brownstone
UK: /ˈbraʊn.stəʊn/ | US: /ˈbraʊn.stoʊn/
n. 1. A type of reddish-brown sandstone used in building construction.
n. 2. A house or building faced with brownstone, especially a traditional row house in cities like New York.
The word "brownstone" is a straightforward compound of "brown" (from Old English brūn, meaning the color) and "stone" (from Old English stān, meaning rock or mineral). It emerged in the early 19th century to describe the reddish-brown sandstone quarried in the U.S., which became a popular material for urban row houses. The term later became synonymous with the buildings themselves, particularly in Northeastern American cities.
The historic district is lined with elegant brownstones from the 19th century.
They renovated a brownstone in Brooklyn into a modern family home.
The façade of the building was made of polished brownstone.
Many brownstones feature ornate iron railings and stoops.
The architect chose brownstone for its durability and warm hue.