For this Brooklyn loft renovation, we updated the kitchen and bathrooms. The space was overall in fine shape – not pre-war or in estate-condition – but it was a bit dated and didn't match our client’s style, which gravitated toward color and texture. To bring the loft into the 21st century, we designed the kitchen around natural elements while enhancing functionality with storage-centric built-ins.

AS MIDCENTURY MODERN AS YOU CAN GET

It quickly became apparent that midcentury modern was the prevailing aesthetic for this Brooklyn loft kitchen renovation. Some elements are more straightforwardly modern, such as the functional modular four-in-one kitchen sink that’s also a cutting board, vegetable prep station, and colander, while the patterned ceramic tiles are a classic midcentury modern motif. Custom cabinets take advantage of the naturally tall loft ceilings, with pure white Caesarstone quartz countertops to balance the design.

BUILT-INS TO LAST

Another important goal was to enhance the kitchen’s functionality through strategic built-ins that are virtually hidden into the design. A favorite is a little stand we built right into the island, containing extra outlets to charge iPhones or other devices. Custom hooks were also built into the sides of the cabinets for additional hanging storage. The pantry at one end of the kitchen is anchored by the refrigerator on the other side, opening the design up into the entire space.

GROUT BE GONE

In the master bathroom, a 5-piece, the design aesthetic took on a more decidedly modern approach. The client wanted to avoid grout, so we chose really large porcelain tiles that resemble slabs of marble. The large tiles eliminate grout for a sleek look, while the porcelain offers the luxe look of marble without the heavy-duty upkeep. To break up the veining a bit, a section of the shower wall was covered with subway tiles for clean contrast. We continued the sleek and modern look in the powder room, with natural stone onyx floor tiles bringing in a touch of visual interest.

THE COVID FACTOR

Construction on this project was set to begin at the end of March last year, so you can imagine what happened: of course, it didn’t. During the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining consistent communication with our clients became more important than ever.

In the case of this project, all the design work was completed, materials purchased, and permits pulled, so there was absolutely nothing we could do but wait. We were then and are now always committed to seeing our projects through, but the worldwide uncertainty at the time was itself a challenge. Luckily, we were able to promptly begin construction on this project in July and finished only a few months later.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS

- Modular four-in-one Julien SmartStation sink
- Custom built-ins to maximize functionality and provide additional storage
- Unique ceramic patterned tile kitchen backsplashDual vanity with a walnut finish in the master bathroom
- Wall-mounted, high-efficiency Toto toilets with automatic open-and-close lids and self-cleaning features in both bathrooms

Is a loft renovation in New York in your future? We’re experts in renovating New York Spaces, from kitchens and bathrooms in co-ops and condos to apartment combinations in managed buildings. Contact us to learn more about our approach as a design-and-build firm, where all aspects of your project are handled under the same roof.