Railroad apartment layout dilemma

7 years ago

Hi, I posted this question in the GardenWeb Kitchen forum since I am a long time user there, but was browsing around today and discovered this forum, and it seems like my question might fit here better since it's not about just the kitchen (yet).

We are planning to remodel an old railroad style apartment in New York City, and having a hard time choosing a layout before we start talking to architects, engineers, contractors, etc. The apartment is very long and narrow so no layout will be perfect and we're trying to compromise with the attributes that will be most useful to us most of the time.

Current layout:

Remodel Floorplans · More Info

The apartment is on the ground floor with an open basement below so relocating plumbing and gas is not as restricted as on the higher floors.

Most other apartments in the same line have moved the kitchen to the middle of the apartment, added a master bathroom and taken over the abandoned air shaft on the left:

Remodel Floorplans · More Info

Option 1: Interior "U" kitchen

This is probably the easiest layout since plumbing is all in place from units above, but we're not sure that we'll be happy having the kitchen so separate from the living area.

Remodel Floorplans · More Info

Option 2: Open kitchen

This layout requires moving the existing bathroom and putting the kitchen in its place. Unfortunately it also requires shrinking the living room, the kitchen peninsula has the sink and dishwasher and can be used as a breakfast area. To compensate for this, we could use a partition wall for the guest bedroom that can be kept open when not in use.

Remodel Floorplans · More Info

Option 3: Galley kitchen

This layout would move the kitchen further back allowing a small space to be used as a dining area. The downside is that the guest bedroom/home office is small (7' x 11') and windowless. This may affect resale (not sure we care but it's something to consider), since the other 2 options provide 2 proper bedrooms and this one doesn't, but it gives us the most "living" space to use on a daily basis.

95+% of the time the second bedroom will be used as a home office in all options, and without a bed (we're thinking a sofa bed or wall bed for guests).

The window in the front (left side) faces the street. The apartment spans the entire length of the building and the back (right side) has a fence, against the back yard of another building.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

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Comments (3)

PRO
2M Architecture
7 years ago
Congrats on getting started on your house project. The railroad form makes for a very challenging and potentially exciting project. The ideas you mentioned all make sense from a functional perspective and ultimately only you will be able to decide which set of compromises work best for you.

At the beginning of your note, you mentioned that you were trying to select the layout before you selected your Architect. My suggestion is that you get your Architect on board and review your ideas with them. A good Architect will be able to help you focus your thoughts and priorities and blend them with the technical knowledge, understanding of the existing structure, codes and budget that may also be important influences on the final design.

You are off to a good start. Get your Architect and let them help you craft a great home!!

Marc A, Lindsell, Architect
ftmiamibeach thanked 2M Architecture
Denise Marchand
7 years ago
I agree with 2M Architects to get an architect involved from the start, not only for codes, structure and budget, but also clearing your reno with the building.

I have friends in this exact layout in NY and one thing I can say is that everyone is very jealous of their backyard! Option #3 with the galley kitchen seems the most functional use of space. It keeps the sleeping areas private and on one side of the apartment and the living on the other. Also access to the backyard directly from the kitchen is so convenient, as you won't have to zigzag through the apartment to entertain and it doesn't isolate the cook.

You also have the option to have a luxurious large sectional if you want. Again, leaving the existing bathroom in the same location is perfect for overnight and visiting guests.

I never thought I would like a "U" kitchen tucked away in the center, but I know someone who did this successfully. Of course, he never cooks, so it's a very beautiful coffee bar!

I, myself, have my desk under the window facing out, but while at my computer, I never, ever, look outside. Having an office nook with a murphy wall bed works for all scenarios.

Take a look at Resource Furniture's fantastic bed systems, especially "Ulisse Desk" and "LGM". Resource Furniture is also located in NYC.

http://resourcefurniture.com/product-category/product-collections/transforming-furniture/queen-transforming-bed-systems-transforming-furniture/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAa6bOWB8qY

Good luck with your renovation!
ftmiamibeach thanked Denise Marchand
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ftmiamibeach
Original Author
7 years ago
Sorry about not checking back. We decided to go with the galley kitchen and hired an architect who is now drafting the plans for approval.

Thanks Denise for the Resource Furniture recommendation! We went to their show room and loved their stuff, although it's pricey, we got a lot of ideas that we can use whether we buy from them or not.