette and Textures
The color scheme throughout the Emily Mortimer house reflects her British sensibility combined with Brooklyn cool. Soft, muted tones dominate—think warm grays, sage greens, and dusty blues—creating a calming backdrop for daily life. These neutral bases allow for pops of color through artwork, textiles, and fresh flowers that change with the seasons.
Texture plays a crucial role in adding depth and interest to each room. Linen curtains filter natural light, creating soft shadows throughout the day. Wool throws drape casually over sofas, inviting you to curl up with a book. Sisal rugs ground the spaces while adding organic warmth underfoot.
The mix of materials creates visual interest without overwhelming the senses. Smooth marble countertops contrast with rough-hewn wooden beams. Velvet cushions sit alongside leather chairs. Glass and metal accents add modern touches without disrupting the overall harmony.
Natural Light as a Design Element
One of the most striking features of Emily’s home is how natural light becomes an integral part of the design. The tall windows, a hallmark of Brooklyn brownstones, have been maximized rather than covered. Sheer curtains provide privacy while allowing sunlight to flood the rooms, creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow that brings the spaces to life.
The Living Room: The Heart of the Home
The living room perfectly encapsulates Emily Mortimer’s approach to creating inviting spaces that feel both elegant and livable. Located on the parlor floor, this room retains its original proportions—nearly 20 feet long with 11-foot ceilings that create an impressive sense of space.
The furniture arrangement encourages conversation and connection. A large, comfortable sofa in soft gray linen faces two vintage armchairs upholstered in a subtle geometric pattern. Between them, a reclaimed wood coffee table displays carefully curated books on art, travel, and photography—offering glimpses into the family’s interests.
Art and Personal Touches
The walls serve as a gallery of memories and artistic expression. A mix of contemporary pieces by emerging Brooklyn artists hangs alongside family photographs and children’s artwork, creating a deeply personal narrative. One particularly striking piece—an abstract oil painting in blues and greens—commands attention above the fireplace, its colors echoing throughout the room’s accessories.
Built-in bookshelves flank the fireplace, filled with an eclectic collection that ranges from classic literature to contemporary fiction, scripts from Emily’s acting projects, and her husband Alessandro Nivola’s music collection. These shelves aren’t just storage; they’re a window into the household’s intellectual and creative life.
Creating Ambiance
The original fireplace, with its carved marble mantel, serves as the room’s focal point. During colder months, it provides both literal and figurative warmth, creating a gathering spot for family and friends. Above it, a large mirror in an ornate gold frame reflects light, making the already spacious room feel even larger.
Lighting has been carefully considered to create different moods throughout the day. A vintage chandelier provides general illumination, while table lamps with fabric shades offer softer, more intimate lighting for evening. Hidden LED strips highlight the architectural details, allowing the room’s historic features to shine even after dark.
Kitchen and Dining Areas
The kitchen represents one of the most dramatic transformations in the Emily Mortimer house. What was once a cramped, closed-off space has been opened up to create a modern culinary haven that still respects the home’s historic character.
Professional-grade stainless-steel appliances—including a six-burner range and double ovens—speak to the family’s love of cooking and entertaining. Yet these modern elements are beautifully balanced with traditional touches like subway tile backsplashes, marble countertops, and custom cabinetry painted in a soft sage green that connects to the garden views beyond.
Function Meets Beauty
The kitchen island, topped with Carrara marble, serves as both a preparation space and a gathering spot. Bar stools allow family members to chat with the cook, supervise homework, and enjoy casual meals. Open shelving displays beautiful dishware and glassware, making everyday items part of the decor.
Storage solutions are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. A walk-in pantry hides behind what appears to be just another cabinet door, keeping counters clutter-free. Deep drawers accommodate pots and pans, while a built-in wine rack and beverage refrigerator make entertaining effortless.
The Dining Experience
The dining room, connected to the kitchen through a wide archway, maintains a more formal atmosphere while still feeling approachable. A rustic farm table, sourced from an upstate New York antique dealer, seats eight comfortably. Mismatched vintage chairs, collected over years, add personality and prevent the space from feeling too serious.
Above the table, a modern chandelier with Edison bulbs provides warm, flattering light for dinner parties. The walls, painted a deep blue-gray, create an intimate atmosphere that invites guests to linger over dessert and conversation.
Bedrooms and Personal Spaces
The private quarters of the brownstone reveal the most intimate aspects of Emily Mortimer’s design sensibility. Each bedroom has been crafted to serve as a personal retreat, balancing style with the practical needs of family life.
Master Suite Sanctuary
The master bedroom occupies the entire third floor front, benefiting from exceptional natural light through three tall windows overlooking the tree-lined street. The color palette here shifts to softer, more restful tones—pale blues and warm whites create a cloud-like atmosphere that promotes relaxation.
The bed, a custom upholstered piece in soft gray velvet, serves as the room’s anchor. Luxurious linens in white and cream layer with textured throws and cushions, creating an inviting nest that beckons at day’s end. Bedside tables—one modern, one vintage—reflect the home’s eclectic approach.
A reading nook by the window features a comfortable armchair and ottoman, perfect for Emily’s script reading or enjoying a quiet moment with a book. The built-in window seat below offers additional storage while providing a cozy spot for morning coffee.
Children’s Creative Spaces
The children’s bedrooms showcase how style and playfulness can coexist beautifully. Each room reflects its occupant’s personality while maintaining the home’s overall aesthetic coherence. Built-in storage solutions keep toys and books organized, while leaving plenty of floor space for play.
One particularly clever feature is the art display system—wires with clips that make it easy to change and celebrate children’s artwork. This simple solution turns the hallway into an ever-evolving gallery that makes young artists feel valued and seen.
Guest Accommodations
The guest room, located on the garden level, offers visitors complete privacy and comfort. Despite being on the lower floor, clever design choices—including pale colors, mirrors, and strategic lighting—keep the space feeling bright and welcoming. A small sitting area with a desk makes it perfect for longer stays or when hosting family.
Bathrooms: Style and Function Combined
The bathrooms in Emily Mortimer’s brownstone prove that functional spaces can be absolutely beautiful. Each has been renovated to provide modern convenience while celebrating vintage charm.
Master Bath Luxury
The master bathroom feels like a personal spa. A freestanding clawfoot tub, refinished to pristine condition, takes center stage. Modern fixtures in brushed brass add warmth while providing excellent water pressure—a luxury in old Brooklyn homes. The double vanity, crafted from reclaimed wood with marble tops, offers ample storage without sacrificing style.
Hexagonal floor tiles in white with black accents create a classic pattern that never goes out of style. The walk-in shower, enclosed in glass, features subway tiles laid in a herringbone pattern and a rainfall showerhead that makes every morning feel like a retreat.
Powder Room Personality
The powder room on the main floor makes a bold statement with a whimsical botanical wallpaper. This small space showcases how taking risks in contained areas can add tremendous personality to a home. A vintage mirror and modern sconce lighting create an intriguing mix of old and new.
Unique Features and Hidden Gems of the Home
What makes the Emily Mortimer house truly special are the unexpected discoveries tucked throughout. These unique features transform a beautiful brownstone into a truly personalized family home.
The Library Haven
On the second floor, what was once a small bedroom has been transformed into a cozy library. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves line three walls, filled with everything from first editions to well-loved paperbacks. A vintage leather chair and ottoman provide the perfect reading spot, while a rolling ladder adds both function and charm.
This room serves as Emily’s personal retreat for script preparation and quiet contemplation. The deep green walls and brass picture light create an atmosphere reminiscent of an English club, a nod to her British heritage.
The Artist’s Nook
A clever use of space under the stairs has created a compact home office that doesn’t sacrifice style. Custom built-ins maximize every inch, providing storage for supplies and displaying cherished mementos from Emily’s acting career. A small desk fits perfectly in the alcove, creating a workspace that feels intentional rather than squeezed in.
Eco-Friendly Innovations
Throughout the home, sustainable choices reflect the family’s environmental consciousness. Solar panels on the roof, barely visible from street level, help power the home. Energy-efficient windows maintain the historic appearance while dramatically improving insulation. A sophisticated composting system in the garden turns kitchen waste into nutrient-rich soil.
Here’s a breakdown of the eco-friendly features:
FeatureBenefitAnnual Savings
Solar Panels Reduced electricity bills $2,400
LED Lighting Lower energy consumption $300
Smart Thermostat Optimized heating/cooling $180
Low-flow Fixtures Water conservation $150
Energy-Star Appliances Efficient operation $200
How the Brownstone Reflects Emily Mortimer’s Personality
Every corner of this Brooklyn brownstone tells a story about who Emily Mortimer is beyond the silver screen. The home perfectly captures her dual identity as a British actress living in New York, an intellectual who values comfort, and a mother creating a nurturing environment for her family.
The blend of British and American influences appears throughout. Traditional English elements—like the library’s club chair and the formal tea service displayed in the dining room—mix seamlessly with Brooklyn’s casual cool. This cultural fusion creates spaces that feel both sophisticated and approachable.
Her theatrical background influences the home’s dramatic moments—the statement wallpaper, the bold art choices, the play of light and shadow. Yet these theatrical elements never overshadow the home’s primary purpose as a comfortable family haven.
Family Life at the Forefront
Evidence of family life adds authentic warmth to every room. Children’s artwork shares wall space with professional pieces. Musical instruments—reflecting husband Alessandro Nivola’s passion—rest in corners ready for impromptu performances. Board games stack on coffee tables, and comfortable throws drape over every seat, inviting family movie nights.
The home’s flow encourages togetherness while respecting individual space. Open areas for gathering, balanced by quiet corners for solitude, reflecting Emily’s understanding that family life requires both connection and independence.
The Real Estate Perspective: Value and Appeal
From a real estate standpoint, the Emily Mortimer house represents a significant investment in one of Brooklyn’s most stable and desirable markets. Boerum Hill brownstones have shown consistent appreciation, with values increasing by approximately 40% over the past decade.
Market Dynamics
The appeal of these properties extends beyond mere numbers. Brooklyn brownstones in neighborhoods like Boerum Hill offer something increasingly rare in New York City—the opportunity to own a single-family home with outdoor space, original architectural details, and a strong sense of community.
Current market trends show that renovated brownstones in Boerum Hill command prices between $3 million and $6 million, depending on size and condition. Properties owned by celebrities often command a 10-15% premium, though the “celebrity factor” tends to normalize over time.
Investment Wisdom
What makes properties like Emily’s particularly valuable is the quality of renovation. By preserving historic details while adding modern amenities, these homes appeal to buyers who want both character and convenience. The thoughtful updates—from the opened kitchen to the eco-friendly systems—add substantial value while maintaining the property’s authentic charm.
The neighborhood itself continues to evolve, with new restaurants, shops, and cultural venues enhancing desirability without sacrificing the area’s essential character. This balanced growth suggests continued appreciation for well-maintained brownstones in the area.
Tips for Emulating Emily Mortimer’s Home Style
Want to bring some of that Emily Mortimer magic into your own space? You don’t need a Brooklyn brownstone or a celebrity budget to capture the essence of her design philosophy. Here are practical ways to incorporate her style into your home:
Start with a Neutral Foundation
Begin by establishing a calm, neutral base for your rooms. Paint walls in soft grays, warm whites, or muted earth tones. This creates a versatile backdrop that allows you to change accessories and accent colors seasonally without repainting.
Choose one or two accent colors to weave throughout your space. Emily’s use of sage greens and dusty blues creates cohesion without monotony. Repeat these colors in throw pillows, artwork, and small accessories to tie rooms together.
Mix High and Low
One of the most appealing aspects of Emily’s home is how expensive pieces mingle with finds from flea markets and vintage shops. You might splurge on one statement piece—like a quality sofa—then surround it with budget-friendly accessories and second-hand treasures.
Visit estate sales, thrift stores, and online marketplaces for unique pieces that add character. That mismatched dining chair set? It’s not a compromise; it’s a design choice that adds personality and tells a story.
Layer Textures and Materials
Create visual interest by combining different textures throughout your space. Mix smooth and rough, shiny and matte, soft and firm. Try pairing:
- Linen curtains with velvet cushions
- Wool throws with leather furniture
- Sisal rugs with silk pillows
- Wood furniture with metal accents
Embrace Personal Collections
Don’t hide your interests and passions. Display collections thoughtfully—whether it’s books, artwork, or travel souvenirs. Group similar items together for impact, and don’t be afraid to mix personal pieces with more formal decor.
Create Cozy Corners
Every home needs spots that invite relaxation and contemplation. Identify underused corners and transform them into purposeful spaces:
- Add a reading chair and good lamp to create a mini library
- Place a small desk in an alcove for a compact office
- Install floating shelves to display rotating art or photos
Invest in Good Lighting
Layer your lighting to create different moods throughout the day. Combine:
- Overhead fixtures for general illumination
- Table and floor lamps for task lighting
- Accent lights to highlight architectural features or artwork
- Candles for atmospheric evening light
Bring Nature Inside
Plants and fresh flowers instantly enliven any space. Start with low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos if you’re not confident with greenery. Fresh flowers don’t have to be expensive—even grocery store bouquets add life and color when arranged thoughtfully in vintage vases or mason jars.
Where Does Emily Mortimer’ Currently Live?
Emily Mortimer currently lives in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, New York. She has been residing there for many years with her husband, American actor Alessandro Nivola, and their children. Mortimer moved to New York from London and has expressed a preference for the city’s vibrant, grounded environment over Los Angeles. She has been living in New York for about 20 years now and even became an American citizen in 2010, while maintaining her British citizenship. This Brooklyn brownstone location is just over the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan and suits her family lifestyle and proximity to England.
