Step Inside a Historic Manhattan Apartment Transformed by Design Star Ryan Lawson

The article details the transformation of a 2,200-square-foot condominium in Chelsea, Manhattan, into a flexible and aesthetically cohesive living space, orchestrated by Lee Mindel and Peter Shelton of Shelton, Mindel & Associates. The client, a Minneapolis-based CEO of an international investment firm, sought a minimalist yet sophisticated pied-à-terre that could accommodate both his solitary living and visits from his two young sons. The apartment, originally a three-bedroom unit in a converted early 20th-century office building, presented several design challenges, including an intrusive architectural layout with aggressive walls and a lack of flow, failing to capitalize on its significant views of the Hudson and East rivers and the lower Manhattan skyline. Shelton and Mindel's approach focused on "undoing" architectural elements to create an expansive, unified space. They began by removing a wall between the living room and an adjacent narrow bedroom, allowing for a seamless flow between the living/dining area and the open-plan kitchen. To further enhance simplicity and openness, a uniform ceiling height was implemented, and closet doors were redesigned to appear more loft-like. Sliding wood panels were installed between the master bedroom and the guest room/children's room to provide flexibility. Radiator cabinets were integrated into the design under the windows, and large-scale custom rugs, along with raw-silk draperies, were used to define and refine the room's dimensions, giving it a sharp, clean finish. A key aspect of the design philosophy was to anchor the rooms with robust modernist furniture, selected for its quality and ability to impart a sense of order, structure, and strength without overwhelming the space. The furniture, sourced from various European countries and the United States, includes distinctive pieces such as a 1920s Fritz Henningsen leather armchair, a 1940s Fontana Arte coatrack, a 1950s Jean Prouvé console, and a 1950s Carlo Scarpa sconce in the entrance hall. The living room features a 1950s Poul Kjaerholm daybed, Børge Mogensen leather-and-birch chairs, and a Kjaerholm sofa upholstered in French postal cloth, alongside contemporary pieces designed by Shelton and Mindel. Art plays a significant role, with works like Richard Prince's cowboy photograph and Matthew Barney's 'Cremaster 3: Plumb Line' integrated into the living space. The dining area is furnished with a 1950s Prouvé Granito dining table and Børge Mogensen wicker dining chairs, illuminated by a 1970s Verner Panton acrylic sphere. The guest room/children's room features 1940s Prouvé compass desks and a trundle bed designed by the architects. The master bedroom includes a 1940s Jacques Adnet armchair, a 1950s Charlotte Perriand bedside table, and a custom headboard of natural hemp and black horsehair, complemented by a 1940s Josef Frank armoire and Richard Prince's photographic triptych. The design aimed to create a tranquil yet dynamic environment, where the volume, light, and carefully curated furnishings coalesce to give the condominium a strong sense of place, a rarity in condo conversions, achieving a harmonious balance that was met with universal approval. #InteriorDesign #ModernistFurniture #ManhattanApartment #ArchitecturalRenovation #SheltonMindelAssociates #LuxuryLiving #ContemporaryArt #SpacePlanning #CustomDesign

The 2025 Real Simple Home event is set to feature two distinct residential spaces in One Park Row, downtown Manhattan: a four-bedroom penthouse suite and a two-bedroom “DIY Annex.” These spaces have been transformed by a team of ten designers, including a celebrity, a group of content creators, and an organizing expert. This initiative marks the first time Real Simple has showcased two apartments for its annual home event. The penthouse suite has been collaboratively designed by several notable figures. Alvin Wayne, founder of Alvin Wayne Interiors, is responsible for the primary suite, bringing his signature blend of modern and vintage elements. Jason Saft, owner of Staged to Sell Home, has taken on the open-plan living room, dining room, and kitchen, leveraging his extensive experience in real estate staging. Drew Barrymore, the renowned actor, producer, talk show host, and business owner, contributed her design aesthetic to a dedicated “feel-good room.” Noz Nozawa, a San Francisco-based designer known for her vibrant, layered interiors, applied her style to the penthouse's wrap-around patio. Alexandra Gater, a Toronto-based stylist and home decor expert, focused on the home's second-floor den, emphasizing budget-friendly yet beautiful design. Candace Griffin, founder of Candace Mary Interiors, designed a children's room, incorporating timeless elegance with modern touches. Mandy Cheng, owner of Mandy Cheng Design, created a versatile guest bedroom/office space. The “DIY Annex” apartment was conceptualized and executed by three prominent content creators. Drew Michael Scott, known for his Lone Fox brand, designed the living room, showcasing his expertise in DIY projects and interior design. Mallory Fletchall, a Brooklyn-based content creator and owner of Reserve Home, contributed her ideas to the annex, drawing from her experience with timeless interiors and vintage finds. Valeria Jacobs, the creative mind behind Rebecca and Genevieve, brought her unique DIY perspective to the space, informed by her passion for interiors and content creation. Rounding out the team is Tyler Moore, also known as Tidy Dad, an organizing expert who ensured both spaces were optimized for storage and functionality, offering practical solutions for a well-ordered home. This comprehensive design effort aims to offer a wide range of decorating ideas, organizational strategies, and inspiring transformations for both luxury and budget-conscious homeowners and renters. The project brings together diverse design philosophies and practical approaches to create engaging and functional living environments. #RealSimpleHome #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ManhattanApartments #DesignerShowcase #DIYHomeDecor #CelebrityDesign #HomeOrganization #LuxuryInteriors

The article discusses the significant impact of proper lighting on the appearance and perceived value of New York City apartments and brownstones, particularly for those looking to sell or renovate. It emphasizes that updating lighting fixtures or even just bulbs can instantly refresh a space, making it appear more modern and appealing. Real estate brokers and stagers frequently adjust lighting in listings, as poor lighting can date a property, while bright, well-chosen illumination can lead to higher sales prices. The piece highlights that effective lighting doesn't necessarily require a large budget, with many stylish and affordable options available from retailers like Wayfair and Overstock. Lighting is categorized into two main types: functional (ambient) and statement lighting. A balanced approach incorporating both is recommended, using various fixtures like recessed lighting, pendants, and table lamps to create a complete and versatile ambiance. This layering of light sources allows for different moods and helps define spaces in open floor plans, such as using a floor lamp to create a reading nook. The article delves into the pros and cons of recessed lighting, noting its ability to provide consistent illumination but also its limitations in pre-war and post-war buildings due to ceiling height constraints. While some buyers prefer removing recessed lights for more decorative fixtures, dimmed recessed lighting is considered a valuable investment for both daily living and resale, offering flexibility in brightness. Alternative ambient lighting options include track lighting, floor lamps, and sconces, with sconces gaining popularity for their functional and sculptural qualities, especially in situations where ceiling installations are difficult. For spaces where ceiling or wall modifications are not feasible, the article suggests various solutions that do not require extensive wiring. Floor lamps are a practical choice, particularly in living areas without existing ceiling lights. Plug-in, pin-up pendants are another versatile option, available across various price points, and can be strategically swagged from ceilings to create an intentional design element. Plug-in wall lamps and sconces also offer easy installation and space-saving benefits. The entry area is highlighted as a prime location for statement lighting, as it sets the initial tone for the entire home and can significantly impress buyers. Similarly, a striking fixture over the dining table is considered essential for defining the dining area in an open floor plan and is often a key selling point. The article also provides examples of using chandeliers or LED ring fixtures to fill vertical space in living areas with double-height ceilings, while more subtle track lighting is recommended for smaller alcove apartments with lower ceilings. Stairwells, often overlooked, are presented as opportunities for dramatic, double-height light fixtures that enhance ceiling heights and connect different floors visually. In the kitchen, a combination of functional and welcoming lighting is crucial, with island pendants being a cost-effective way to add both style and utility. Coordinating lighting in single spaces by using consistent materials or palettes is advised to ensure cohesion. Creative solutions like integrating lighting into custom millwork or using LED panels to mimic windows in interior spaces are also discussed as ways to improve aesthetics and functionality. Finally, the article touches upon updating bedroom lighting, noting the growing trend of bedside dropped pendants for a minimalist, hotel-like feel and improved light quality for sleep. For children's rooms, imaginative lighting such as customized pendant shades can create a playful atmosphere. The importance of swapping out traditional bulbs for LEDs and maintaining a consistent color temperature throughout the home is emphasized. Investing in smart home systems like Lutron or Crestron for integrated lighting control is also suggested, along with the rising popularity of human-centric lighting systems that adapt to circadian rhythms. The article concludes by addressing the negotiation of light fixtures during a sale, advising sellers to stipulate exclusions early to avoid disputes, as buyers generally expect attached fixtures to remain with the property, especially in high-end transactions. #NYCRealEstate #ApartmentRenovation #HomeStaging #InteriorLighting #DesignTips #SellingNYC #HomeImprovement #ArchitecturalLighting #SmartHome

This article highlights the Harlem townhouse at 1989 Madison Avenue, formerly owned by Nina Persson, lead singer of The Cardigans, and her husband, Nathan Larson. They purchased the six-bedroom, four-bath home in 2007 and resided there until 2015 before moving to Malmö, Sweden. The Cardigans' hit song "Lovefool" is noted for its enduring popularity, appearing in various films and TV shows. Known as The Harlem House, the brownstone has been meticulously updated and renovated, now functioning as a rental configured into two family units. It boasts over 4,200 square feet of interior space and an additional 700 square feet of private outdoor space. The five-level home's current layout is detailed across its various floors. The garden level features a modern open-plan kitchen and dining area, a rear bedroom, and a flagstone-paved enclosed back garden. The parlor level houses a large living room at the front and a primary bedroom suite with a private terrace at the rear. The third floor includes another bedroom and a spacious open-plan great room with dining, lounging areas, and a contemporary kitchen. The top floor offers a second primary suite, a smaller bedroom, and a media room. The basement provides a fitness area, laundry facilities, and three storage units. A notable characteristic of this townhouse, contrasting with many New York City townhomes, is its abundance of natural light, facilitated by oversized windows that illuminate the central spaces. Architectural and design elements throughout the home include three fireplaces with distinctive mantels, both exposed and painted brick walls, high ceilings, intricate moldings, extensive built-in storage, wide doorways, solid wood doors, custom kitchen cabinetry with opaque glass, and hardwood floors, some featuring an attractive herringbone pattern. The bathrooms are designed with style, incorporating clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, wainscoting, subway tiles, black-and-white tile floors, and exposed radiators. Unit 1 is a two-bedroom, two-bath duplex, easily convertible into a three-bedroom layout, with access to the basement and two private outdoor spaces. Its new kitchen is equipped with marble countertops, an island, and top-of-the-line appliances. Unit 2, accessible via its own private stoop entrance and a restored original staircase, offers three or potentially four bedrooms, an oversized primary en-suite, a washer/dryer, and a similarly renovated kitchen featuring an island, marble countertops, and premium appliances. The surrounding Harlem neighborhood has experienced significant development, now offering numerous restaurants and retail options, including a Whole Foods and a new Trader Joe’s. The home's location is convenient, being close to the 125th Street shopping corridor and equidistant from Marcus Garvey Park and Harlem River Park. Cultural attractions in the vicinity include the Apollo Theater and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. #HarlemTownhouse #LuxuryRental #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #HarlemRealEstate #NinaPerssonHome #ArchitecturalDetails #NYCRealEstate #TownhouseLiving

This blog post highlights a meticulously renovated townhouse located at 132 West 81st Street on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Originally built in 1887 and designed by architect Edward J. Webb, the property has undergone a complete redesign by Alison Downey of Downey Interiors. Situated near Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and various shopping and dining establishments, the 7,000-square-foot home boasts six levels of luxurious living space. It features five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and four powder rooms, complemented by a range of modern amenities. The residence is distinguished by its extensive outdoor spaces, including a south-facing, bricked garden with a herringbone pattern, suitable for gardening. A significant feature is the handsomely equipped rooftop deck, offering multiple seating and dining areas, cedar fencing, new roof tiles, and provisions for water, electricity, and a sound system, designed for entertaining. Indoor amenities include an elevator, a home gym, a dedicated office, central air and heat, dual bars and laundry facilities, and comprehensive water filtration, intercom, and security systems. The home integrates Savant smart-home technology to manage built-in speakers, automated lighting, and door entry. Architectural details throughout the townhouse preserve its historical charm while incorporating modern comfort. These elements include a circular staircase, pocket doors, oak flooring, wall sconces, crown moldings, stained glass windows, and a backyard fountain. The blog post emphasizes the spacious and inviting staircase landings, suggesting them as ideal spots for relaxation. A floor-by-floor tour begins with an elegant reception gallery featuring radiant-heat stone floors in a black and white pattern, leading into a newly designed, fully custom eat-in kitchen. This kitchen is equipped with an oval-shaped island and breakfast bar, a large walk-in pantry, handcrafted wood cabinetry with task lighting, soapstone countertops, a tile backsplash, and high-end appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, a Viking six-burner range, and two ovens. The basement level contains the gym, ample storage, a powder room, and a custom laundry room with built-in cabinetry. The parlor floor is designed for entertaining, offering an open-plan layout with a spacious living room featuring a gas fireplace, a wet bar, and nearly 11-foot ceilings. French doors in the south-facing dining room open onto a balcony with a stairway leading to the backyard garden, facilitating indoor-outdoor flow for gatherings. The third level comprises two large bedrooms, one currently configured as an office, while the floor above features two more en-suite bedrooms, each with marble and tile bathrooms. The primary suite occupies the entire fifth floor, presenting a large bedroom, a custom dressing room, and a new bathroom with a separate shower and tub, and a dual sink vanity. This level also includes a wet bar with a full ice maker and an under-counter refrigerator. A notable advantage of the townhouse's location is the low scale of surrounding blocks, ensuring that the rooftop deck remains open, private, and bathed in natural light throughout the day, enhancing the property's appeal. #UpperWestSide #ManhattanRealEstate #LuxuryTownhouse #HomeRenovation #RooftopDeck #SmartHome #ArchitecturalDetails #InteriorDesign #NewYorkCity #HistoricHome