CHELSEA LOFT aka #ClientNewYorkLoft
Nestled between the hustle and bustle of 5th and 6th Avenue, this Chelsea loft is home to a young couple with three children and a live-in Au Pair. As their children grew, these clients dreamed of updating their loft to create a sophisticated and livable space.
The design intent for this renovation was to create a more sophisticated version of the existing bones. We worked with materials that would age gracefully and be suitable for an active family. Once clad with bean bags, the living room became the heart and soul of the space with plenty of seating to accommodate the whole family. We decided on a sea-colored custom-sized Armadillo and Co. rug to set the stage. The custom radiator cushions were made to fit perfectly with the white oak insets as a place to read the morning paper with a cup of coffee. The once barren walls became a focal point with a large custom-designed media unit. To add a sense of warmth to the shelves, we looked for local accessories and handmade décor that had a story to tell. There are countless handmade pieces next to vintage and reused books. As you shift the attention to the adjacent dining room, a large abstract work of art is highlighted. It was painted by the client, and remained one of my favorite pieces incorporated into the new design.
As you pass by the kitchen, a hallway leads to the children’s bedrooms. The children’s spaces were a key component to the project. In the boys’ room, custom millwork allows for play, work and down time. The white oak and dark blue accents create a color palette that can age with both boys. The millwork incorporates two twin-sized beds, a trundle bed, drawers, shelves, and two desks for homework. Next door, the Au Pair’s room also boasts custom white-oak millwork which will one day turn into the eldest son's bedroom. This piece was meant to feel like a connected unit seamlessly flowing from desk, to bed, to nightstand. Because the room is narrow, this layout allowed us to fit all the necessary components without sacrificing design.
These spaces have given a new life to the once toddler and toy-filled home; it has grown up just as my client’s children have – creating an overall feel that is more mature, warm and comfortable.
Image credit: Nick Glimenakis