Located in Manhattan, New York, this 167.14 m² apartment underwent a renovation led by NJ+ Arquitetos Associados, with the project signed by architect Nildo José. The intervention focused exclusively on the social areas and the kitchen, with the goal of updating the original layout and modernizing the spaces without altering the main structure of the property.
The apartment belongs to a couple with young children who approached the studio seeking solutions to better adapt the layout to their family's routine. Although the property featured large spans and generous square footage, its original configuration was not very functional. The clients also had an extensive collection of furniture — including design pieces and a grand piano — and wanted these items to be integrated into the new project.
The main design guideline was to highlight the 180-degree view of the Hudson River, making the landscape the central element of the project. The interiors were conceived as a backdrop to this view, with a contemporary and timeless approach that respects the apartment’s existing features.
The renovated areas include the foyer (24.07 m²), living room (78.61 m²), dining room (33.63 m²), and kitchen (30.80 m²). The original layout was preserved, with subtle adjustments to improve flow between the spaces. The project followed a “face-lifting” strategy — a visual refresh without major structural work. The original flooring was maintained, along with most of the infrastructure, except for a few electrical outlets added in the foyer.
Among the construction challenges, a custom wooden portal in the foyer had to be installed without interfering with the apartment’s existing sprinkler system. The solution was to adapt the supporting structure in a way that preserved the original sprinkler height. Another issue, a visible shaft between the foyer and the living room, was cleverly resolved by incorporating it into a custom wooden bookshelf, partially closed.
The interior design honors the residents’ personal collection, which includes pieces by iconic names in both national and international design. In the living room, highlights include the Nepal rocking chair by Paola Navone, the Prince armchair by Rodolfo Dordoni (Minotti), the Flap sofa by Francesco Binfaré (Edra), and artworks by Vik Muniz and Abraham Palatnik. In the second living area, standouts include the Flying Landscape sofa by DePadova, and armchairs by Carlo Mollino and Jean Gillon. The hall features a piece by Tomie Ohtake.
In the dining room, the Isay table by Isay Weinfeld (Etel) is paired with Jecker chairs by Etel Carmona and the Sarus Mobile pendant by David Weeks. In the breakfast area, the furniture includes the Devers table (All Modens), Beetle chairs (Gubi), the Diabolo pendant (Flos), and the Battista cart by Antonio Citterio (Kartell).
With a sensitive and thoughtful approach, the project reorganized the layout while preserving the apartment’s original identity and seamlessly integrating the owners’ meaningful pieces. The result is a functional and welcoming home, visually connected to Manhattan’s unique skyline.
