Modern Gut Renovation of Landmark Limestone Harlem Townhouse

We worked with the owner/developer, Uptown Townhouse, to create a spacious, light-filled, and thoroughly modern two-family residence in this grand, historic, limestone Harlem  townhouse.  The building was,  quite literally, a wreck – with pre-existing unsafe building violations, no roof, and collapsed or removed floors throughout.  A full gut renovation was required with all new floor and roof  structure, completely new plumbing, electrical, heating, and air conditioning systems, as well as a new layout and all new finishes.

The front of the building needed significant work in two key areas:  the facade required extensive repair and structural reinforcement, and the original historic stoop had been removed along with all the others along the row when the 8th Avenue Subway Line was built.  Our experience with the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission allowed the owner to get the stoop and facade restored quickly, with a minimum of bureaucratic headaches.

Having a completely blank canvas  to work with on the interior, the owner wanted a modern loft-like space more conducive to contemporary living. We created an elegant, minimal set of spaces with a dramatic sculptural stair day-lit from above – maximizing natural light and creating a spatial anchor for the home.  A generous roof deck atop the residence allows commanding views of Historic Harlem and the skyline Downtown.