uRED Architecture

Extensive renovation of a 2,500 sq. ft., one-bedroom residence in a building overlooking Central Park. The project is based on a nearly archeological unveiling of all existing structural elements and building systems The original 3 unit layout had served as the starting point for the creation of an open, free-flowing space that establishes a clear visual and spatial relationship with the spectacular vista it overlooks. A loft - albeit a low one, given its scant 8.5 foot ceiling - but with a view.

The new layout is based on a dialogue between the dominant grid established by the beams, and the liberated geometry provided by the walls' fragmented planes and built-in cabinetry. These faceted surfaces are composed of dual materials and follow the Cartesian dictate of the building grid, yet still create a free spatial flux. The open, dynamic space is reinforced by the use of glass in all its permutations, from rich glass terrazzo-like floor tiles, to sandblasted mirrors and glass panes, and to colored glass mosaics and clear glass. The new and extant materials create a full palette of textures and sensations, ranging from cool to warm, so as to recall Central Parks' myriad changes through all four seasons.

The central brick wall that houses the fireplace chimneys is the anchor of the residence. This massive wall has heretofore impeded fuller integration of the combined space. By stripping it down to its bare essentials the wall becomes a connector rather than a divider, anchor of the home, repository for its memories and artwork, and a key light source. When approached from the main entrance, the wall fades into a split-screen divider of the Park's panorama, drawn in the living room and kitchen/dining areas just above the tree lines.

Opening onto the panoramic main space is a funnel-shaped vestibule that reinforces the outdoor perspective as one enters. The somberly dark, polished glass floor is backdrop to a faceted wall of iridescent sandblasted mirror glass and recessed lighting. The wall exposes the space to visitors with a grand gesture, at the same time concealing the private domain behind.

The master bathroom is located in the center of the apartment, as dictated by the location of the utility lines. It opens onto a view of the park by means of a motorized-shade window overlooking the living room from the raised whirlpool tub/steam room enclosure. The concepts of private and public domain in the residence become blurred, establishing a spatial continuity from the Park to the interior. The subtle light to dark shading of the glass mosaic tiles of the walls on one side of the bathroom are reflected in the faceted mirrored planes on the opposite side, thus placing the bather in a kaleidoscopic whirlpool. The ephemeral qualities of water and steam are reinforced by the materials, light surfaces and fixtures.

Concealed behind the rigid vestibule wall is the intimate refuge of the master bedroom. Warm furniture textures and yellow/orange carpeting complement the soft, amorphous layout of the enclosing walls. Above the bed, a cloud of copper wire cloth is sprinkled with orange indicator lights, creating a low-tech starry-night canopy.