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Contemporary Loft Design in Manhattan
Barrow Street Loft
This former warehouse was built in 1920 as a manufacturing building, used as a herring canning factory among other uses, was converted to a coop in 1980s. Our project site is the home of the architect Sigh Winthrop, who designed the coop conversion, and we paid homage to our colleague by designing an artful residence. Sigh lived in this apartment for 40 years, custom designing it to his taste. Our mid-century modern loving clients purchased this time capsule and tasked us with modernizing and making space for their 4-year-old daughter (who loves loft beds) and two college-age daughters visiting regularly.
We used local and recycled materials such as walnut veneered plywood, recycled laminate boards, renewable felt panels, glass bricks, handmade ceramic tiles, and concrete-textured plaster. A retro selection of light fixtures and furniture adds sustainable warmth and comfort.
In short, our Barrow Street Loft design blends the spirit of a CBGB-era artist loft with contemporary formalism with a nod to mid-century modern aesthetic.
The challenge was to add rooms, but not to lose the spacious loft feeling. We designed a flexible space with a loft bed and a hybrid guest room. Additionally, we offset the walls from the ceiling by installing transom windows that allow space to flow while letting air and light into the rooms.
A layered organization, combining open communal spaces with efficient vertical circulation. Custom-built elements, integrated storage, and thoughtful spatial planning create a flexible environment that supports both everyday family life and changing future needs.
This custom-designed loft maximizes functionality within a compact footprint. The elevated elevated platform creates a playful and private sleeping area for the youngest family member, while the space below accommodates a built-in desk, storage, and flexible everyday use. Integrated millwork, concealed storage solutions, and a carefully organized layout ensure the room can comfortably adapt to visiting guests while maintaining a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
The central stair acts as both a circulation element and an architectural feature, connecting the home's levels while bringing light and openness into the core of the plan. Carefully integrated storage and built-in furnishings maximize functionality, reinforcing the project's emphasis on efficient use of space and family-oriented living.
Principal Architect
Selim Vural, AIA
Project team
Efecan Zeybek
Ceren Kalayci
Year
2026
Phase
Completed
Art Director / Ceramics
Kerry Robertson
Photographs
TBD
General Contractor
Don Kwok & Crew
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