No strangers to the world of interior design, celebrity couple Robert and Cortney Novogratz have transformed a typical-looking apartment in New York City into a modern and inviting home for their family. With their eponymous studio, The Novogratz, they have designed and developed properties in Manhattan, Los Angeles, and beyond. Their stunning projects have been featured in design magazines, as well as on HGTV and Bravo, showcasing their busy family life raising seven children.
Washington Square Park NYU
Recently, the Novogratzs added a garden level apartment in a historic brownstone near Washington Square Park to their extensive property portfolio. Located in one of Manhattan's most culturally significant neighborhoods, this area is known for its creative energy. The couple's goal in renovating this sun-drenched apartment was to create an open, loft-like space for their adult children when they visit the city.
"We wanted to create the perfect guest space for our friends and family. The building has a rich historical background, so we aimed to preserve its integrity and beauty. This apartment functions as a guest house for us," recalls Robert Novogratz, co-founder and principal designer of The Novogratz.
Gut Renovation
The renovation of this apartment was a comprehensive process, involving the demolition of the existing structure down to the studs and foundation. "There wasn't much to salvage as the house was in a state of disrepair. However, the renovation went smoothly and quickly," Robert adds.
At 1,300 square feet (120 square meters), this self-contained apartment now boasts its own entrance and access to the garden. It features a spacious bedroom, bathroom, and even a laundry area for ultimate convenience.
Boffi Kitchen
Keeping the space clean and white, the couple installed white oak floors and a Boffi kitchen. They prioritized energy-efficient design and incorporated reclaimed wood throughout the apartment.
"We aimed to create a boutique hotel vibe in the guest apartment, similar to the concept we have used in designing boutique hotels in the past," recalls Robert. To achieve this, The Novogratz adorned the space with a mix of modern art and old-world design, sourcing vintage pieces from various places around the world.
Vintage Home Decor
The Novogratzs have a passion for collecting vintage items, which they source from all over the globe. They also find unique pieces in their own neighborhood. The apartment features bold artwork, including a picture of David Bowie by their friend and occasional collaborator Diego Uchitel. Additionally, the couple is very active on eBay, where they have access to one-of-a-kind finds.
Kitchen and Bedroom Highlights
Robert particularly enjoyed working on the kitchen, where he and Cortney curated pieces and added pops of color to brighten the space. The bedroom stands out with its vibrant and patterned wallpaper, complemented by an array of decorative pillows from Novogratz.
Landscape Design
Not only did the Novogratzs tackle the interior design of the apartment, but they also took on the role of landscape designers. Cortney personally selected and sourced plants from her favorite nursery near their house in the Berkshires.
Garden Apartment Airbnb
The Novogratzs are thrilled with the completed Garden Apartment, as it turned out exactly as they had hoped and planned. Their children and other visiting friends and family have thoroughly enjoyed their stays there.
In the future, they are considering listing the Garden Apartment on Airbnb for artists seeking a creatively inspiring place to stay in the city. This space, anchored in modern art and boasting an eclectic atmosphere, would be an ideal destination for those seeking a unique lodging experience.
With their expertise, passion for design, and commitment to creating beautiful spaces for their family and guests, Robert and Cortney Novogratz have truly transformed this New York City apartment into a stunning home.
