Tribeca Studio
Tribeca Studio
Building Type:
Postwar Building, Condominium
Square Foot
465
Scope of Work
Programming, Schematic Design, Design Development, Contract Documents, Contract Administration and Installation
Location:
Tribeca, New York City
Timeline:
4 Months, Completed 2023
Type:
Full Renovation
Designer:
Michelle Lau, Principal
Words by: Michelle Lau
Tasked with the renovation of a neglected postwar studio apartment in Tribeca, we were faced with a space untouched since 1990. Inherited and struggling with its upkeep, the second-generation owners sold the apartment in January 2023 to our client – the upkeep had been a challenge, resulting in a space that was in dire need of a refresh. We worked alongside and collaborated effectively with the client’s selected contractor, and together, breathed new life, into a once dreary space, adhering strictly to the project’s tight timeline.
Existing Floor Plan
Phase One
initial meeting, planning and scope of work
The initial phase involved a detailed determination of the Scope of Work, where we engaged in thoughtful discussions to understand and assess the client’s needs and objectives thoroughly. Navigating through the complexities of building rules and requirements, we delved into the Alteration Agreement, ensuring complete adherence to every stipulation contained within. With our client-centric approach, we facilitated the submission of the Alteration Agreement, ensuring it met the stringent standards for building approval.
Each step of this intricate process was marked by various site meetings, a testament to our commitment to open communication, collaborative efforts, and a tailored approach to meet our client’s unique needs with precision and excellence.
Phase Two
site meetings, concept design and project budgets
Phase two was characterized by regular site meetings, during which we unveiled our Concept Design, a synthesis of creativity and functionality tailored to the client’s specifications. We presented a comprehensive 2D floor plan, a visual representation that offered a glimpse into the transformed space, combining aesthetic appeal with practical utility.
An example of a page from the concept presentation (pg. 1 of 10)
Central to this phase was the establishment of the project budget, a pivotal step ensuring transparency and alignment of expectations. Every cost item, timeline, and allowance was meticulously detailed, providing a comprehensive overview as a roadmap to the project’s completion. This intricate detailing ensured each step was anchored in precision, accountability, and excellence, creating a seamless pathway from the project's inception to its completion.
Phase Three
Schematic Design & Design Development
During the Schematic Design phase, we showed a visual presentation detailing the layout and aesthetic elements of the space. We engage the client in discussions on furniture placement, ideal materials, and finishes, ensuring an optimal blend of space and functionality.
Detailed drawings and 3D renderings are reviewed to provide a comprehensive view of the final look. A specification book is issued outlining the interior finishes, fixtures, furniture, lighting and any other equiments selected for the project. Since this project has a tighter timeline. Both client and I decided to go with only in-stock products.
hand sketch exercise to communicate ideas and furniture placements
After making several adjustments to the floor plan to optimize the placement of kitchen appliances, plumbing fixtures, and furniture, we received the client’s approval to proceed. With the layout finalized, we transitioned into the Design Development phase. The client and I went on a shopping trip, and explored tile and wood showrooms, selecting the perfect materials to bring our plan to life.
a day of shopping with the client at wood & tile showrooms
Kitchen Study using 3D Modeling Software - SketchUp
We shared the design intent for the kitchen, focusing on maximizing storage space to ensure functionality and efficiency.
construction plan & elevation development using AutoCAD
The client was curious about accommodating two queen-size beds in the apartment. In our proposal, we positioned the beds to face the window, with headboards resting against a partition wall while the desks sit along the window wall for optimal use of space and lighting.
It is during this phase that we start to initiate contractor bids, a step that signifies the shift from the drawing board to the start of construction.
Phase Four
Contract Documents and Contract Administration
The renovation kicked into high gear over a span of 6 weeks. Following the demolition, our focus shifted to installing wood floors, framing, and blocking. The walls were then skim coated and painted, marking significant progress in the transformation of the space. Each step was executed with precision, ensuring quality results within the set timeframe.
site condition & pre-construction
demolition
skim coating
In a small New York City apartment, space is at a premium. This limitation requires a strategic approach to receiving goods; with most of the area occupied by tools, the working condition is constrained. We navigate this by phasing procurement, aligning with delivery schedules to manage space efficiently. In the above video, wall preparation involved skim coating to achieve a smooth finish before painting. Additionally, we improved the ceiling aesthetic by removing the popcorn texture and applying a skim coat for a refined look.
Ceilings are typically painted flat white, and there's practical reasoning behind this choice. Lighter colors, especially white, efficiently reflect ambient light, illuminating the room and creating a sense of spaciousness – it is the perfect choice for this small studio apartment. Additionally, the use of flat paint is strategic; its texture is adept at concealing minor imperfections, ensuring the ceiling presents a smooth and uniform appearance.
Kitchen Cabinetry & Stone Templating
To meet budget and timeline constraints, we opted for kitchen cabinetry from a local manufacturer based in Flushing, Queens which took about two weeks to manufacture. We chose a lighter oak wood laminate for the kitchen cabinets, complemented by a white quartz material used for both the backsplash and countertop. The stone templating was done a day after all the kitchen appliances and the kitchen cabinetry were installed.
… to be continued
We are working on phase 2 of the project!