NYC Townhouse – Architecture for Art Collectors
Within close proximity to NYC art galleries and acclaimed Highline park, Turett Collaborative Architects transformed this 4-story, multi-unit townhouse into a 5-story, single family residence with an exclusive open floor plan.
Townhouse architecture, often defined by a narrow width, demands a very smart use of space. Only 18 foot wide, this transformation was no exception. The challenge was amplified by a commitment to create space suited for potential art collectors who value living near west Chelsea’s famed art galleries
A two story rear extension featuring a 20′-0″ high wall of glass was the design anchor for this gut renovation.
The glass rear wall allows unobstructed views into the rear garden from both the kitchen at ground level and the second floor living room. The patio area becomes a extension interior living space. It artistically frames an urban landscape that rises above the patio and changes as day becomes night, and the winter white change to spring and summer greens and autumn gols and reds..
The living room divides into two unique spaces. Nearly 12′-0″ high ceilings offer ample wall space for the display of large scale artwork. 
Horizontal bands windows at the 4th, 5th, and Penthouse floors help to bring natural light into the stair hallways making what would otherwise be a tight space appear open and airy. The stair culminates in a penthouse which is pulled away from the front and rear facades to provide landscaped terraces with panoramic views of the midtown skyline to the north as well as Highline and Hudson River views to the west.
Kitchen and dining areas facilitate many eating experiences, from the family meal, casual entertaining and more elegant events.
At the three private living floors above the living room level, bathrooms, closets, and vertical chases “fill in” around the circulation core allowing for large full width rooms facing both north and south exposures.
The entire third floor is dedicated solely as a master suite with the master bedroom located towards the rear opening onto a landscaped terrace created by the two story double height extension.
A large walk-in closet gallery connects the bedroom to the master bathroom clad entirely in statuary marble. A glass enclosed steam shower and toilet compartment anchor once side of the bathroom with a full width vanity and mirror on the another. At the center, a free standing tub in white corian acts as the focal point for the bathing experience.
Turett Collaborative Architects (TCA) is a multi-disciplinary practice founded in 1984 by Wayne Turett. The firm is known for its creative design, frequently marked by an innovative use of natural and industrial materials. TCA’s work includes architectural design, interiors, graphics, industrial products and furniture design. In addition to traditional architectural services, TCA also provides design-build construction management team on many design projects.
- by Matt Watts
