S M A Stephen Moser Architects

WEA Apartment —

WEA Apartment
New York, NY

A warren of small rooms was opened up and reconfigured to create a large living space (or great room) in an extensive renovation of this classic-six apartment on Manhattan's Upper West Side. SMA’s design challenge was to create a home for a contemporary lifestyle while retaining the graciousness of pre-war detailing. The owners, empty nesters relocating from the suburbs, wanted a peaceful oasis for the two of them that would also be a welcoming and comfortable place for family gatherings and overnight stays by their adult children.

Located on an upper floor, with a Hudson River view, the apartment, built in the early 20th century, reflected the living style of that era: the service quarters (kitchen and small maid's room with tiny bath) were tucked away from the living quarters, which consisted of a series of small rooms (living room, formal dining room, two bedrooms) that were connected by a narrow corridor. In the redesign, the living room, dining room, and corridor became a single large living space, anchored by a long open-island kitchen. A third bedroom and large bathroom with laundry facilities were carved out of the original kitchen and maid's quarters.

The apartment's original architectural detailing, including French windows opening to a Juliet balcony, and nine-foot-plus ceilings, is showcased in the redesign but updated. The woodwork and moldings are light and clean; the artisanal plaster cove ceiling that unifies the great room is a simplified reinterpretation of the original.

Project Size

1,500 sf

SMA Team

Stephen Moser, principal
Nicole Anderson, project manager

Mechanical Engineer

PA Collins, P.E.

General Contractor

Marek K. Construction

Photography

Michael Biondo