11 Ways Southern Design Could Appear In Brooklyn Interiors

Brooklyn homes are evolving beyond their industrial roots, and Southern design elements offer the perfect touch of warmth and hospitality.

Merging these distinct styles creates spaces that feel both trendy and timeless a balance many Brooklyn homeowners seek.

I’ve noticed more Southern influences creeping into city apartments lately, bringing comfort and character to urban living.

1. Whitewashed Brick Walls

Southern charm meets Brooklyn edge when traditional red brick gets a whitewash treatment. This technique preserves the texture while softening the industrial feel that dominates many Brooklyn lofts.

I’ve seen this look transform harsh spaces into airy, light-filled rooms that still maintain their architectural integrity. The whitewash allows the brick’s character to show through subtly.

For DIY enthusiasts, this project offers big impact without requiring professional help. Simply dilute white paint with water and apply it unevenly for that authentic, weathered look that feels both Southern and sophisticated.

2. Porch-Style Ceiling Fans

Wide-blade ceiling fans reminiscent of Southern porches are making their way into Brooklyn apartments, bringing both function and nostalgic charm. These statement pieces often feature natural wood tones and traditional styling that contrasts beautifully with urban surroundings.

Unlike their sleek, modern counterparts, Southern-inspired fans create visual interest while circulating air efficiently. The gentle whoosh of these fans reminds me of lazy summer afternoons.

Many Brooklyn homeowners are installing these fans in unexpected places above dining tables or in entryways rather than limiting them to bedrooms. This unexpected placement creates conversation pieces that blend comfort with character.

3. Vintage Wooden Tables

Farmhouse tables with rich history are the unsung heroes of Southern-Brooklyn fusion. These substantial pieces often become the heart of urban dining spaces, their weathered surfaces telling stories of generations past.

When paired with modern chairs or benches, these tables create a compelling tension between old and new. The warm patina of aged wood softens the harder edges typical in Brooklyn interiors.

If authentic antiques exceed your budget, reclaimed wood options offer similar character at lower price points. Look for tables with interesting knots, nail holes, or other imperfections that add to their Southern charm while complementing Brooklyn’s appreciation for authenticity and craftsmanship.

4. Botanical Print Fabrics

Magnolias, palmetto leaves, and other Southern flora are blooming across Brooklyn in the form of bold textile patterns. These botanical prints inject vibrant color and organic shapes into otherwise minimal spaces.

What makes this trend distinctly Southern is the scale and subject matter oversized blooms and lush greenery that evoke humid summer evenings. I love seeing these prints on statement pillows, drapery, or even as framed textile art.

The key to keeping this look Brooklyn-appropriate is balance. Pair these rich patterns with clean-lined furniture and industrial elements to prevent the space from feeling too precious or themed. This creates that perfect tension between refined Southern aesthetics and Brooklyn’s edgier sensibilities.

5. Layered Patterned Rugs

Southern homes have long embraced the art of layering patterned rugs, a practice now finding favor in Brooklyn’s hardwood-floored apartments. This technique adds warmth, texture, and a collected-over-time quality that feels both intentional and effortless.

When selecting rugs to layer, consider pairing geometric patterns with florals or stripes with more organic designs. The juxtaposition creates visual interest while anchoring furniture groupings in open-concept spaces.

Though this look appears casually assembled, it requires some planning. Start with a larger, more neutral base rug, then add smaller, more vibrant pieces on top. This approach honors Southern traditions of pattern-mixing while satisfying Brooklyn’s appetite for artistic, personalized spaces.

6. Wicker And Rattan Accents

Woven natural materials like wicker and rattan bring immediate Southern sensibility to Brooklyn’s concrete jungle. These lightweight, textural elements recall Charleston porches and New Orleans courtyards while adding organic contrast to industrial spaces.

Instead of full wicker furniture sets (which might feel too literal), Brooklyn designers are incorporating these materials through statement pieces. A single peacock chair, rattan pendant light, or woven side table makes a stronger impact than matching sets.

The natural honey tones of these materials warm up the cool color palettes often found in Brooklyn apartments. For a contemporary twist, look for pieces that combine wicker with metal frames or unexpected silhouettes that honor tradition while embracing modern sensibilities.

7. Antique Sideboards

Heirloom-quality sideboards and buffets transport Southern hospitality into Brooklyn dining areas and entryways. These substantial pieces often feature intricate detailing, quality craftsmanship, and rich wood tones that contrast beautifully with modern surroundings.

What makes these pieces particularly valuable in Brooklyn apartments is their functionality. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they provide crucial storage in space-challenged homes while serving as display areas for collections and art.

The patina of an antique sideboard tells stories that new furniture simply cannot. When shopping for these statement pieces, look for dovetail joints, solid wood construction, and original hardware signs of quality that will continue to add character to your Brooklyn home for years to come.

8. Pastel Painted Cabinets

Mint green, pale blue, and soft yellow cabinets are bringing Southern color sensibilities into Brooklyn kitchens. These gentle hues recall historic homes in Savannah and Charleston while providing a fresh alternative to all-white or industrial kitchen designs.

Pairing these pastel cabinets with subway tile backsplashes and modern hardware creates a perfect balance between Southern charm and Brooklyn edge. The soft colors also make small kitchens feel larger and more inviting.

For those hesitant to commit fully, consider painting just lower cabinets or a kitchen island in these Southern-inspired shades. This approach maintains visual lightness while introducing color that brightens morning coffee routines and evening meal preparations in typically light-challenged Brooklyn apartments.

9. Farmhouse-Style Sinks

Deep, wide farmhouse sinks are practical investments that instantly evoke Southern country kitchens. Their generous proportions make a statement while offering genuine utility for serious cooks working in compact Brooklyn kitchens.

While traditional white fireclay versions remain popular, I’m seeing more creative applications hammered copper, natural stone, and even concrete variations that blend Southern roots with Brooklyn’s industrial aesthetic. These sinks become focal points that anchor the entire kitchen design.

Beyond kitchens, smaller versions are appearing in Brooklyn bathrooms as statement vanities. This unexpected application brings Southern practicality to urban living while creating distinctive spaces that stand out from cookie-cutter apartment renovations. The extra depth also proves invaluable for urban dwellers who hand-wash delicate clothing.

10. Distressed Wood Finishes

Weathered wood with authentic patina brings Southern architectural salvage style into Brooklyn homes. These elements from ceiling beams to flooring to furniture add instant character and warmth to newer constructions.

The appeal lies in the imperfections. Saw marks, nail holes, and uneven coloration tell stories of previous lives and uses. When contrasted against crisp white walls or industrial elements, these weathered pieces create compelling visual tension.

For those unable to source authentic architectural salvage, many manufacturers now offer convincing distressed finishes. The key to incorporating this look successfully is restraint choose one or two statement pieces rather than filling the space with artificially aged items, which helps maintain Brooklyn’s appreciation for authenticity.

11. Gingham Or Plaid Upholstery

Classic Southern patterns like gingham and plaid are making unexpected appearances on contemporary furniture in Brooklyn homes. These familiar checks and crosshatches bring immediate warmth and approachability to modern silhouettes.

Unlike their traditional applications, Brooklyn’s interpretation often features oversized scales or unexpected colorways that feel fresh and deliberate. Think navy and white buffalo check on a streamlined sofa or subtle windowpane plaid on dining chairs.

The beauty of these patterns lies in their versatility. They read as both nostalgic and current, traditional and edgy perfect for Brooklyn’s contrasting aesthetics. For commitment-phobes, throw pillows and ottomans offer lower-risk ways to experiment with these Southern patterns without overwhelming urban spaces.