Soho in Lower Manhattan is now a well established area for loft living in New York. The Client, a young Flemish entrepreneur asked to refurbish this originally 19th century industrial loft with fantastic views of the NY skyline.

The in essence ‘male’ atmosphere of the City has been translated internally into a choice of 3 strong colours, a palette of dark woods and leather, and a rigorous layout with a day and night zone.
Surprisingly perhaps, the open plan has been divided into dedicated rooms and annexes, leaving a large living area for social occasions and entertaining. One could suggest that the jovial Flemish spirit has been reflected in this design.
The living area is characterised by a sequence of original cast iron pillars and a visible air conditioning system, completely painted out in black. The custom made furniture has been oversized and complements the large space. The dining table for example has ample space for 16 people and the high back benches screen the setting to the window behind. The seating area has been separated off with a long and low storage bench, clad in suede. The traditional focal point of the living room, the fireplace, has been replaced by a television, hidden behind a sliding screen. White walls, black stained oak parquet and large windows painted white give this space a strong identity. From the living area a corridor leads to the master bedroom and guestrooms. The master bedroom is almost Spartan in its’ layout and colours in contrast to the guestrooms, which are painted in a rich red and furnished with contrasting black and white furniture.

The apartment is characterised by a conscious spareness, with furnishings used as essential elements within the space. The strong colours and contrasts, and the pure geometric forms create a setting worthy of an updated American 1940’s crime novel.

(extract from vogue living apartments 2004)

Photography:
Alberto Piovano