# A Gramercy Park Apartment Reborn with Light Studio Rosenthal transforms a historic apartment into an international retreat. - **Source:** [Design MilkInterior Design Ideas for Your Modern Home | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/1484120b-1655-4db8-bcd5-582962f690ac) - **Published:** 2026-09-03 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/733aa7ec-ca62-4705-83e1-f49e945bd1d0 ## From Darkness to Light The apartment in New York's historic Gramercy Park neighborhood had become dark and enclosed due to partitions. Studio Rosenthal reverted to the original two-bedroom plan, expanding the living area and allowing natural light to flow. The clients, a couple primarily based in Australia who split their time across several countries, wanted a calm retreat from New York's intense energy. ## Material Choices New wood floors and trimless lighting create a serene atmosphere in the apartment. Whitewashed oak cabinetry, rope wall coverings, and a Lapitec kitchen island are among the materials used in the kitchen and living areas. In the primary bedroom, unfilled travertine shelving integrates with solid European oak cabinetry, which also conceals the apartment's HVAC units. ## Custom Design Pieces Among the pieces commissioned specifically for the space are a walnut entry console by Jacques Jarrige and a fully upholstered headboard for the primary bedroom designed by Eric Schmitt. The headboard features integrated sconces, and a custom straw marquetry coffee table completes the trio in the living room. These pieces enhance the apartment's personalized texture. ## International Influences The interior, with influences from Belgium, Brazil, and Japan, offers a refined hotel-like atmosphere. Works by Sheila Hicks, Jenny Holzer, and Rafi Ajl harmonize with the materials and custom furnishings. These artistic touches, combined with the architectural interventions, create a holistic experience. ## Functional Luxury The apartment was designed to suit the clients' international lifestyle. Every detail was chosen with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. For example, a sculptural vanity made of Pietra Gray marble adds a luxurious touch to the powder room while offering practical use. ## Architectural Interventions Studio Rosenthal improved the spatial flow by removing partitions in the apartment. These interventions allowed natural light to circulate more freely. Additionally, hidden storage solutions and integrated lighting contributed to transforming the apartment into a modern and functional living space. ## Material Harmony The materials used in the project form a cohesive palette. Natural materials like whitewashed oak, travertine, and Pietra Gray marble add warmth and an inviting feel to the space. Tactile details such as rope wall coverings create an interesting layer in the interior. ## Result and Impact Studio Rosenthal's interventions transformed the apartment from a dark and divided space into a bright and fluid living area. Designed to suit the clients' international lifestyle, the apartment offers a result that is both functional and aesthetically satisfying. This project proves that it's possible to create a modern, personalized living space within a historic building. ## 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._