# A Light-Filled Transformation in Gramercy Park Studio Rosenthal converts a historic apartment into an international living space. - **Source:** [Design MilkArchitecture, Architectural Designs, and House Designs | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/5d8362a6-0dbb-41cc-9b0e-4e8cac0c9318) - **Published:** 2026-09-03 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/2a76c071-9fd1-43c9-8686-f67f2c2a904e ## From Darkness to Light This apartment in NYC's historic Gramercy Park neighborhood suffered from limited natural light due to partitions. Studio Rosenthal restored the original two-bedroom layout, expanding living areas and improving light flow. The redesign catered to a couple based in Australia who desired a serene retreat during their part-time stays in New York. The space now serves as a functional oasis for global citizens. ## Material Choices Whitewashed oak cabinetry, rope wall coverings, and a Lapitec kitchen island created a calm atmosphere. Unfilled travertine shelves in the primary bedroom integrated with solid oak cabinets hiding HVAC units. A sculptural vanity in Pietra Gray marble adorned the powder room. Throughout the apartment, trimless lighting and new wood flooring established visual harmony. ## Custom Design Pieces Three bespoke furniture pieces defined the space: Jacques Jarrige's walnut entry console, Eric Schmitt's fully upholstered headboard with integrated sconces, and a straw marquetry coffee table in the living room. These elements enhanced the boutique hotel ambiance. Artworks by Sheila Hicks, Jenny Holzer, and Rafi Ajl added layered sophistication to the interiors. ## Global Influences Belgian, Brazilian, and Japanese design influences created a refined atmosphere extending from entry to primary bedroom. These cultural references mirrored the clients' international lifestyle. The combination of material selections, custom furnishings, and architectural interventions transformed a standard NYC apartment into a distinctive living space. ## Functional Aesthetics The project balanced beauty with practicality. For instance, the primary bedroom's oak cabinets concealed technical equipment while maintaining aesthetics. The kitchen island's extension into living areas provided spatial continuity without functional compromise. This approach demonstrated efficient use of limited square footage in urban environments. ## Light Management A key success was optimizing natural light distribution throughout the apartment. Removing partitions expanded living areas, while trimless lighting complemented daylight. White surfaces and light-colored materials amplified brightness, creating an oasis within New York's dense urban fabric. These strategies maximized the perception of space. ## Spatial Flow Studio Rosenthal improved circulation by reverting to the original floor plan. Transitions between living areas were defined through material and color contrasts. For example, continuous Lapitec surfaces between kitchen and living areas maintained visual flow without creating barriers. This approach enhanced the sense of space in compact square footage. ## Boutique Hotel Aesthetic The project achieved a luxury boutique hotel atmosphere through custom furniture, curated artworks, and a restrained material palette. This aesthetic reflected the clients' global travel experiences. The apartment became more than a residence - a living installation enriched with cultural references. Studio Rosenthal's interventions added a contemporary layer to Gramercy Park's historic fabric. ## Sources covering this story - https://design-milk.com/studio-rosenthal-gramercy-park-apartment/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._