For our distinguished clients—a dynamic couple stepping into a new chapter of their lives—the move from a sprawling New Jersey home to the heart of the city was an exciting opportunity to simplify, downsize, and embrace their next phase.
With their youngest child now off to college, they sought a chic urban sanctuary, one that would serve as both a peaceful retreat and an epicenter for enjoying the vibrant city lifestyle.
Project Scope & Challenges
Downsizing from a suburban home to a sleek Upper West Side abode came with its own unique host of challenges. The mission? To create a space as stylish as it is practical, one that embraces city living while cocooning our clients in luxury.
Maximizing storage in an apartment where every square inch counts was no small feat. Every design element—from interior architecture, to the color palette, to built-in storage solutions—had to work together to keep the space organized and visually expansive. You know I love a challenge…
Warm & Personal Entryway
Upon entering, the entryway immediately sets the tone for the entire apartment. The custom-designed console, complete with a multitude of drawers, offers an elegant yet practical solution for stowing shoes and outerwear. It’s the perfect blend of everyday utility and bespoke design.
The hand-painted gold ribbon wallpaper, a client favorite, introduces a luxurious touch with its fluid, organic motion. It creates a captivating atmosphere that beckons you further into the space.
As you follow the ribbon down the hall, more personal touches begin to emerge. Oversized mosaic art from our clients’ incredible collection blends beautifully with the neutral palette, while the texture adds depth and visual intrigue—elevating the entry from simple to unforgettable.
Chic & Inviting Living Room
This living room is the epitome of city chic, effortlessly blending bespoke details with opulence. To frame the city views, the corner sectional boasts a cut-out that backs up to the expansive window, inviting in more of the urban landscape and adding a contemporary touch. Steel blue throw pillows and an accent chair provide a bold contrast to the otherwise neutral palette.
The custom-built entertainment center, designed with concave fluted detailing and sliding doors, takes center stage, infusing the space with texture, dimension, and an element of surprise.
When the doors are pulled to the left, the large TV disappears, revealing a stunning record player and four drawers of vinyl records—perfect for impromptu DJ sessions, a hobby our client thoroughly enjoys. When the TV is on, the DJ area retreats, but in true DHNY style, the bar remains accessible, ensuring the room is always ready for entertaining.
A key design request was a fire feature, something the clients missed from their suburban home. While a traditional fireplace wouldn’t work, we added a stunning electric fireplace nestled just below the TV. So realistic, it radiates the warmth and charm of a traditional hearth, with no interruption from the sliding doors. Win, win.
And then, there’s the pièce de résistance: the mirrored wall…
Behind the sofa, antiqued mirrors reflect the cityscape back into the apartment, visually expanding the room and connecting it to the outdoors. While not a feature I typically gravitate toward, in this space, the reflection injects an unexpected dimension, elevating the room far beyond the ordinary. It’s a striking balance of sophistication and whimsy—an “a-ha!” moment that transforms the entire living room.
Refined & Relaxed Dining Room
Moving into the open-concept dining area, refined elegance meets the ease of entertaining. Bathed in natural light, this thoughtfully designed space flows effortlessly with the connected living area while still maintaining its own level of intimate charm. It’s the perfect setting for both sophisticated dining and relaxed social gatherings.
A striking chandelier — part sculptural art, part lighting — acts as the crowning jewel. Inspired by the interconnected forms found in nature, the Branching Bubble chandelier by artist Lindsey Adelman adds a healthy dose of glamour to the space. With brass structural elements and hand-blown glass fixtures, the chandelier casts a warm glow over this stunning walnut dining table.
More than just a space to eat, this dining area embodies the essence of contemporary living—mixing clean yet exceptional design with a relaxed atmosphere where conversation and connection flow.
Sleek & Polished Kitchen
From clean-lined white oak cabinetry to pristine countertops, every detail in this culinary haven was carefully chosen to elevate the space into a realm of modern luxury. The minimalist aesthetic fosters a serene atmosphere, allowing both beauty and practicality to shine through.
Stunning marble acts as a statement piece as it travels from the countertops to the backsplash, drawing the eye and adding movement to the space. The island offers a visual anchor and natural separation from the open concept living areas while also serving as a space for quick meals, casual conversation, or easy entertaining.
The sleek, geometric chandelier above the island adds a touch of poise. Made to order by hand, the linear lighting provides a beautiful ambiance for our clients’ every mood. Tucked underneath the island, classic white oak upholstered barstools featuring a gently curved silhouette act as the perfect spot to perch for morning coffee or chat with the cook.
Whether preparing a quiet dinner or hosting friends and family, this kitchen provides the perfect backdrop for culinary creativity and socializing—all while exuding the quiet luxury that defines this entire apartment.
The Verdict
From the custom storage solutions to the bespoke furnishings and unique personal touches, every element of this penthouse crafts a thoughtful, intentional living experience like no other. The result is a chic, city-centric sanctuary that reflects our clients’ style, offering relaxation, entertainment, and everything in between for this new chapter in their lives.
Whether you’re designing a haven in the city or a retreat in the suburbs, we’d love to treat you to a concierge-level experience—helping to craft your vision and elevate it to new heights. Inquire with us here to book an introductory call with our team.
Photography Credit: Will Ellis Photography
