Home tour: Industrial chic meets family comfort in this light-filled New York City loft

Straight away, McGovern recognised that lofts often pose some limitations to create rooms with access to windows and natural light, and the full-time residence’s original layout with one bedroom and two baths is no different.

“However, the unit narrowed in the back for a courtyard and contained eastern exposure windows which proved beneficial to explore several layouts,” he elaborates. 

“So, we worked with architect Eugene Khananov to arrive at a thoughtful layout that ensured all rooms had access to natural light and were visible within the generous common space so they were not boxed in.”

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The new floorplan incorporated three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a home office and a “suburban-sized” laundry room–all of which met the homeowners’ functional needs. 

The design journey commenced after that, “with a dedication to preserving the gallery-like allure of this former artist’s loft, infusing it with a contemporary twist that melded the diverse cultural heritage of its inhabitants,” says McGovern.

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The interior designer drew inspiration from Francesca’s Manhattan upbringing, and her love for the loft’s spacious atmosphere, for a neutral backdrop that allowed the loft’s inherent artistry to take centre stage.

Timeless black interior doors and white trims provide an airy canvas for the space, whereas abandoning the original, uneven wood flooring, European white oak floors were fitted throughout the home.

“We curated the space carefully, keeping it streamlined and uncluttered to ensure each piece–be it a unique light fixture, statement furniture, or cherished object–could be noticed and appreciated,” he adds. 

Additionally, in a nod to Mateo’s Peruvian roots, accents inspired by the enchanting landscapes of Peru were woven into the interior design: soothing olive greens evoke lush valleys, while touches of gold pay homage to the Andean treasures, adding warmth and sophistication to the monochromatic canvas.

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Upon entry into the apartment via a key-locked elevator, the light-filled space draws one in with its 10-foot high ceilings and exposed timber columns and ceiling beams, stripped of its many layers of paint, and stain-tinted to tone down the original orange tone of the wood.

Added during the remodel, the ethanol fireplace with its eco-friendly roman clay finish grounds the living area, where Francesca showcases her grandfather’s table lamp that was converted from an old wallpaper printing reel block.

“Young families, especially those in the city, face a challenge to strike a balance between a stylish well appointed space, but one that can withstand the wear and tear that young children can bring to a place,” comments McGovern, who kid-proofed the living space with performance upholstery, such as a custom cut polypropylene indoor/outdoor sisal rug that can withstand heavy foot traffic.

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The open-plan layout flows into the “play” zone, where a travertine-topped built-in console in guacamole sits on one end, while on the other hangs Andy Warhol’s Fax Art from the 1970s Stockholm Portfolio, a treasured wedding gift from the bride’s parents.

Anchoring the spacious area is a billiards table, an ode to the couple’s love for billiards, “reflecting their nostalgia for the game, a continued date night activity,” says McGovern. 

He continues: “Moreover, the ample void space required for playing pool allowed plenty of room for the children to run freely, fostering a dynamic environment that accommodated both leisure and play.”

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In the dining-slash-kitchen area, a range hood and island with sleek, fluted detailing decorate the space, alongside a vintage Roche Bobois dining table inherited from Francesca’s family.

“We worked with the architect and general contractor to take some additional steps, should the client later want to relocate the kitchen to the common space, and use the existing kitchen to create a fourth bedroom and bathroom,” explains McGovern.

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In line with McGovern Project’s approach to city spaces, they designed a multifunctional and stylish area for the laundry room that doubles as a climate-controlled wine storage area, featuring a backgammon floor, elegant walnut cabinetry, and a sleek travertine counter. 

“It symbolised an amenity commonly found in homes, but often absent in city apartments,” explains McGovern. “It’s not only practical for day-to-day use, but also serves as a sophisticated spot for entertaining, easily transforming into a bar setup when needed.”

Tucked in a corner next to the entry elevator was an under utilised niche made for an old, oversized AC handler. 

Since the newly installed air handler required less vertical space, it provided an ideal spot for a minimalist home office niche with custom walnut millwork bathed in natural light. 

Meanwhile, a collection of the homeowners’ existing artworks line the wall along the hallway that leads to the private quarters, where bespoke details and thoughtful touches abound, each weaving a narrative that resonates with its occupants.

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In the primary suite, Chris Benz’s wallpaper serves as the perfect backdrop for the eclectic furnishings, ensuring that every element stood out amidst the refined elegance.

While the children’s rooms are whimsical havens of imagination and play, where each carefully selected piece invites exploration and creativity: the daughter’s room features colourful splats on the ceiling, while a leather sofa bed embellishes the son’s safari-themed nursery.

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