- Location: 345 East 81st Street, New York, NY
- Type: COOP
- Client: Private
- Architect/Interior Design/Expediting: Crown Architecture
The vision for this renovation was to transform a cramped, outdated layout into an open, highly functional space that would reflect the couple’s passion for cooking and fine wine—while also incorporating a dedicated dining area. What began as a straightforward interior upgrade quickly evolved into a complex undertaking, as Crown navigated a range of design and construction challenges, including the integration of a new powder room and a walk-in closet.
Key constraints included an immovable structural column, existing chase and piping locations, and limited space for ADA compliance. A major hurdle was the inability to cut into the floor slab, which restricted how far sanitary lines could be run from the new powder room to the existing bathroom. Additionally, the ceiling—formed by the slab of the floor above—posed difficulties for integrating modern lighting systems. Crown responded with creative solutions, sourcing ultra-low-profile lighting and modifying housings. By installing hat channels with ½-inch gypsum board, the team was able to rewire the ceiling and install sleek, high-efficiency LED high-hat fixtures.
Despite these constraints, Crown successfully brought the clients’ vision to life. Warmth and elegance flow throughout the space, thanks to DuChâteau’s Vernal Collection wood flooring. The kitchen features luxurious Carrara marble slabs for the island and countertops, statuary marble tile for the backsplash, a Rohl Fireclay Shaws farmhouse sink, and a Rohl Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet with a polished nickel side spray—all anchored by a high-end Wolf range.
The powder room is finished with Calacatta Gold marble tile and a Restoration Hardware Gramercy washstand, while the master bath exudes refinement with a custom Carrara marble vanity, Carrara marble wall tiles, statuary marble floor tiles, and Restoration Hardware’s Astoria recessed medicine cabinets. The result is a timeless, thoughtfully curated home that balances form, function, and luxury.
