Explore how Grisoro Studio retains the charm of this New York warehouse, setting the stage for a homeowner's intentional collection of exquisite art and furniture
In a world that prioritises the fast pace of modernity, this Grisoro Studio project takes a different approach: by transforming a historical space into a family’s haven. Located in the heart of the West Village in Manhattan, New York, a warehouse built in 1905 takes on a new life with this fascinating renovation.
When the design team first walked through the space with their client, they encountered a property frozen in time. Despite the extensive renovation it required, the bones of the space were promising. “The twelve-foot high ceilings and sprawling views of the village from every window were incredible,” shares Gabriela Gargano, the principal of Grisoro Studio.
The team first worked on the New York home in 2018, before stepping back in for a refresh in 2024. The throughline of their approach is a deep commitment to creating designs that endure rather than requiring constant renovation. The majority of structural elements and core materials from the original 2018 design remained amid the 2024 refresh, with updates limited to a bathroom renovation and strategic paint colour shifts.
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Above Gabriela Gargano at a Grisoro Studio project: a restored warehouse in the West Village, Manhattan, New York
The solution was elegantly created through a double-entry sequence. The first entry serves as the true threshold, followed by a second vestibule that functions as both a transitional moment and a strategic vantage point overlooking the majority of the home. This layered approach solved the privacy challenge inherent in loft living while creating an almost gallery-like procession throughout the home.
Gargano says the vestibule is her favourite space in the home, showcasing unique furniture pieces: a vintage table designed by Ignazio Gardella for Azucena and a rare Gio Ponti chair. Another notable piece is the pendant light by Apparatus, which adds a touch of playfulness and dynamism to the space.
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The home’s layout presented one of the project's most intriguing challenges. Grisoro Studio was tasked with creating distinct, purposeful zones while preserving the historic home’s inherent sense of openness and flow. The original configuration placed both the entrance and primary bathroom in areas completely devoid of natural light, a significant obstacle that required ingenuity.
From this central point, the layout unfolds according to the homeowner’s needs. Natural light fills each space, but most notably the living room. Here, guests can unwind amid organic, neutral hues while enjoying the exposed brick wall, a nod to the original warehouse’s functionality. Gargano also draws attention to the Angelo Mangiarotti coffee table, a vintage piece carved out of mondragon stone. Nearby stands a mirror by Piet Hein Eek, which fills the living room with a sense of expansiveness by reflecting more light through the space.

Above The dining room of a restored warehouse in the West Village, Manhattan, New York, designed by Grisoro Studio

Above The kitchen of a restored warehouse in the West Village, Manhattan, New York designed by Grisoro Studio

Above Exploring the open plan layout in this West Village, Manhattan, New York home designed by Grisoro Studio
The nearby kitchen balances aesthetics with functionality. Here, double doors made of steel and glass can close the kitchen, for the homeowner to create delicious meals for his guests. But the space never feels disconnected from the main entertaining areas, as the doors open for a seamless flow. The dining area features the sleekness and warmth seen throughout the home. From here, guests have glimpses into the vestibule and the nearby bedrooms.

Above The guest bedroom in a restored warehouse in the West Village, Manhattan, New York designed by Grisoro Studio
The bespoke storage piece designed for the guest room exemplifies the power of custom design. For Gargano, “It serves as both storage and a pedestal for art. It’s always especially satisfying to see an original idea come to life.” This ensures that the homeowner can maximise every square foot while maintaining the clean architectural lines seen throughout the New York home.
A substantial pocket door system also connects the living room to the primary suite, and when fully opened, creates one continuous expanse punctuated by that remarkable wall of windows. Here, the primary closet and bathroom are connected through a generous hallway that channels natural light deep into previously dark spaces while maintaining absolute privacy.
The underlying architectural framework of this New York home provides the perfect foundation for this kind of growth. The addition of new art and furnishings without disrupting the essential character of the space. “We love to see our clients develop their passion for interiors and use it as a tool for expression,” enthuses Gargano. “Working on this refresh was so special and fun because it allows us to grow alongside our clients. That relationship is truly a dream for any designer.”
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Photography: David Mitchell
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