History Meets Modern Luxury In A Manhattan Loft

When architect Charles Haight designed a warehouse in 1883, it’s unlikely that he would have envisioned it being transformed into 53 residential units, let alone a place where high-profile celebrities hang their hats. So what’s the draw? Likely a combo of historical provenance and luxury design, which is what attracted a young couple seeking a cozy home for their growing family.

To accommodate the couple’s desire for something less loft-like and more in keeping with a traditional apartment, designer Linda Ruderman and architect Anthony Minichetti combined the original rustic beams and high ceilings with ebonized-wood millwork and wide plank wood flooring to imbue warmth.

“The existing wood column grid drove the layout of the main living spaces and the private areas consisted of infill to create a master suite and two additional ensuite bedrooms,” explains Minichetti.

Along with furnishings swathed in wools and velvets and custom patterned rugs used to delineate the various spaces, there are special his and her features. Of the latter, Ruderman says, “We designed a blue-lacquered DJ console for him and a closet with compartments for everything for her to make their home even more personal.”

In the end, it was the thoughtful layering and attention to detail that made this historic house a home for many years to come.