Nestled along the Brooklyn Waterfront, overlooking the East River and Manhattan Skyline, the Kent Avenue penthouse apartment is one of its kind; New York’s industrial vibe meets soft minimalism and tactile materials in this urban retreat above the vibrating city. The open plan solution is preserved and layered with thoughtful elements to define different zones, and on the sunken terrace one can take a dip in the plunge pool or simply relax and enjoy the exquisite view.
Spanning approx. 350 square meters, the Kent Avenue penthouse occupies the entire top floor of a grand building along the East River. The unique home is divided into two distinct living spaces—one designed for the privacy of the family, and the other a fully equipped guest house.
The open-plan layout of both apartments is thoughtfully layered with elements that subtly define various zones, maintaining a sense of fluidity while offering spaces for relaxation and privacy. Large floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the seamless flow between indoors and out, connecting the home to the breathtaking views of the river and Manhattan skyline as well as the lush greenery on the expansive terrace that envelopes the residence.
With its blend of modern design and tactile materials, the Kent Avenue penthouse embodies contemporary elegance and tranquility, delivering a space that feels both intimate and spacious.
Enhancing the seamless connection between indoors and outdoors, the floor-to-ceiling windows fully open to the surrounding terrace. Framed b norm archi t ect s y the stunning Manhattan skyline, the cozy atmosphere takes on a breathtaking new dimension.
A serene interior offers balance to the vibrant views outside, while soft and plush textiles create a warm and tactile home environment. norm archi t ect s The design blends organic shapes with clean lines, crafting a space that feels both soothing and stimulating.
An in-built fireplace framed by elegant Carrara marble adds a touch of luxury. Discreet hidden doors open to reveal a private TV lounge, maintaining a clean and tranquil aesthetic.
A skylight in the hallway floods the narrow space with natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere.
A bespoke kitchen crafted by Vipp features a sleek black exterior with a natural oak core, blending style and functionality. The steel tabletop adds a refined, modern touch, while the folding fronts seamlessly tuck away, norm archi t ect s optimizing space and offering versatile design options within a single kitchen.
Situated between the kitchen-dining area and the living room, a grand bookcase features a perforated steel back that permits natural light to flow through the space. The design not only preserves the connection between the areas but also delineates their distinct functions. Additionally, the bookcase serves as a showcase for the family’s treasured personal items.
Transitioning from the kitchen area, a door opens to reveal the adult suite, which encompasses an office, bedroom, walk-in closet, and bathroom. The walkway is adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame serene views of the lush greenery on the terrace. Translucent curt norm archi t ect s ains gracefully drape from end to end, softening the space's sleek materials.
The wooden bedframe, with its headboard extending all the way to the ceiling, creates an intimate alcove within the airy, open space. Thoughtfully crafted, it serves a dual purpose as a closet on the reverse side, seamlessly merging function with style.
The natural wood draws inspiration from the outdoors, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the surrounding greenery. This connection to nature brings warmth and tranquility, softening the modern design while fostering a deep sense of well-being and relaxation – transforming the room into a serene retreat.
The bathroom is crafted entirely from large grey stone slabs, with elegant silver fixtures that enhance the cool, modern aesthetic. In contrast to the warm wooden tones of the bedroom, the sharp lines of the stone create a bold, minimalist look. Soft curtains, consistent with the rest of the house, introduce a tactile element, casting beautiful shadows from the surrounding trees and greenery. Cleverly hidden storage adds to the clean, norm archi t ect s streamlined design.
The Kent Ave home occupies an entire floor, thoughtfully divided into two distinct spaces—one for the private family and the other, a fully equipped guest apartment. The guest unit offers a cozy yet spacious layout, featuring a well-appointed kitchen, a living room, a tranquil bedroom, a small office nook, a bathroom, and a toilet. Each room is designed with the same elegant style as the main apartment, ensuring a cohesive flow that feels effortlessly luxurious. Every detail, from the soft color palette to the clean lines, contributes to a sense of calm and sophistication.
Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, blurring the boundary between the indoors and the breathtaking surroundings. Beyond the windows, a large wooden deck beckons, offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan cityscape. It's a serene retreat, where urban life meets tranquil living, with every detail carefully curated for a sense of unity and calm – a perfect blend of urban energy and quiet retreat.
In the guest unit, a bespoke kitchen combines steel and wood, accented with elegant butterfly details, blending modern design with subtle craftsmanship
The guest bedroom features a minimalist bedframe that mirrors the style of the main apartment. A large window invites natural light, while a private deck enhances seclusion. Tucked behind the wall, a small desk offers a functional workspace, with a bathroom conveniently located down the hall.
Team:
Norm Architects: Architect & Partner, Peter Eland Architect, Hedda Klar Photography: Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen