Formal Living Room • 1 W 72nd St #56, New York, NY 10023
This room now offers distinct experiences. A large sofa faces the windows, creating an open 'prospect' zone. A partial enclosure forms a secluded 'refuge' nook. These zones define primary comfort and outlook.
Unexpected elements punctuate the journey. A striking abstract sculpture sits off-axis. A short path of river stones leads to a spotlit specimen. A deeply grooved wall panel adds sudden texture.
This room offers defined comfort and unexpected visual journeys.
Design Philosophy
This design establishes clear 'prospect' and 'refuge' zones. The prospect offers expansive views and open seating. The refuge provides a secluded, intimate enclosure. Playful digressions interrupt these primary functions with moments of discovery.
Spatial Narrative
Your eye first travels to the expansive window views from the prospect zone. It then discovers the off-axis sculpture's unusual form, or the spotlit specimen at the end of the stone path. The journey concludes in the quiet refuge nook.
Light Study
Morning light streams directly into the prospect zone, illuminating the urban view. This direct light makes the river stones sparkle briefly. Evening light deepens shadows around the sculpture and softens inside the felt nook.
Living Vignette
You lean back on the low sofa, observing city movement. A soft murmur from the felt nook signals someone reading.
Material Palette
Smooth, light-toned plaster: This plaster feels cool to the touch and retains its clean finish over time.
Dark, sound-absorbing felt: This felt creates deep enclosure, softening acoustics and maintaining its rich color over time.
Patinated brass or steel: This metal presents a unique texture, developing richer character and depth with age.
Polished river stones: These stones offer a smooth, cool surface and create a distinct sound when walked upon, maintaining their luster.
Deeply grooved, dark-stained oak: This oak provides rich tactile and visual interruption, gaining deeper patina over decades.
