NASSAU STREET LOFT

a dynamic family home inscribed in a static rectilinear footprint

Before renovation, the Nassau Street Loft was a 1,600-square-foot open shell with considerable potential. With a baby on the way, the owners asked for a transformation into well-defined, livable spaces for their growing family.

The loft now opens into a tall entry that continually expands as one moves through the space, with programmatic elements contained within ribbed birch shells that vary in height and degree of enclosure. As each shell breaks apart, it signals access to a particular space, clearly articulating its entry and boundaries. Where the shells dissipate, the public living, dining, and entry areas occupy the negative space, revealing the full extent of the loft, while the secondary playroom and kitchen occupy partial enclosures that preserve long, uninterrupted views.

Taller enclosures protect the private bedroom and bathroom areas, while storage, laundry, and mechanical spaces are discreetly concealed. Existing split-level bedrooms were redefined to take full advantage of the double-height volume. Demolition uncovered niches, recesses, original brick masonry, and even a previously hidden window, all of which the clients chose to celebrate and integrate into the renovation.

A rich material palette of walnut and stone gradually transitions to lighter Baltic birch and plaster. Old-growth walnut floors, original corrugated metal vaulted ceilings and once-plastered raw handmade brick and stone all contribute to the loft’s authenticity while expressing its history.

Location: New York, NY

Size: 1,600 sf

Status: Complete 2009

Client: Private Residence

Project Team: AG Contractors, General Contractor