A Pied a Terre in Manhattan

When the studio apartment across the hall from her three-bedroom unit became available, the owner of this pied-a-terre could not resist the opportunity. She had long hoped to expand her apartment by purchasing adjacent space but this seemed like a great alternative. She was looking for a place for her mother, sisters and in-laws to stay when visiting Manhattan, and a place for her college-age daughter to live when she graduated.

According to the Wall Street Journal (Nov. 7, 2013) many pied a terre buyers today are "looking for a hub for their extended family and buy as much space as their budgets allow". This apartment demonstrates that a small one bedroom or studio can be transformed into a comfortable retreat.

While many buyers may be looking for turn-key apartments, this 400 square foot unit required a gut-renovation. A wall separating the kitchen from the living area was demolished and the kitchen completely renovated with high end appliances and clean white cabinets and counters. The convenient counter seating precludes the need for a dining table. At the other end of the apartment, a closet was removed, further extending the living space and allowing the bed to be tucked into a cozy niche. Carefully placed lighting helps to both define and illuminate the apartment. Weil Friedman Architects created an open and light filled space in a formerly cramped and dark apartment. The owner wanted a modern and clean low maintenance design, and ended up with a perfect home away from home.

Weil Friedman Architects was established in 1991 and focuses on high end residential projects. The firm's work has included many New York City apartment renovations and country homes in Connecticut and the Hamptons. The office provides full architectural services from design through construction supervision and also offers interior design and decorating services. Weil Friedman's design approach is contextual, focusing on the allocation of space and the integration of design with functional requirements. An attention to detail, as well as appreciation of each client's needs has won the firm many repeat clients. See their work at www.weilfriedmanarchitects.com.