Photographer's Loft

PrizeBronze in Interior Design / Apartments Interior
Firm LocationNew York, United States
CompanyDesai Chia Architecture PC
Lead ArchitectKatherine Chia
Design TeamKatherine Chia Arjun Desai
ClientWithheld Upon Owner's Request
Projecthttp://

This 5,000 SF loft was designed for a photographer who was seeking a serene live- work environment. A library/reception area immediately off of the entry vestibule allows her to meet with gallerists, present her work, and have her collection of research materials on hand for discussion. The reception area serves as a hinge for two distinct zones in the loft: the east zone flows directly into the 'private' domain of her photography studio and back to her private bedroom, while the south zone flows into the 'public' domain of her kitchen, dining, and living areas. A new wide plank oak wood floor connects all of these areas. The oak planks are used on the wall paneling and cabinetry, unifying the rooms with a warm texture. We crafted raw steel, aluminum, solid oak, and white resin design features throughout the loft. They are designed as minimal art moments as much as they are functional elements for storage, dining and work areas. For example, the steel kitchen island has ample storage while maintaining a sculptural presence in the room-- it serves to frame the kitchen in an artful way. The white resin work tables in the photography studio have a similar presence-- they are functional for work yet also visually compelling. The wall planes in the photography studio are cleverly sheathed in white magnetic panels to allow the client to display and reposition her work. The bathrooms were designed as an immersive chamber of light and striated stone, a soothing respite from the intensity of the city. The walls of the bathrooms are finished in waterproof resin which provide a singular surface that is both luminous and very easy to maintain. Custom resin sinks, shower areas, and niches for toiletries were fused into the bathrooms to create a seamless and fully integrated concept.