Rauch Architecture was hired to renovate the interior of an 1820s Townhouse in Tribeca. Truly a unique site, this block of townhouses on Harrison Street is the largest remaining collection of Federal Style townhouses left in NYC. While a few are in their original location, several others stood a few blocks away and were relocated to create this lovely stretch of preserved history in the middle of the skyscrapers and development downtown.
Though the site was unique, the existing house was set up more like a bachelor pad when our clients approached us about creating a space for their growing family. A small “wet bar” served as the kitchen, a few cramped, minimal bathrooms provided spaces for showering only, and the entire top floor worked well as an open art studio. Needless to say, there was no functional space for kids playrooms, bath time, or “sippie cup” storage.
Our first move was to relocate the kitchen to the front of the house, opening up the rest of the floor for a more generous combined open living and dining space. We were able to re-use the existing non-functioning chimney as a space for the range hood to vent. Custom cabinetry doubled the amount of storage and cooking space available.
Custom details were included to ensure that every single square inch was maximized. Even shelves for decoration and spice racks were fit into the last few inches available facing the kitchen behind the coat closet.
In the loft space up under the pitch of the roof (a hallmark of the Federal Style townhouse), we created a playroom with a skylight and a vaulted ceiling, giving access to two different bedrooms at the front and rear of the house. Even the HVAC system received a makeover with custom linear diffusers disguising the source of heating and cooling for the rooms.
The bathrooms were reimagined with kids in mind. Tubs – a necessity with the little ones – were incorporated, as well as a kid-friendly vanity setup and fun wallpapers bring a sense a playfulness to the entire space.
By introducing thoughtful, historical, and playful new elements that resonate with the existing space, we were able to create a home that simultaneously feels modern and traditional, a fitting complement to an iconic landmark.
Photos by Alexander Severin Architectural Photography