A modern layout integrated with an historic restoration of a West Village townhouse

This classic New York City landmark townhouse, built circa 1900, exemplifies the beautiful typology of many old Manhattan neighborhoods. The townhouse was in relatively poor condition when purchased and in need of extensive work on both the interior and exterior.

ZH worked closely with the Landmarks Preservation Committee to reinstate the front facade to its original design. New full height parlor floor windows were reinstated as well as a historically correct door and entry. Period specific ironwork was fabricated for the front stoop and basement windows, creating an elegant façade worthy of the property.

On the interior the owners chose to restore many of the historical details, but took a more modern approach to the plan layout of each floor. New structural beams were installed in the ceilings of the basement and Parlor floors to allow for open floor plans where the depth of the townhouse is experienced from North to South. On the basement floor, a spacious dining area and kitchen opens onto the garden. The parlor floor was developed as a single space for entertaining with unobstructed views through new French doors leading out to a terrace. The master suite is located on the third floor while the fourth floor was developed as a guest room and artist’s studio. The drop ceiling of the fourth floor was removed to expose existing roof rafters, gaining over two feet in height and making a much more dramatic space.