This Manhattan Penthouse Features a Secret Rooftop Garden (and the Interiors Are Seriously Chic Too)

This blog post highlights a penthouse apartment located at 217 2nd Avenue in the East Village, which was recently put on the market for $2.8 million. The apartment is a full-floor condo that blends old-world New York charm with rustic design elements. This blend is evident in features such as wide plank pine floors, vintage oak cabinets, and a 'lovingly worn' marble sink. The entrance leads into an industrial-chic commercial-grade kitchen, which features a skylight and a spiral staircase. This kitchen area seamlessly transitions into a spacious dining area. The dining area is characterized by exposed brick walls and aged built-in storage, adding to the apartment's rustic appeal. Pocket doors with etched glass separate the dining room from the living room, which is distinguished by oversized windows, crown molding, and a marble-clad fireplace. The penthouse includes two bedrooms, with a clear distinction in size and amenities between them. The master bedroom offers a wall of closets, abundant natural light, and a second wood-burning fireplace, emphasizing comfort and luxury. Conveniently located just outside the master bedroom are a spa bath and a laundry room, enhancing its functionality. In contrast, the second bedroom is described as small and is situated on the opposite side of the apartment, adjacent to the living room and away from the home's second bathroom, suggesting a less private or less comfortable arrangement compared to the master. A unique feature of this penthouse is its rooftop garden, accessed via the spiral staircase in the kitchen. This rooftop space is described as lush, filled with mature plants, and notably includes a vegetable garden. The presence of a private outdoor space, especially a vegetable garden, is a significant amenity for an urban dwelling. The apartment's location is also highlighted, being only blocks away from Union Square, which offers a vibrant city experience with convenient access to various amenities and activities. This combination of traditional design, functional living spaces, and unique outdoor features positions the penthouse as a desirable property in the East Village market, offering a balance of urban convenience and a tranquil, green retreat. #EastVillagePenthouse #RooftopGarden #VegetableGarden #LuxuryRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #IndustrialChic #VintageDesign #Stribling #UnionSquareProximity

This article explores a historic 1920s double-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of New York City, which served as the 47th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House. The clients purchased the entire building after attending the show house, initiating a gut renovation led by Francis Nicdao, principal designer and chief creative officer of Pembrooke & Ives, and Stephanie Sarkies-Schabot, the firm's managing director of decorating. The renovation, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to create a family home capable of displaying a vast, museum-quality art and antique collection without feeling overly formal. The design achieved a balance between contemporary cleanliness and traditional detailing, respecting the building's historical character. The entryway features checkerboard marble flooring and a spectacular spiral staircase connecting five of the six levels, designed to facilitate a smooth transition to vertical living. The living room, expansive due to the home's double-wide layout, is furnished with collectible design pieces and art, creating a grand and impactful atmosphere. Gold accents add a glamorous edge to a soft color palette. The combined breakfast and family room functions as the home's hub, with a custom back-to-back sofa dividing dining and lounge areas. This space, which opens into the kitchen, incorporates rich textures and blue hues, overlooked by Ralph Goings's artwork, _Tom’s Diner_. The kitchen, located on the entry floor, was designed for high functionality and ease of maintenance, with easily cleanable surfaces and ample counter space. Its blue island and barstools create a cohesive connection with the adjacent breakfast room. The wine cellar and wet bar, located in the basement and dining room respectively, demonstrate that even lower-level spaces can be glamorous, featuring specialty lighting for the wine display and a high-gloss blue paint with a mirrored backsplash in the wet bar. The primary suite, one of seven bedrooms, offers a dreamy ambiance with pink details and natural light enhancing its glow. The unique layout connects the bedroom to a walk-in closet and bathroom through a windowed corridor along the back facade. A guest bedroom provides a relaxing retreat with a neutral color palette, plush carpeting, embroidered drapery, a custom upholstered headboard, and a high-gloss wall finish. The primary bathroom integrates decorative lighting as a focal point, with a stunning chandelier and sconces, alongside symmetrical design and stone detailing for a luxurious and modern feel. Finally, the backyard patio, designed by landscape architect Luciano Guibbilei, serves as a “zen-like enclave” in the city, covering approximately 1,500 square feet and featuring a mural by artist Annie Morris, providing a serene outdoor escape. #NewYorkCity #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HistoricPreservation #ArtCollection #PembrookeAndIves #KipsBayShowHouse #HomeDecor

A 3,000+ square-foot pre-war condominium penthouse at 10 East 14th Street in Union Square, Manhattan, is listed for $6.995 million. This residence, described as a “splendid chateau,” features a 600-square-foot all-glass conservatory and an expansive 1,300-square-foot rooftop garden. The interior design blends lush and lively aesthetics, incorporating exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and custom built-ins. A gas-burning fireplace and ceiling speakers contribute to the home's ambiance. The kitchen is designed for a chef, equipped with high-end appliances including two Miele dishwashers, a wet bar, a wine fridge, a double oven, a Thermador five-burner gas cooktop, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. Walnut kitchen cabinets and custom closets provide ample storage. A three-seat eat-in island is adorned with honed Jerusalem Gold limestone, while a custom Anne Sacks mosaic tile backsplash complements a hand-painted cherry tree mural. The living and dining areas feature walnut-framed windows, bookshelves, and a stone gas fireplace with a custom lacquer mantle, offering a blend of Moroccan and Parisian chic design elements. The master suite includes both reach-in and walk-in closets. Its en-suite bathroom boasts 12-foot ceilings, a heated floor, exposed brick, decorative mosaic tile floors, and mother-of-pearl walls. The second bedroom offers floor-to-ceiling closets and drawers, with direct access to a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. A third bedroom, which can also function as a home office, is fitted with bespoke cherry built-ins, including a cinema center. The conservatory, a prominent feature of the penthouse, serves as a versatile space, ideal for a second living room, a lounge, an office, or an entertainment area. It provides access to north and south-facing private gardens. These outdoor spaces are well-appointed with a plumbed gas grill, a gas fire pit, a sink and fridge, a timed irrigation system, custom furniture and storage, a pair of pergolas, and an elaborate lighting system designed for outdoor entertaining. #Penthouse #UnionSquare #LuxuryRealEstate #Manhattan #RooftopGarden #Conservatory #PreWarCondo #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign

This article highlights Anne Hathaway's former balcony garden in NYC, emphasizing its modern design for privacy, shade, and patio coverage. The garden, landscaped by Jeffrey Erb Landscape Design, is situated in a historic Neo-Georgian property and serves as an example of how small urban spaces can be transformed into leafy retreats. The author, Jennifer Ebert, praises the use of a covered arbor or pergola, which she describes as magical at dusk when adorned with scented plants or lights. These structures are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, offering essential shade and privacy, aspects often underestimated. The article then delves into expert advice on implementing pergolas and arbors. Garden designer Charlotte Rowe suggests that these structures are primarily for shade, not rain shelter, and their optimal placement depends on the layout of the outdoor living area and the homeowner's specific needs. Another garden designer, Katrina Kieffer-Wells, notes that pergolas with shade sails are versatile, suitable for both sunny and shady spots, depending on usage times. For south-facing gardens, a partially enclosed pergola can create a tranquil retreat from the sun. In shade gardens, they can become cozy nighttime features with ambient lighting and hanging drapes. Beyond structures, the article addresses privacy planting, especially crucial in urban settings with high-rise neighbors. It recommends building planters along the outer edges of a rooftop garden, allowing for a mix of taller trees for privacy and smaller shrubs and annuals for color. Alternatively, faux planters offer a low-maintenance option for adding color, easily slotted over railings and secured against wind. The article includes a 'Shop the look' section, suggesting various products to achieve a similar aesthetic. This includes decorative screens for privacy and stylish outdoor shading solutions like beach umbrellas and shade sail canopies. These temporary structures can create an enclosed, intimate space for dining and entertaining, offering ample shade and dappled sunlight, thereby extending the living space outdoors. The overall focus is on creating sophisticated and functional outdoor living areas, drawing inspiration from celebrity homes. #AnneHathaway #CelebrityHomes #UrbanGardens #BalconyGardens #PatioDesign #PergolaIdeas #PrivacyPlanting #OutdoorLiving #HomeAndGarden

A luxurious penthouse at 94 Thompson Street in Soho, listed for $10.9 million, distinguishes itself with a unique open-air lightwell transformed into a zen garden, complete with a mature cherry tree, acting as the central feature of the residence. Designed by architects Nico Rensch and Victoria Blau, this three-bedroom co-op spans multiple levels and boasts extensive outdoor spaces, including two terraces on the second floor and a large roof deck equipped with an outdoor kitchen. Upon entering, a custom built-in bookcase serves as a subtle divider between the dining area and the stairway. The dining space features a built-in, banquet-style table, extending over 15 feet, which can be discreetly hidden. The focal point of the interior is the sunken great room, characterized by its impressive 23-foot ceilings and double-height windows. This grand living area is strategically positioned adjacent to the zen garden, offering a seamless connection to nature. It includes a linear gas fireplace, custom built-in seating, integrated lighting, and a home theater system. The kitchen, designed as a "hideaway" space, features hand-rubbed Larch wood millwork cabinetry, honed volcanic basalt stone slab floors, and stainless steel countertops. It is outfitted with high-end appliances, including a Kuppersbusch stovetop and additional appliances from Bosch and Dacor. The private quarters, comprising three bedrooms, are situated on the opposite side of the lightwell, ensuring tranquility and separation from the main living areas. The master bedroom is notable for its sunken bed design and a full wall of glass that provides views of the zen garden. This suite also includes a spacious walk-in closet with a custom storage system and an en-suite bathroom. The master bathroom is appointed with a step-down tub/shower, a rain shower head, radiant heated floors, and a modern trough sink, offering a spa-like experience. The second floor of the penthouse is dedicated to a large home office, which overlooks the great room below, maintaining a connection to the primary living space. This level is flanked by two landscaped terraces, providing additional private outdoor retreats. The roof deck represents the pinnacle of outdoor living, offering expansive views and a convenient overhead cover. It is fully equipped with an outdoor kitchen, featuring a gas-powered grill, refrigerator, and sink, making it ideal for entertaining. The building itself, formerly a loft, is known as the Soho Gallery Building. Constructed in 1900, it was converted into nine co-op residences in 2002, blending historical architecture with modern luxury living. #SohoPenthouse #LuxuryRealEstate #ZenGarden #OutdoorSpace #ArchitecturalDesign #NewYorkCity #CoopApartment #ModernLiving #CustomInteriors

New York City's real estate market is experiencing a notable trend where luxury penthouses are being developed with exceptional private rooftop amenities, elevating the standard for high-end urban living. This development is influenced by New York's creative approach to rooftop spaces, which traditionally include diverse experiences from seasonal activities like curling and ski chalets to year-round social events. Property developers are now integrating these inventive concepts into private residences, offering exclusive access to luxurious rooftop features. The article highlights several penthouse listings that showcase these elaborate private rooftops. These amenities are designed to provide a comprehensive lifestyle experience, featuring hot tubs for relaxation, landscaped gardens, outdoor movie theaters, and even pizza ovens for culinary entertainment. This trend represents a unique opportunity for buyers to acquire properties that merge indoor comfort with extensive outdoor living spaces, providing an unparalleled 'only-in-New-York' experience. One prominent example is the pair of ultra-luxury penthouses at 212 West 72nd Street on the Upper West Side. These residences, priced at $19.15 million for Penthouse North and $13.5 million for Penthouse South, redefine indoor-outdoor living with their private rooftops. These rooftops are meticulously landscaped and include amenities such as hot tubs with views of Central Park, outdoor theaters for movie nights, and pizza ovens, enabling year-round enjoyment and sophisticated entertaining. The interiors of these penthouses, designed by CetraRuddy, emphasize the building's distinctive curved architecture at 72nd Street and Broadway, further enhancing their unique appeal. Another featured property is Penthouse 34 at 200 East 59th Street, a sister building to the renowned 432 Park Avenue. This penthouse offers breathtaking views of Central Park, impressive 14-foot ceilings, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. A significant highlight is its large, covered roof deck, which provides an outdoor dining room experience—a rarity in New York City. The building's architectural design by CetraRuddy is notable for its column-free interiors, achieved by positioning support structures on the exterior, which gives the building a distinctive Manhattan-meets-Miami aesthetic. This residence is listed at $17.96 million. Front & York in DUMBO presents Penthouse 20C, designed by architect Morris Adjmi. This property offers a full-service, luxury urban oasis experience. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is characterized by abundant natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the Brooklyn skyline. An exclusive nearly 850-square-foot private terrace, equipped with a gas grill, facilitates exceptional indoor-outdoor entertaining. Penthouse 20C is currently on the market for $4.51 million. Additional listings mentioned include properties in the Sweeney Building, Arris Lofts, 199 Mott, and One Kenmare Square. These examples collectively illustrate a growing demand for luxury penthouses that provide extensive, private outdoor spaces, transforming the urban living experience in New York City into one of grandeur and exclusive amenity access. #NYCPenthouses #LuxuryRealEstate #PrivateRooftops #UrbanLiving #HighEndAmenities #CetraRuddyDesign #MorrisAdjmiArchitecture #RealEstateDevelopment #NewYorkCity

This blog explores innovative home designs that integrate indoor gardens, showcasing how properties can achieve lush green spaces even without traditional backyards. The concept of indoor-outdoor living is redefined through examples from various architectural projects worldwide. One featured home is the Wall House in Biên Hòa, Vietnam, designed by Creative Architects CTA. Situated near the Đồng Nai River, the house was conceived to 'breathe' and preserve the existing garden on the land. It comprises eight distinct living spaces surrounded by unfinished walls that allow for air circulation, crucial for Vietnam's tropical climate. Three 'breathing walls,' constructed from hollow bricks, facilitate natural light and ventilation while filtering out pollution and maintaining privacy. An indoor garden serves as a visual extension of the outdoor greenery and mitigates environmental impact on the living space. The communal areas are on the ground floor, with bedrooms and a shared study upstairs, the latter opening to a void connected to the garden below. In Glamorganshire, UK, a sustainable rural home designed by LOYN+CO Architects is built into a hillside. This energy-efficient residence, completed in December 2020, replaced an older dwelling to maximize views of the Welsh countryside. The homeowners, keen gardeners, requested a practical home that could bring the outside in. The entrance leads to a soaring atrium featuring a three-storey indoor garden, supported by an irrigation system and requiring 20 tonnes of soil. This indoor jungle, planted by the homeowners, provides a central focal point and allows for year-round gardening, including plants that would not survive outdoors in the UK. The staircase is flanked by cork and preserved moss walls, which absorb noise, insulate, and purify the air. Christos Pavlou Architecture's 'The Garden House' in Nicosia, Cyprus, emphasizes urban gardening's potential to improve city living conditions and mitigate global warming. The house features two rectangular cubes separated by a green courtyard, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. A 79-foot-long glazed sliding door allows the house to open up to the courtyard. The main garden is also connected to a public green space, benefiting the neighborhood. The garden is central to the home's design, with every room offering garden views, and a planted area under the stairs maximizes space. 60% of the ground floor is planted to attract bees, and a first-floor terrace boasts a living roof, providing additional green space and views. Vertical Oasis in Singapore, by HYLA Architects, addresses the challenge of building on a busy road while ensuring privacy. The main spaces are built around a courtyard garden, featuring a double-height living room and dining area that open to a stunning courtyard with two pools, a koi pond, and a towering tree. A glass roof and anodized aluminum trellis protect the interior from rain and sun, provide shade, ensure privacy, and promote ventilation. The master bathroom also includes a planted area, creating a rainforest-like showering experience. Wall House in Khaldiya, Kuwait, by AGi Architects, initially appears fortress-like but reveals a vibrant interior. Designed from the inside out, it replaces traditional walls with glass and greenery. The ultra-modern property features a protective outer shell that encloses a series of atrium gardens. The ground floor's open-plan living area is surrounded by lush greenery, with trees extending to an open-air terrace. Many bedrooms also have private oases. Upper-floor common rooms extend to discreet balconies, ideal for entertaining. Perforated screens provide shade, and the greenery grows across different levels of the home. 66MRN-House in Singapore, designed by ONG&ONG;, is a Zen-inspired home that maximizes nature views and blends interior and exterior spaces with floor-to-ceiling glass and abundant greenery. The house is divided into two sections, with the focal point being an open-air atrium featuring a reflective pool and delicate trees. This 10-foot-wide void extends from the ground to the third floor, ensuring cross-ventilation and natural light. Glass picture windows on the first floor offer courtyard glimpses, and numerous terraces with artificial grass further blur indoor and outdoor boundaries, including a rooftop deck with planted trees. Casa MCNY in Sao Paulo, Brazil, by MF+ Arquitectos, is designed for Brazil's tropical climate, featuring an open-plan living space with retractable, perforated doors for an indoor-outdoor experience. The house integrates with its environment and includes an open-plan lounge, dining area, kitchen, and four bedrooms, all connected to the outdoors. A highlight is the indoor garden spanning the living room, behind sliding glass doors, filled with tropical foliage complementing the wood, natural stone, concrete, and Corten steel materials. The kitchen transforms into a gourmet balcony, and a second terrace leads to a swimming pool. Finally, the Three Gardens House in Mubarak Al-Kabeer, Kuwait, also by AGi Architects, addresses the arid desert climate by creating outside spaces usable year-round. It features three distinct gardens on different floors: the Wet Garden on the ground floor with native plants, a pool, and fountains, surrounded by social spaces; the Summer Garden 13 feet below street level with a large pool for evapotranspiration and air circulation; and the Winter Garden on the roof, covered by a "perforated skin" of anodized aluminum for shade and privacy. These gardens are connected by exterior staircases, with the aluminum screen extending to some exterior walls, allowing sunlight and providing shelter for indoor vegetation. #IndoorGardens #SustainableArchitecture #BiophilicDesign #ModernHomes #GreenLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #TropicalArchitecture #EcoFriendlyDesign

The article details the design of Andree Caldwell's Manhattan penthouse by Hutton Wilkinson, showcasing a maximalist aesthetic inspired by Venetian palazzos. Caldwell, a lecturer on 17th-century Old Master paintings, first encountered Wilkinson's work at a design weekend in the Lyford Cay Club, Bahamas, where he spoke about his mentor, Tony Duquette. Impressed by Duquette's aesthetic, which she felt resonated with her experiences in Venice, Caldwell commissioned Wilkinson to design her New York penthouse. The collaboration between Caldwell and Wilkinson is described as a "date with destiny," revealing a prior connection to the apartment. Years before, Wilkinson had found the same apartment for a client, who ultimately did not purchase it. He then intended to buy it himself but was pre-empted by Caldwell, a long-time family friend of the previous owners. Caldwell provided Wilkinson with a budget and complete creative freedom, allowing him to fully express his unique design philosophy. Wilkinson's design approach, similar to Duquette's, emphasizes elevating the ordinary and disregarding conventional rules. This is evident in the choice of materials and finishes throughout the 1,000-square-foot space. Velvet is used to cover walls, while malachite-patterned cotton adorns ceiling beams. Antique chairs are painted green and their silk upholstery is marked with felt-tip pens, which Wilkinson describes as "chic." The decor further includes bed curtains edged with pearls and citrines, golden brocade on baseboards and moldings, and marble tabletops painted to resemble tortoiseshell. Caldwell expressed delight with the results, despite some initial surprises. The penthouse's design aims to create an atmosphere conducive to sophisticated entertaining, reminiscent of the glamorous salons depicted in Woody Allen’s film, *Midnight in Paris*. Mirrors strategically placed on ceilings and walls enhance the perception of space and amplify light from the three terraces, contributing to an opulent and expansive feel. The interior is divided into distinct zones, including a drawing room, living room and bar, and a primary bedroom, each meticulously designed with intricate details. The drawing room, drenched in emerald hues, features Roman shades made from Tony Duquette cotton for Jim Thompson Fabrics and art by Joseph Heintz the Younger. Natural motifs, such as coral and leopard spots, are incorporated to add visual interest. A custom banquette, antique table, and a 19th-century Chinese Coromandel screen further enrich the space. For dining, a deep velvet-covered sofa is positioned alongside an antique table, adorned with tablecloths made from Tony Duquette cottons and complemented by 18th-century English chairs. The living room and bar area continue the theme of graphic patterns with coral and leopard spots. A custom banquette, an antique table, a 19th-century Chinese Coromandel screen, and art by Henri Cartier-Bresson define this space. A Venetian secretary is repurposed as a bar, furnished with Tony Duquette dinnerware for Mottahedeh. The primary bedroom is enveloped in golden brocade and lace, creating an opulent and luminous sanctuary. It features a vintage mirror, an Italian chest, an antique lamp from the Tony Duquette collection, and a custom bed with a canopy, dressed in linens from E. Braun & Co. For entertaining, the article highlights the presentation of Champagne and caviar hors d’oeuvres on a malachite-painted table, accompanied by Georgian candlesticks and Tony Duquette dinnerware for Mottahedeh. The article concludes by noting its original publication in the November/December 2014 issue, with interior design credited to Hutton Wilkinson, photography by Francesco Lagnese, production by Carolyn Englefield, and writing by Frances Schultz. #InteriorDesign #MaximalistDecor #ManhattanPenthouse #HuttonWilkinson #VenetianPalazzo #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #TonyDuquette #HouseTour

The article details the design of a maximalist Manhattan penthouse, owned by Andree Caldwell and designed by Hutton Wilkinson, which evokes the opulence of a Venetian palazzo. The collaboration between Caldwell and Wilkinson began serendipitously at a design weekend in the Bahamas in January 2013, where Wilkinson was speaking about his mentor, Tony Duquette. Caldwell, a lecturer on 17th-century Old Master paintings, was deeply inspired by Wilkinson's aesthetic, which she likened to the dreamlike quality of Venice. She envisioned a space where every object was a work of art, with layers of materials, such as coral and candelabra, gold silks, white lace, velvet walls, and black candles that made flames appear to float. Wilkinson's connection to the penthouse predated his meeting with Caldwell; he had previously discovered the apartment for a client who ultimately didn't purchase it, and he himself was outbid by Caldwell. He views this as a fated encounter, adhering to the "tao of design" principle that the teacher appears when the pupil is ready. Caldwell granted Wilkinson a budget and complete creative freedom, allowing him to implement his distinctive design philosophy. This approach, similar to Duquette's, prioritizes exalting the humble, eschewing the overly precious, and disregarding conventional design rules. The penthouse features bold and unconventional design elements, including velvet-covered walls and malachite-patterned cotton on ceiling beams. Wilkinson playfully painted antique chairs green with felt-tip markers and similarly marked their silk upholstery, which he described as "so chic." The bedroom is adorned with bed-curtains edged in pearls and citrines, while golden brocade is applied to baseboards and moldings. Marble tabletops are painted to resemble tortoiseshell. Despite the surprising nature of some of these choices, Caldwell was reportedly pleased with the outcome. The 1,000-square-foot space is made to feel larger and brighter through the strategic use of mirrors on ceilings and walls, reflecting light from its three terraces. Caldwell's desire for the space was to create an environment reminiscent of a fashionable salon, like those depicted in Woody Allen's "Midnight in Paris," where friends could gather for dinner, music, and conversation, feeling as though they were in a warm, sophisticated haven. Wilkinson achieved this vision, effectively creating a "whole new life" for Caldwell through his design. The article then provides a detailed tour of specific rooms within the penthouse, including the drawing room, living room and bar, primary bedroom, and entertaining areas, highlighting key design features and furnishings. The drawing room showcases an emerald-green motif, Roman shades in Tony Duquette cotton for Jim Thompson Fabrics, and art by Joseph Heintz the Younger. The living room and bar area feature natural motifs like coral and leopard spots, a custom banquette, an antique table, a 19th-century Chinese Coromandel screen, art by Henri Cartier-Bresson, and a Venetian secretary repurposed as a bar with Tony Duquette dinnerware for Mottahedeh. The primary bedroom is described as an opulent aerie with golden brocade and lace, featuring a vintage mirror, Italian chest, antique lamp from the Tony Duquette collection, and custom bed and canopy with linens from E. Braun & Co. Entertaining moments are illustrated with Champagne flutes and caviar hors d'oeuvres on a malachite-painted table, Georgian candlesticks, and Tony Duquette dinnerware. #InteriorDesign #MaximalistDecor #ManhattanPenthouse #VenetianPalazzo #HuttonWilkinson #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecor #TonyDuquette #DesignInspiration

The article details the transformation of a raw, top-floor condo into a personalized home for architect Eric Liftin, founding principal of Dumbo-based MESH Architectures, and his wife, Elizabeth Schmidt. Located in the Columbia Street Waterfront district, the seven-story building, which was under construction in 2012, attracted the couple primarily due to its panoramic harbor views. After selling their Manhattan apartment, Liftin and Schmidt discovered the building a few blocks south of Brooklyn Bridge Park, leading them to purchase the 1,650-square-foot penthouse in an unfinished state. The raw condition of the penthouse allowed for complete customization, as it was delivered with concrete floors, no ceiling, no partitions, and no fixtures or finishes. Liftin largely maintained the developer's intended layout, which included a central entry opening into a spacious living room, a kitchen at one end, two bedrooms for their teenage children beyond the kitchen, and a master suite positioned as a private wing on the opposite side of the main living area. The apartment also features a small terrace off the living room and a staircase leading to a 450-square-foot roof deck. The expansive windows, particularly those with western exposure, offer spectacular river views, which became the central focus of the interior design. To complement the dominant views, the furnishings were deliberately kept simple, with many pieces being repurposed from the couple's previous residences. A conscious decision was made to forego a television to avoid competing with the natural panorama; instead, a projection screen can be deployed in front of the window facing a large, felt-covered David Design sofa. Liftin's custom design elements include a G-shaped kitchen, which, similar to a U-shaped layout, incorporates an additional counter space. He integrated a unique lighting system using LED tape strips into the kitchen design. The open configuration of two kitchen walls ensures an unobstructed sightline towards the harbor and the Manhattan skyline. Another innovative solution implemented by Liftin was lining the roof bulkhead structure with bookshelves. This addressed the challenge of limited wall space for art and books due to the numerous windows, creating a functional and visually interesting ascent to the roof terrace. The rooftop terrace has become a favored spot for sunset viewing, offering a dynamic and ever-changing display. The article also highlights specific design choices, such as sculptural 'pipe lights' designed by MESH, made from plumbing pipes with incandescent tubular bulbs, and Moroccan encaustic tiles from Ann Sacks laid around a Malm freestanding fireplace from Design Within Reach. The kitchen features clean-lined fiberboard cabinetry with a white lacquer finish from Nobilia, a German kitchen manufacturer, utilizing finger notches instead of hardware. The countertop is Carrara marble, and the range is from NXR. LED lighting strips further enhance the kitchen's aesthetic and functionality. The master bedroom incorporates bookshelves and storage to delineate sleeping and home office zones. Glass sliders at the apartment's entrance lead to a small outdoor terrace. The stairwell to the roof terrace features whimsical bird wallpaper from Trove, and the balcony railing is an improvised design using climbing rope from REI, reinforcing the unique and personalized nature of the architect's home. #ArchitecturalDesign #PenthouseLiving #WaterfrontViews #BrooklynRealEstate #CustomInteriors #ModernKitchen #RooftopTerrace #SpaceSavingSolutions #LEDLighting

The Private Brussels Residence features an innovative design by architect Philippe Samyn and botanist Patrick Blanc, located on the outskirts of Brussels. This four-story house is distinguished by its comprehensive integration of vegetation, covering three of its facades and its entire roof. The project, which took eight years to construct with an additional year dedicated to refining plant selection, represents Patrick Blanc’s first opportunity to envelop an entire house in vegetation, including the rooftop. The residence serves as both a home and workplace for a cinematographer and his family. The design philosophy centers on creating privacy and a natural aesthetic on the north, east, and south elevations, which are adorned with curved, vegetated facades. In contrast, the west facade is entirely glass-walled, providing extensive views and exposing the interiors of the ground, first, and second floors. The initial concept for the vegetated facade involved ivy and a patinated copper roof, but it evolved to incorporate a diverse selection of exotic plants chosen by Blanc, extending seamlessly to cover the roof. Construction involved a standard process for vertical gardens, utilizing scaffolding to install a metal structure, attach PVC panels, staple irrigation fabric, and set up a hydroponic irrigation system before planting. The same methodology was applied to the green roof. Patrick Blanc carefully curated numerous plant species to suit the lush, semi-circular facade, considering sun exposure patterns and microclimates. The plant palette for the rooftop was more selective, primarily featuring Aubrieta, Cerastium, Delosperma, Iberis, and Sedum. The house also incorporates a sustainable water management system, collecting rainwater from the rooftop edges for irrigation, supplemented by a well, with any runoff being recycled. The interior layout includes the entry hall, a family room, and a kitchen on the street level, an existing small house incorporated into the design. The living room and stairway are part of a new extension. The second floor accommodates the master bedroom with its bathroom, along with five children’s rooms and sanitary facilities. These children's rooms are designed with mezzanines protected by textile netting, leading to the glass-walled facade. The vegetated roof spans approximately 360 square meters (3,875 sq ft), and the living vertical garden wall covers about 2,100 sq ft. This project highlights a significant advancement in residential green architecture, showcasing how a private residence can be transformed into a living ecosystem. The collaboration between architecture and botanical design creates a unique aesthetic and potentially offers environmental benefits such as improved insulation and biodiversity. The Private Brussels Residence has been featured in various publications, including dezeen magazine, designboom, and AECCafe.com, and was notably on the cover of the 2012 Greenroofs & Walls of the World™ 12 Month Wall Calendar. Patrick Blanc's work on this residence is also documented in his book, "The Vertical Garden: From Nature to the City." #GreenArchitecture #VerticalGarden #GreenRoof #SustainableDesign #PatrickBlanc #PhilippeSamyn #BrusselsResidence #BotanicalDesign #EcoFriendlyHome

This article offers a tour of a modern contemporary three-bedroom condo located in Tanah Merah. The unit, spanning 895 sqft internally and 1,100 sqft when including the airspace, has undergone significant layout changes and design enhancements by The Local Project, transforming it into a permanent residence for the homeowner and their family. Upon entering the unit, a sleek grey shoe cabinet and a mirror are featured, designed for practical use. The living space prioritizes privacy and incorporates dark carpentry and LED strips, complemented by high ceilings measuring 4.3 meters. The kitchen follows an open-concept design, equipped with black countertops and walnut laminates, which align with the home’s overall aesthetic. The living room includes a dark grey wood laminate TV console and a two-seater sofa. A balcony extends from the living area, providing space for alfresco dining and views. Integrated storage solutions are strategically placed throughout the home to maximize functionality. A notable feature is the mezzanine level, accessed via a vertical trap door, which serves as a helper’s room and offers views. The son's room is designed with a pullout bunk bed and a study table, and features Escher-inspired wallpaper. In the master bedroom, an elevated study platform is incorporated to provide a separate workspace, accessible by stairs that also include storage. The redesign emphasizes maximizing both space and functionality, creating a stylish and comfortable home environment. The article concludes by inviting readers to connect with the interior designer for their own home design needs and to engage with the publication for further property insights or questions. #PenthouseDesign #ModernContemporary #TanahMerah #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #LuxuryLiving #CondoInterior #HomeTour #ResidentialArchitecture

This blog post highlights a $5 million penthouse loft in Tribeca, located at 58 Walker Street, showcasing its unique blend of industrial charm and modern luxury. The 2,115-square-foot duplex spans two floors and includes a generous 1,318 square feet of private rooftop space, making it suitable for both winter and summer enjoyment. The apartment, situated in a building constructed in 1869, retains much of its original character, particularly through extensive exposed brickwork. Contemporary additions include an open staircase that connects the two levels, a striking massive copper kitchen vent, and distinctive lighting fixtures. The kitchen, positioned beneath the lofted second floor, features an externally-powered indoor grill, allowing for year-round culinary activities. The main floor of the penthouse accommodates two bedrooms and two bathrooms, both offering northern views. The master bedroom is further enhanced by a spacious dressing room. The second, lofted floor is an open-plan area currently configured as a “dining loggia.” This space is equipped with a custom 100-bottle wine bin, a wine bar, a wine refrigerator, and a half bathroom, designed for entertaining. Access to the private rooftop terrace is provided via another open staircase leading from the dining loggia. The terrace offers ample room for outdoor furniture and landscaping, with panoramic views that include iconic New York City landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Woolworth Building. Interior design details include a classic bathroom with a clawfoot tub and a second bathroom featuring patterned wallpaper, adding a contemporary touch to the rustic aesthetic. Overall, the penthouse presents a balanced living environment with a wood-burning fireplace for colder months and expansive outdoor space for warmer weather, combining historical elements with modern amenities in a highly desirable Tribeca location. The property is listed by Dina Lewis and Melanie Lazenby of Douglas Elliman. #PenthouseLoft #TribecaRealEstate #LuxuryApartment #ExposedBrick #RooftopTerrace #Duplex #IndustrialChic #NYCArchitecture #WalkerStreet

Italian brand Molteni&C has completed the interior furnishing of a penthouse located within Rafael Viñoly's 432 Park Avenue skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan. The penthouse, spanning 8,256 square feet (767 square meters), features a design overseen by Molteni&C designer Matteo Nunziati. A key aspect of the renovation involves the integration of built-in wooden window seats, which frame the expansive views of Central Park and address a design challenge noted by Viñoly regarding the deep glazing and its impact on floor space. These upholstered benches are incorporated into the living room, dining area, and a bedroom, constructed from eucalyptus wood that complements the dark wooden flooring chosen for the residence. The overall interior aesthetic is characterized by simple finishes, white walls, spacious rooms, and an abundance of natural light. The design palette carefully balances dark and pale tones, with occasional accents of mint green and rusty red provided by selected furniture pieces. In the sitting area, a long, dark Breeze sofa by Nunziati is placed on a soft green rug, accompanied by two cream-colored Allure armchairs and a Trevi coffee table, also designed by Nunziati, arranged around a round red ottoman. Additional elements in the sitting area include low black tables and large artworks, though some specific pieces like a D.153.1 armchair and a D.552.2 table by Gio Ponti are mentioned as part of the furnishing but not visible in the provided imagery. The dining area, adjacent to the living room, features a marble Filigree table and dark cushioned Chelsea chairs by Rodolfo Dordoni, another designer affiliated with Molteni&C. One of the bedrooms showcases an upholstered bed frame in cream, continuing a material theme of grey and cream, and includes a sitting nook with seafoam-green chairs, an oval mirror, and round-end tables positioned in front of a window. 432 Park Avenue, a prominent feature of the New York skyline, stands at 1,396 feet (425 meters) and is recognized as one of the tallest residential buildings globally and the second-tallest structure in New York at the time, only surpassed by One World Trade Center. The skyscraper's distinctive grid-like facade is created by vertical and horizontal columns and beams of equal width. The architectural design incorporates open floors every 12 stories, serving as hollow areas to mitigate wind forces. The structural integrity is maintained by a reinforced concrete core, which also houses essential utilities like elevator shafts and mechanical services. The building encompasses 104 residential units, with Deborah Berke Partners as the overall interior designer for the project. Residents have access to a comprehensive suite of amenities, including two gyms, a lap pool, a library, a meeting room, a cinema, a children's area, and a wine shop. The penthouses, situated on floors 88 to 95, boast features such as double entrances, private elevators, underfloor heating, and advanced home automation systems. The article notes previous high-value sales within the building, including a penthouse that sold for 95 million US dollars in 2014, and another unit on the 92nd floor that received an interior overhaul by New York designer Kelly Behun, utilizing a pale color scheme to complement the Manhattan views. #MolteniC #PenthouseInterior #RafaelViñoly #432ParkAvenue #MidtownManhattan #LuxuryInteriors #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NewYorkCity

This blog post showcases a penthouse apartment located in the Lexus condominium building in Dumbo, Brooklyn, highlighting its features, design, and amenities. The penthouse, identified as Apartment 12A at 84 Front Street, is listed for $3.695 million by Douglas Elliman. It spans 2,191 square feet and includes three bedrooms, with the potential for a fourth, and 2.5 bathrooms. The property is characterized by an opulent open-plan living area, a private roof deck, and expansive views of the New York City skyline. The main living space integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas. A notable feature in this area is a six-foot-long Montego double-sided gas fireplace, providing both warmth and a visual focal point. The apartment also boasts two balconies, offering additional outdoor access and views. A floating staircase with an illuminated handrail leads directly to the private roof deck, designed to enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances and finishes, including a 13-foot-long island crafted from Calacatta marble. It features a Thermador refrigerator and dishwasher, a marble backsplash, and under-counter lighting. A bronze chandelier suspended above the island adds to the kitchen's sophisticated aesthetic. Throughout the bedrooms, amenities such as California closets, Holly Hunt sconces, and recessed lighting are installed. A Lutron smart lighting system and remote heating and cooling thermostats provide modern convenience and climate control. Solar shades are fitted across the home for light regulation and privacy. All bathrooms in the penthouse are equipped with towel heaters, enhancing comfort. The master bathroom specifically features a steam shower and its own private balcony, adding a luxurious touch to the primary suite. The private roof garden is a significant highlight of the property. Designed by Chelsea Garden Center, it features teak fencing and enclosures, timed lighting for the trees, and an automated irrigation system. A charcoal BBQ is also included, making the roof deck suitable for outdoor entertaining. This outdoor space is described as a peaceful retreat that also offers impressive city views. Additional practical features of the penthouse include an in-unit laundry room, complete with a washer and dryer, and ample closet space throughout the residence. The Lexus condominium building provides a range of amenities for its residents. These include doorman service, video security for enhanced safety, a newly updated gym, and a furnished common sun terrace. The building's location in Dumbo, a vibrant artistic neighborhood in Brooklyn, places residents within walking distance of various attractions. These include shops, landmarks such as the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and several renowned pizzerias, contributing to the desirability of the property and its surroundings. #Dumbo #Penthouse #LuxuryRealEstate #Brooklyn #LexusCondominium #SkylineViews #PrivateRoofDeck #OpenPlanDesign #DouglasElliman

In densely populated urban environments like New York City, where ground-level green spaces are scarce, rooftop gardens, terraces, and balconies present a significant opportunity to create vital green oases. With over 40,000 acres of potential rooftop space in NYC alone, these elevated areas can be transformed into private, calming retreats that offer a respite from the frenetic pace of city life. This transformation not only enhances personal well-being but also contributes to urban biodiversity and sustainability. New York-based landscape designer Dima Rumiantcev emphasizes a philosophy of boldness and celebration of available space when approaching urban gardening projects. His design process begins by understanding the client's current use of their outdoor area and their aspirations for its future use. This client-centric approach ensures that the garden design is deeply personal and reflects the homeowner's lifestyle, whether they seek a private shield from the city's hustle or an open, entertaining space that maximizes spectacular views. Rumiantcev aims to create urban gardens that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also low-maintenance, sustainable, and capable of thriving for years to come. Functional and practical considerations are integral to the design process. Lighting is crucial, as many city dwellers enjoy their outdoor spaces primarily at night. The unique challenges of urban rooftop environments, such as the US hardiness zone, sun exposure, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures, must also be meticulously accounted for. Rumiantcev, the founder of the award-winning DiMastery Studio, brings a deep understanding of horticulture and landscape architecture to his projects, combining creativity with expertise to craft stunning and sustainable gardens. Creating mindful and meditative spaces is a core aspect of Rumiantcev's vision. He views outdoor spaces as an extension of the home, offering an invaluable connection to nature in an otherwise concrete jungle. Observing plants, insects, and butterflies from one's home can provide moments of joy and relaxation, helping to alleviate daily stress and foster a sense of security and connection to the natural world. To enhance this experience, Rumiantcev often incorporates sensory elements such as vibrant colors, fragrant plants, and even edible plants like herbs, strawberries, and tomatoes, which provide a grounding connection to nature through taste and cultivation. When it comes to planting ideas for urban rooftops and terraces, Rumiantcev adopts a "thriller, filler, and spiller" strategy. The "thriller" acts as a focal point, typically a large shrub or tree, while "filler" plants add bulk and texture, and "spiller" plants cascade over the container edges, softening the overall composition. Native plants are his preferred choice due to their resilience and ecological value, but non-invasive exotic plants are also considered when necessary to achieve a desired aesthetic. Plants must be hardy enough to withstand harsh urban conditions, including frozen winters, scorching summers, and strong winds, which are common in New York City's "wind tunnels." Examples of recommended plants include resilient and long-lasting perennials like _Echinacea purpurea_ (purple coneflower) and _Agastache ‘Blue Fortune’_ (hummingbird mint), which provide color from summer to fall and attract pollinators. Ornamental grasses, such as _Hakonechloa macra_ (Japanese forest grass) and _Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Ha Ha Tonka’_ (little bluestem), are ideal for adding texture, privacy, and visual interest, especially with their seasonal color changes. For trees, the compact and hardy coral bark Japanese Maple (_Acer Palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’_) is a standout choice due to its striking foliage and ability to tolerate urban conditions. Beyond aesthetics, supporting urban wildlife is a crucial environmental benefit of rooftop gardens. Rumiantcev advises incorporating wildlife-friendly garden ideas, such as leaving flower seedheads intact and delaying cutting back grasses to provide food and shelter for beneficial insects and birds. Adding late-season, nectar-rich flowering plants supports migratory species like hummingbirds and monarch butterflies. Even small additions, such as fennel plants, can provide habitats for specific species, contributing to local biodiversity. Weight restrictions are a primary concern for rooftop gardens, and structural engineers should be consulted. Lightweight materials like fiberglass planters and natural clay pebbles at the bottom of pots can help manage weight. While container-grown plants have a limited lifespan compared to those in the ground, proper irrigation, root pruning, and regular feeding can extend their vitality. #UrbanGardening #RooftopGardens #LandscapeDesign #NewYorkCity #Biodiversity #SustainableGardening #ContainerGardening #MindfulLiving #NativePlants